Tata Institute of Social Sciences

History

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences was established in the year 1936 as the Sir Dorabji Tata School of Social Work. It was the vision of Dr. Clifford Manshardt to open an institution of national stature that would not only engage in continuous research of Indian social issues but also impart quality education to bring out trained human power. With the effort of Sir Dorabji Tata Trust, social research and social work education in India saw a major change and improvement. Tata Institute of Social received its present name in the year 1944. 1964 was an important year for the institute as it was recognized as a Deemed University by the University Grants Commission of India. From its inception till date, the institute has constantly developed its educational programs as well as its structure in keeping with the changing social system in India. One major point to note here is that although the institute started as an institution of social work, it went far beyond and deeper to understand the social needs of the country.

The Tata Institute of Social Science is different in its own way. From its very inception it never limited itself to a conventional institute, rather with each passing year it has diversified its activities to promote and work for a society that is participatory, equal and thus, sustainable. The Institute has also made important contributions in several areas like education, human rights, health, industrial relations and communal harmony in both rural and urban areas. Specific focus of the institute is on the marginalized, vulnerable and deprived sections of society, like unorganized labour, Dalits, children, tribals and women.

In the seven decades of its existence, T.I.S.S. has truly carved out a niche for itself in the field of applied social science research and human service professional education. This is very much evident in the recognition that it has got from different ministries of the Government of India and also various reputed international agencies such as the United Nations.

Programs of Study at Tata Institute of Social Sciences

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

  • B A (Hons) in Social Work

POST GRADUATE PROGRAMS

  • Master of Arts in Development Studies
  • Master of Arts in Disability Rehabilitation
  • Master of Arts / Science in Disaster Management
  • Master of Arts in Education (Elementary)
  • Master of Arts in Globalisation and Labour
  • Master of Health Administration
  • Master of Hospital Administration
  • Master of Arts in Human Resources Management and Labour Relations
  • Master of Arts in Media and Cultural Studies
  • Master of Arts in Media and Cultural Studies
  • Master of Arts in Public Health
  • Master of Social Entrepreneurship
  • Master of Arts in Social Work

M.PHIL.–PH.D. PROGRAMMES

The institute offers integrated M-Phil-Ph.D. Program in the following disciplines

  • Health Systems Studies,
  • Management and Labour Studies,
  • Social Sciences, and
  • Social Work

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Deriving from the vision, the Tata Institute of Social Sciences is guided by the following principles:

  • Appreciation of and respect for freedom of expression and cultural, ideological and intellectual diversity
  • Equal opportunities for all and non-discrimination on grounds of caste, class, gender, sexual preference, religion, and disability;
  • Accountability and transparency in all work matters
  • Decision-making in management and organisational processes, which is collective, participatory and non-hierarchical
  • Pedagogy which is participatory and experiential, fostering dialogue, mutual learning and critical reflection
  • Emphasis on rigour, creativity and innovation in academic activities
  • Recognition of the synergy resulting from teamwork, including multi-disciplinary perspectives and trans-disciplinary collaborations
  • Creation of an enabling environment that fosters teamwork, cooperation and mutual support
  • Development of interlinkages across teaching, research and extension
  • Fostering of a spirit of self-reflection and critical appreciation

OBJECTIVES

In pursuit of its vision and mission the Tata Institute of Social Sciences will:

  • Organise teaching in the areas of social work, social sciences, human resources management, health systems and allied fields;
  • Conduct research to promote the development of knowledge in the areas of study at the Institute and to contribute to legislation, policies and programmes
  • Accountability and transparency in all work matters
  • Develop and disseminate knowledge through print, audio-visual and electronic media and various indigenous forms
  • Conduct training programmes for continuing education
  • Undertake innovative field action projects in relevant areas, to develop new approaches and strategies
  • Engage in relief, rehabilitation and development initiatives to address human suffering caused by natural and human-made disasters
  • Network with state and non-state agencies and other academic institutions, people's groups and movements; and
  • Undertake advocacy and consultancy on relevant issues