Overview

The programme focuses on the role and tasks performed by the Social Worker in the execution of his/her duties on a daily basis. It attempts to create first-hand experiences in the classroom by the intensive use of examples, simulations and case studies so as to illustrate the application of concepts, techniques and practices in the real situation.

Since Social Work consists of basic approaches in case work/studies, the research methodology course and the communications course develop reporting skills. Students will also undergo an attachment period where they will be engaged in the practical orientation of the programme.

Objectives

  • To develop the consciousness and enhance the professionalism of persons currently employed in the Social Services as well as those who aspire to become Social Workers.
  • To sensitize Social Workers and other interested persons to the scope, theoretical underpinnings, implications and practices of Social Work in the Caribbean with special reference to St. Lucia.
  • To provide the knowledge, skills and attitudes required for a career in Social Work.
  • To enable practicing social workers and other interested persons to obtain formal training and recognized certification.
  • To present a teaching/learning strategy which employs a broad range of assessment, intervention and preventative measures in dealing with children and youth with behavioural problems.
  • To expose students to problem identification, community participation and the planning processes at community level.

Entry Requirements

  1. Students should have already completed the Social Work Certificate Programme.
  2. Mature applicants, (at least 22 years old) with a minimum of 5 years working experience in a Social Service Agency, may be considered for admission, but in some cases will be required to take ACCESS courses to make up for their deficiency in certain areas.
  3. All applicants must undergo an interview to ascertain their experience, disposition and attitude as well as prior learning on the basis of which exemptions may be granted.
    • The purpose of the interview is to acknowledge the student’s qualifications and past experience and on the basis of these to grant credits for (or exemptions form) certain courses listed in the programme. It is to the student’s advantage to be well provided with all necessary documentation – (certificates, transcripts, and if possible, course descriptions of past qualifications and recommendations from present and past employers) so that an accurate assessment of your qualifications and recommendations (from present and past employers) as well as your experience may be made.
  4. One of the qualities expected of applicants is that they should have good interpersonal skills and an earnest desire to help other people.

Programme Summary

The part-time Social Work Associate Degree Programme comprises twenty-three (23) courses (8 core courses, 13 professional courses and 2 electives).

Please Note: Courses marked with the asterisk (*) are those already offered at the Certificate level.

  • Communication Studies I *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Communication Studies II
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Caribbean Issues and Perspectives
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Computer Applications
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Economics
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Statistics I
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Research Methods I *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Research Methods II
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Psychology I *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Psychology II *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Introduction to Social Psychology *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Introduction to Abnormal Psychology
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Introduction to Sociology *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Social Work - Theory & Practice I *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Social Work - Theory & Practice II *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Social Work with Individuals & Families *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Social Policy, Agency & Administration *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Programme Planning & Implementation
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Human Skills
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Practicum I *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Practicum II
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Introduction to Criminology *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Social Work in Gerontology *
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Working Adolescents
    3 Credits 48 Hours
  • Introduction to Substance Abuse
    3 Credits 48 Hours