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UNIVERSITY COLLEGECAYMAN ISLANDS
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Associate of Arts in Social Work

The Associate of Arts in Social Work at UCCI offers a comprehensive introduction to social work theory, practice, and human services.

The Associate of Arts in Social Work at UCCI provides a strong foundation in social work principles, human behavior, and community engagement. Designed for students interested in careers in social services, community development, or further studies in social work and related fields, this programme equips learners with essential theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Through a combination of coursework and supervised practicum experiences, students gain hands-on exposure to real-world social service settings. Graduates are well prepared to transfer into bachelor’s degree programmes or pursue entry-level roles within social service agencies, non-profit organizations, and community support sectors.

Key Facts about the Programme

Programme Duration

2 years (full-time)

Semesters Offered

Typically available in Fall and Spring semesters.

Total Credits Required

66 credits

Accreditation

Recognized, with transferability to relevant degree programmes locally and internationally.

Programme Requirements

Prerequisites: High school-level courses in math and science, particularly in biology or chemistry, are recommended.Mathematics IGCE/CXC at grade A* - C/1 – 3.
Degree Plan

Degree Plan

Year 1 - Fall

  • ENG 101 College Composition I (3 credits)
  • COL 101 College & Employability Skills (3 credits)
  • SOC 101 Introduction to Sociology (3 credits)
  • SWK 101 Introduction to Social Work (3 credits)
  • SWK 192 Ethics for the Human Services (3 credits)

Year 1 - Spring

  • ENG 102 College Composition II Prerequisite: ENG 101 (3 credits)
  • PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology (3 credits)
  • SWK 105 Integrative Seminar in Social Work Theory, Policy & Practice I Prerequisite: SWK 101 (3 credits)
  • SWK 106 Social Work Practicum I Prerequisite: SWK 101 (4 credits)

Year 1 Summer

  • COM 110 Computer Applications in Business (3 credits)
  • PSY 201 Developmental Psychology Prerequisite: PSY 101 (3 credits)

Year 2 - Fall

  • ENV 105 Sustainability, Energy, & Waste Management (3 credits)
  • SWK 203 Law of Social Work (3 credits)
  • SWK 204 Social Casework Prerequisites: SWK 101, SWK 105, & SWK 106 (3 credits)
  • SOC 203 Social Policy in the Caribbean & Global South (3 credits)

Year 2 - Spring

  • MAT 111 Introduction to Statistics (3 credits)
  • SWK 202 Social Work Theory & Practice with Groups Prerequisite: SWK 204 (3 credits)
  • SWK 205 Integrative Seminars in Social Work Theory, Policy & Practice II Prerequisite: SWK 105 (3 credits)
  • SWK 206 Social Work Practicum II Prerequisite: SWK 106 (4 credits)

Year 2 Summer

  • PSY 350 Abnormal Psychology (3 credits)
  • SPA 101 Introduction to Spanish I / Lab (4 credits)

Core Courses

SWK 101

Introduction to Social Work

SWK 101

Integrative Seminar in Social Work Theory, Policy & Practice I

SWK 106

Social Work Practicum I

SWK 192

Ethics for the Human Services

SWK 203

Law of Social Work

SWK 204

Social Casework

SWK 202

Social Work Theory & Practice with Groups

SWK 205

InIntegrative Seminar in Social Work Theory, Policy & Practice

SWK 206

Social Work Practicum II

Additional Requirements

Social Science Requirement

Two Social Science Requirements: Each 3 credits, chosen with advisor approval.

Electives & Future Study Options

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Future Study Options

Graduates of the Associate of Science in Sciences at UCCI have several paths for further study within UCCI’s offerings, as well as through international transfer programs. UCCI provides bachelor's degree programs that align with health, environmental, and biological sciences, allowing students to build upon their associate’s degree with specialized study:

Future Jobs & Salary Scales

Role: Assists licensed social workers and human services professionals by supporting case management activities, client intake, documentation, referrals, and delivery of basic social services to individuals and families.

Salary Range:

  • Entry-level: $35,000–$45,000 USD
  • Mid-career: $45,000–$55,000 USD
  • Advanced: $60,000+ USD

Role: Supports community programmes by coordinating outreach activities, engaging community members, assisting with workshops and events, and promoting access to social services and support programmes.

Salary Range:

  • Entry-level: $38,000–$45,000 USD
  • Mid-career: $48,000–$55,000 USD
  • Advanced: $60,000+ USD

Role: Supports caseworkers by maintaining client records, assisting with assessments, coordinating services, and helping monitor client progress under supervision.

Salary Range:

  • Entry-level: $35,000–$43,000 USD
  • Mid-career: $45,000–$55,000 USD
  • Advanced: $60,000+ USD

Role: Assists with the planning, coordination, and delivery of social service programmes, including data collection, reporting, client support, and programme evaluation.

Salary Range:

  • Entry-level: $37,000–$45,000 USD
  • Mid-career: $48,000–$55,000 USD
  • Advanced: $60,000+ USD

Role: Works with children and adolescents in community, school, or residential settings, providing mentoring, behavioural support, and life-skills development under supervision.

Salary Range:

  • Entry-level: $34,000–$42,000 USD
  • Mid-career: $45,000–$52,000 USD
  • Advanced: $55,000+ USD

Potential Employers in the Cayman Islands

Employment Sectors & Organizations

  • Department of Children and Family Services
    Roles in child protection, family support services, community assistance, and case support.
  • Cayman Islands Health Services Authority
    Opportunities in medical social work support, patient advocacy, mental health services, and community health programmes.
  • Ministry of Investment, Innovation and Social Development
    Positions supporting social policy implementation, public welfare programmes, community development, and social research.
  • Cayman Islands Red Cross
    Opportunities in community outreach, disaster preparedness and response, humanitarian aid, and social assistance programmes.
  • Non-Governmental and Faith-Based Organizations
    Roles supporting vulnerable populations through counselling support, outreach services, youth programmes, and advocacy initiatives.