SMC INC. BSSW GRADUATES: FROM COMPETENCIES TO EMPLOYABILITY

Abstract

In today’s rapidly evolving job market, the concept of employability is undergoing a significant transformation. As industries continue to adapt to emerging challenges and innovations, employers increasingly value candidates who possess a diverse set of competencies beyond traditional academic qualifications. In this context, educational institutions play a crucial role in preparing students for the workforce by aligning their curricula with current industry demands. Such alignment not only facilitates a smoother transition into professional roles but also enhances students' competencies, improves their employment prospects, and supports sustained career development. The study investigated the effectiveness of the SMCIQC-BSSW program in preparing graduates for employment, with particular emphasis on competencies and overall employability. Data were gathered through survey questionnaires to capture graduates’ perceptions of their preparedness, while interviews were conducted to gain deeper insight into their experiences. All research procedures adhered to ethical standards and were conducted in compliance with the provisions of the Data Privacy Act. The respondents, aged 20 to 55 years, were graduates of the SMCIQC BSSW program from 2018 to 2023. The majority (62.5%) were permanently employed, with 59.4% working in government agencies, serving in their roles for one to nine years. Graduates reported that course materials, examinations, social work modules, and faculty mentoring delivered both online and face-to-face effectively prepared them for employment. Field instruction and case management were identified as the program’s strongest components in developing their professional competencies. Moreover, the integration of Ignacian core values particularly faith was found to have significantly contributed to their professional growth. Graduates also demonstrated strong proficiency in essential social work skills, including interviewing, data gathering, assessment, documentation, resource mobilization, facilitating referrals, and networking. The researchers observed that SMCIQC BSSW graduates demonstrated a strong foundation in social work principles and values, as reflected in their high-performance ratings. Their educational background particularly the field instruction component of the SMCIQC program was found to have effectively prepared them for entry into the workforce. The study concluded that St. Mary’s College, Inc.’s BSSW program successfully equips its graduates for professional practice in the field of social work.