Bachelor of Arts in Family Sciences - Social Services Management

Program Overview

Aligned with the UAE's National Quality of Life Strategy, this program is designed to cultivate highly skilled social services professionals. By fostering a deep understanding of ethical principles and administrative systems, graduates will be well-equipped to contribute to the development of a thriving society.

Program Mission

To produce highly qualified social services management professionals capable of actively contributing to community development by providing research-based and consultative solutions.

Program Learning Outcomes

The program includes 6 learning outcomes aligned with the UAE's National Qualifications Framework (QFE Level 7)which are categorized as: Knowledge (K), Skills (S), and Competencies: Autonomy and Responsibility (AR), Role in Context (RC), and Self-Development (SD). These outcomes can be summarized as follow:

The program aims to develop graduates who can:

  1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of theoretical concepts related to social service management.
  2. Apply various practical skills relevant to the social work profession.
  3. Implement diverse administrative concepts and skills in various social service organizations.
  4. Adhere to ethical standards and professional regulations, while considering the administrative systems of UAE social institutions.
  5. Continuously develop professional skills and competencies through practice and supervision, and innovate new approaches to address societal challenges.
  6. Apply research skills to identify solutions and leverage best practices in social service management, aligned with organizational values and principles.

Program Structure

The Social Services Management program is designed to seamlessly blend theoretical knowledge with practical application, empowering graduates to excel in various social service settings. By fostering a strong foundation in both academic and professional competencies, the program prepares students to assume leadership roles within social service organizations and contribute significantly to the broader community.

The program consists of 42 credit hours, encompassing a diverse range of courses that cover general education, college-wide requirements, and specialized topics within the field of social services management.

Program structure is as follows:

Course Type Credit Hours
General Education Courses (30 Credit Hours)
(a) Compulsory General Education Courses 30 Credit Hours
College Courses (36 Credit Hours)
(a) Compulsory College Courses 30 Credit Hours
(b) Elective College Courses 6 Credit Hours
Major Courses
(a) Compulsory Major Courses
54
(b) Elective Major Courses 6
Total Credit Hours 126

1. General Education Courses (30 Credit Hours)

Course Code Course Name Credit Hours Prerequisites
HUM-1613 Islamic Studies 3 None
COM-1153 Composition Arabic 3 None
COM-1113 Academic Writing 1 3 None
LSS-1723 Introduction to Psychology 3 None
LSS-1733 Introduction to Sociology 3 None
HUM-1463 UAE Society 3 None
LSS-1463 Ethics and Citizenship Rights 3 None
ICT-1313 Introduction to Information Technology 3 None
LSS-1473 Logic and Critical Thinking 3 None
LSS-2483 Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Sustainability 3 None

2. College Core Courses (36 Credit Hours)

Compulsory College Courses (30 Credit Hours)

Course Code Course Name Credit Hours Prerequisites
FS-2000 Human Rights 3 None
FS-2010 Family Resource Management 3 None
FS-2020 Child Development and Care 3 None
FS-2030 Family Sociology 3 LSS-1733
FS-2040 Developmental Psychology 3 LSS-1723
FS-2050 Introduction to Family Jurisprudence 3 None
FS-2060 Introduction to Food and Nutrition Sciences 3 None
FS-2070 Family Healthcare 3 None
FS-2110 Introduction to Statistics 3 None
FS-2120 Social Research Methods 3 None

Elective College Courses (6 Credit Hours)

Course Code Course Name Credit Hours Prerequisites
FS-2080 Introduction to Jurisprudence and Principles 3 None
FS-2100 Introduction to the Quran and Sunnah 3 None
HM-2020 Home Interior Design 3 None

3. Major Core Courses (60 Credit Hours)

Compulsory Major Courses (54 Credit Hours)

Course Code Course Name Credit Hours Prerequisites
Service 3000 Introduction to Social service 3 None
Managemnt 3000 Principles of Management and Business 3 None
Service 3010 Special Need Care 3 None
Service 3020 Organizational Sociology 3 None
Service 3030 Comprehensive Social Protection 3 Service 3000
Management 3010 Human Resource Management 3 Managemnt 3000
Management 3020 Public Relation Management 3 Managemnt 3000
Management 3030 Service Marketing 3 None
Service 4000 Social Planning and development 3 Service 3030
Management 4000 Small Project Management. 3 None
Management 4010 Social Institutions management 3 Managemnt 3000
Management 4020 Project and social program management 3 Management 4000
HR 3150 Family Counseling and Reform 3 None
Counselling 3090 Educational Psychology 3 None
Counselling 3070 Social and Family Issues 3 None
HR 4040 Labour Law and Social Legislation 3 None
Graduation 4000 Practical Training – Internship 3 75 credit hours
Graduation 4010 Project Management 3 105 credit hours

