Effectiveness of admission criteria in predicting student academic performance in a bachelor of social work program

Abstract

Objective: Explore whether admission criteria were associated with academic performance for a Bachelor of Social Work program. Methodology: Correlations and regression models were used to determine associations between admission criteria and performance of 371 students. One-way ANOVAs and ttests were used to examine potential differences between degree programs, cohorts, and raters. Results: Previous academic standing was a consistent predictor for the First Degree program; however, varied by pedagogical area and cohort for the Second Degree. An admissions test was more predictive for the First Degree than the Second Degree. Experience ratings were not an adequate predictor for the First Degree, but were for the Second Degree. The predictability of suitability ratings varied by program and pedagogical area. Conclusion: Admission criteria are predictive of performance, particularly through multivariate analyses. Differences in the predictability of admission criteria reiterate the need for a varied admissions model. In addition, supports must be available to all students.