THE MOTIVATIONS OF BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SOCIAL WORK STUDENTS IN TAKING UP THE COURSE

Abstract

Social work is a profession committed to promoting social change, social justice, and empowerment, addressing pressing issues such as poverty, discrimination, and inequality. In the Philippine context, social workers play a crucial role in advocating for marginalized communities and addressing various social challenges. This study examines the motivations of students enrolling in the Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) program, with the goal of enhancing recruitment strategies and fostering the development of future social workers. The findings offer valuable insights into enhancing student engagement, refining academic curricula, and creating a more supportive and responsive learning environment. This study employed a quantitative descriptive research design to analyze students’ motivations for enrolling in the BSSW program without manipulating any variables. A pre-test questionnaire was used to collect demographic data and assess students’ familiarity with the program. The research focused on BSSW students at St. Mary’s College, Inc. (SMCIQC), Quezon City, with respondents selected from all year levels through non-probability convenience sampling. The study adhered strictly to ethical standards and data privacy protocols to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the collected data. Survey responses from 41 BSSW students revealed that most participants learned about the program through friends and personal connections, rather than through social media platforms. The strongest motivations for enrolling included opportunities for hands-on fieldwork, the structured curriculum, and the availability of financial aid. A significant number of students relied on scholarships, emphasizing the critical role of financial support in pursuing their studies. Additional motivating factors included a commitment to social justice values, prior volunteer experience, and interest in professional opportunities within the field. The reputation of the BSSW program, faculty engagement, and career guidance were also key influences on student interest. To strengthen future recruitment efforts, the study recommends enhancing social media outreach, expanding scholarship programs, and building community partnerships. The study highlights the influence of both intrinsic and extrinsic factors in students' decisions to pursue a career in social work. Personal networks and real-life experiences play a significant role in shaping these career choices. To enhance recruitment, schools are encouraged to promote volunteerism, expand fieldwork opportunities, and support advocacy initiatives. Sustaining student motivation can be achieved by strengthening scholarships, developing mentorship programs, and fostering peer engagement. St. Mary’s College Inc., Quezon City (SMCIQC) should further optimize its digital outreach strategies and regularly update the curriculum to align with the evolving demands of the social work profession. Moreover, collaborations with government agencies and NGOs are recommended to increase financial aid and create more professional opportunities for aspiring social workers.