Elective Major Courses (6 Credit Hours)

Course Code Course Name Credit Hours Prerequisites
Managemnt3040 Fundamental of financial Management 3 Managemnt 3000
Counselling 3010 Introduction in Mental Health 3 None
Service 3040 Volunteer Work 3 None
Service 3050 Youth care services Management 3 None
Service 4010 Social Service Professional Intervention 3 None

FS-2000 Human Rights (3-0-3)

This course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand human rights at both international and national levels. It explores the historical development and philosophical foundations of human rights, as well as the evolution of international human rights law within the framework of the United Nations. The course focuses on analytical methodologies and discussions on contemporary challenges in the field. By the end of the course, students are expected to be able to analyze legal texts related to human rights within local and international legislative contexts.

Prerequisites: None

FS-2010 Family Resource Management (3-0-3)

This course provides students with fundamental concepts of family resource management, including its types, characteristics, and applications within the family context. It covers the basics of financial management, its various sources, and its impact on the family. The course employs lectures, group discussions, interactive workshops, and practical exercises to enable students to prepare family budgets and manage economic affairs effectively. It emphasizes the application of administrative processes within the family as a social institution and aims to develop planning, organizational, and decision-making skills in accordance with gender roles.

Prerequisites: None

 

FS-2020 Child Development and Care (3-0-3)

This course equips students with theoretical knowledge and practical approaches essential for child care and upbringing. It covers the scientific and conceptual foundations of child development from social, psychological, educational, and Islamic perspectives. The course introduces key concepts for child care in early childhood settings, addressing physical, psychological, mental, and social dimensions. Students learn to apply information-gathering techniques and assess child development in various domains. Through interactive lectures, case studies, and practical workshops, students gain the ability to understand the principles of child upbringing and accurately evaluate growth across different developmental dimensions.

Prerequisites: None

 

FS-2030 Family Sociology (3-0-3)

This course examines the family as a fundamental social institution within society. It explores theoretical perspectives on the family, including various definitions, family structures, and their roles in socialization processes and adaptation to societal changes. Through discussions, research projects, and field visits to social institutions, the course addresses contemporary challenges faced by families in modern societies. By the end of the course, students are expected to professionally approach and address family-related issues in their personal and professional lives.

Prerequisites: Introduction to Sociology (LSS-1733)

 

FS-2040 Developmental Psychology (3-0-3)

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of developmental principles across the human lifespan, focusing on the characteristics, demands, and underlying causes of growth at various stages. It examines foundational theories explaining developmental processes from childhood to old age. The course employs interactive methodologies such as case studies, psychological analyses, discussions, and practical applications to foster a deep understanding of psychological and social changes throughout life. By the end of the course, students are expected to apply this understanding to enhance quality of life through informed behavior guidance.

Prerequisites: Introduction to Psychology (LSS-1723)

 

FS-2110 Introduction to Statistics (3-0-3)

This course equips students with a strong foundation in statistical principles, focusing on descriptive, inferential, and analytical statistical concepts relevant to family studies and social research. The course combines theoretical instruction with practical application, utilizing statistical software packages to facilitate data entry and analysis. By the end of the course, students are expected to develop the ability to critically interpret statistical results and make informed, evidence-based decisions.

Prerequisites: None

 

 M-3000 Introduction to Business Management (3-0-3)

This course provides the students with a thorough grounding in the fundamental principles of business administration. By exploring the evolution of management thought and delving into core managerial processes such as planning, organizing, leading, and controlling, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of the business world. The course will also cover decision-making and problem-solving strategies and organizational structure analysis. Through lectures, discussion groups, workshops, and case studies, students will develop the ability to address managerial challenges and adapt to contemporary business trends. 

Prerequisites: None

FS-2050 Introduction to Family Jurisprudence (3-0-3)

This course introduces students to key concepts and terminologies in Islamic family jurisprudence derived from religious sources. It traces the historical development of Islamic jurisprudence over the ages and its progression through various stages. The course highlights the contributions of major juristic schools, particularly in the family domain, and examines the role of Islamic jurisprudence and legislative frameworks in regulating family relationships. Students engage in critical discussions, interactive lectures, and case studies to analyze family issues from an Islamic jurisprudential perspective. By the end of the course, students will be able to understand fundamental jurisprudential concepts, analyse the role of Islamic jurisprudence in organizing family relations, and critically evaluate family issues from an Islamic perspective.

Prerequisites: None

FS-2060 Introduction to Food and Nutrition (3-0-3)
This course introduces students to fundamental concepts in food science and nutrition, including the composition, functions, and key sources of nutrients, as well as their relationship with human health. The course emphasizes the principles of planning balanced and healthy meals, food preservation methods, and factors affecting food safety. Students will learn to apply standards for preparing healthy meals based on age and health requirements. Through interactive lectures, workshops, and practical exercises, students will gain the ability to design balanced and healthy meal plans, analyse factors affecting food safety, and implement standards that meet the nutritional needs of various groups.
Prerequisites: None

FS-2070 Family Healthcare (3-0-3)

This course aims to familiarize students with the principles and foundations of healthcare, focusing on safety standards and practices in promoting a healthy living environment. It covers the essentials of comprehensive care, quality, and safety in delivering healthcare services, and improving the overall quality of healthcare. The course utilizes diverse teaching strategies, educational activities, and practical applications, including field visits. By the end of the course, students are expected to be able to apply these principles effectively across different healthcare contexts.
Prerequisites: None

 

FS-2120 Social Research Methods (3-0-3)

This course equips students with essential tools and skills for conducting high-quality social research. It covers the process of selecting research topics, formulating research questions in accordance with scientific methodologies, and gathering data from diverse sources. Students will learn to analyze data using specialized statistical software. The course incorporates a variety of teaching methods, including the analysis of research papers and practical exercises. By the end of the course, students are expected to develop an understanding of social phenomena and contribute to solving social problems through the production of new knowledge.

Prerequisites: None

 

Management 4000 – Small Projects management (3-0-3)

This course aims to introduce students to the concepts and fundamentals associated with small-project management. By covering topics related to entrepreneurship, project design principles, analysis of economic and marketing factors that influence project success, the course also explores strategies for idea generation, evaluation of various business models, and an examination of proposed financing solutions. The course is delivered through lectures, interactive workshops, and brainstorming sessions, contributing to the enhancement of students' ability to design innovative and implementable small-project business models that contribute to community development and economic growth.

Prerequisites: None

 

Service 3000 – Introduction to Social Service (3-0-3)

This course provides an introduction of the concepts and theories of social service. With a focus on applying theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, the course will explore case studies and contemporary challenges. Students will acquire the necessary skills to work with individuals, families, and communities within the cultural context of the United Arab Emirates, adhering to the profession's ethical principles and demonstrating a deep understanding of cultural diversity"

Prerequisites: None

 

Management 3010- Human Recourse Management (3-0-3)

The aim of this course is to provide students with the recent developments and comprehensive theories in Human Resource Management (HRM). It aims to develop knowledge and skill in the functional areas of the profession particularly staffing, human resource development, performance management, compensation, safety and health, and employee and labour relation. Through case studies, simulations, and seminar, students will develop the skills needed to address real-world HR challenges.

Pre-Requisite(s): M3000 Principle of Business Management

 

Service 3020: Organizational Sociology (3-0-3)

This course provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles and concepts underlying social and organizational structures, exploring the historical evolution of social organization, organizational behaviour, key theoretical frameworks, and the psychological dynamics within organizations with a particular focus on the UAE context. Through interactive discussions, lectures, and group projects and case studies  will enhance  their ability to critically analyse social organization, evaluate organizational conflicts, and strengthen leadership and effective communication skills.

Prerequisites: None

 

Service 3030: Comprehensive Social Protection (3-0-3)

This course aims to equip students with concepts related to social protection, its objectives, and pillars, as well as social protection policies, types, and processes. It also covers issues of abuse and violence and the role of social protection, and the management of services and policies for protecting vulnerable groups (the poor, elderly, children, workers and women). The course highlights the relationship between social protection and sustainable development. It relies on lectures, discussions, and practical case studies. The course aims to train students through applied models, providing them with the necessary skills in this field.

Prerequisite: Service 3000 Introduction to Social Service

 

 

Management 4020- Project and Social Program Management (3-0-3)

This course provides the students with a robust understanding of social projects and services principles and practices. students will explore the planning process of a project, including methodologies for selecting project managers and the project life cycle. Additionally, the administrative processes of a project, such as planning, organizing, controlling, and budgeting. Through lectures, seminars, workshops, and case studies, students will be able to develop a project plans by using appropriate tools, and enhance their problem-solving skills and prepare them to address diverse project management challenges in the social services sectors.

Prerequisites: Management 4000 – Small Projects management

 

Management 3030- Service Management (3-0-3)

This course equips students with a foundational understanding of the essential principles of service marketing, particularly its significance within social service organizations. It highlights the differences between product and service marketing, offering a comprehensive analysis of the 7Ps marketing mix and the strategic decision-making processes within this context. Students will cultivate the capacity to differentiate between service and product marketing through lectures, seminars, collaborative group exercises, brainstorming sessions, and case studies. They will acquire insights into consumer personality treats and techniques for engaging with various customer types, so boosting their skills in customer engagement, service positioning, and value generation within service marketing.

Prerequisites: None

 

Management 3020- Public Relation Managment (3-0-3)

This course aims to equip students with the principles and practices of public relations management, philosophy, and objectives, with a focus on strategic communication. It covers the foundations of administrative structure, internal and external public relations mechanisms in social and other institutions, and its position in the organizational structure. Students engage with key concepts such as audience, analysis, campaign planning, and crisis communication. Interactive case studies, media monitoring exercises, and component development projects are integral to learning. By participating in these activities, students will gain practical skills and insights necessary for successful careers.

Prerequisites: Management 3000- Principle of Business Management

 

Service 4000- Social Planning and Development (3-0-3)

This course aims to introduce students to the fundamental principles of social development and planning, including its phases, levels, and the theories that underpin it. It also seeks to familiarize students with the strategies, tactics, and roles of social planners, as well as planning indicators, social needs assessment, and analysis. Furthermore, the course will explore various planning models and experiences in Gulf Arab countries. Through group discussions, seminars, and case studies, students will be equipped to offer innovative solutions to the challenges faced in planning processes and develop skills in analysing case studies.

Prerequisites: Service 3030

 

 

Graduation 4000 – Internship

This course is designed to provide students with in-depth practical experience by applying academic concepts and theories in real-world professional settings. Over a 10-week period, students will complete 120 hours of fieldwork under the supervision of both academic and field mentors in social and service organizations. The fieldwork will focus on various stages including assessing social issues, planning appropriate interventions, implementing these interventions in the field, and monitoring outcomes. Students will be required to submit regular analytical reports, with ongoing supervision to ensure quality performance and the development of professional skills. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to effectively apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, enabling them to address family and social challenges, produce professional reports that reflect their skills and competencies, and enhance their readiness for the job market.

Prerequisite: Completion of 75 credit hours.

 

Managemnt 4010- Social Institutions Management (3-0-3)

This course aims to equip students with the fundamental principles and foundations of managing social institutions. Through exploring theories that explain the activities and processes of social institutions and their applications, the course will delve into the ecology of management and social responsibility. It will also address the challenges faced by social institutions in the age of information technology, internal communication and management information systems within social institutions, as well as human resources and the factors influencing their development. Through lectures, group discussions, and case studies, students will develop the ability to prepare strategic plans for these institutions and suggest solutions for the challenges and problems of social institutions

Prerequisites: Managemet 3000- Principle of Business Management

 

Service 3010: Special Needs Care (3-0-3)

This course aims to equip students with the knowledge related to the foundations and principles of social care for individuals with special needs. It explores the characteristics of each category of individuals with special needs, such as those with disabilities, learning difficulties, and giftedness. The course also examines the challenges faced by each group and their basic needs. Additionally, the course delves into programs for caring for individuals with special needs and their applications within the framework of social work practices. Through various teaching methodologies, research, and practical plans, as well as field visits, students are expected to gain the ability to apply social care programs according to specific cases.

Prerequisite: None

 

Rights 3150: Family Counselling and Reform (3-0-3)

This course aims to introduce students to the concept of family reformation and counselling, and to familiarize them with its sources in religious texts, the Sunnah, and legal legislations. The course analyses the differences between the rules of reformation, arbitration, and mediation within the frameworks implemented in the United Arab Emirates. It also studies the mechanisms of reformation centres. By analysing the significance of the implications of family reformation and counselling according to legal regulations and the practical application of these concepts, the course aims to enable students to propose a family reformation program to address specific family problems in accordance with current systems

Prerequisite: None

 

Graduation 4010: Graduation Project

This course is designed to equip students with the skills to apply the knowledge and competencies acquired throughout their studies in Family Sciences, specifically within the three specializations: Social Counseling, Social Services Management, and Human Rights. The course focuses on developing a research plan that addresses a unique social issue using the scientific method to formulate and test hypotheses. Students will rely on theoretical evidence to support their hypotheses and employ appropriate statistical methods to verify them, aiming to find solutions to the problem. The course requires the preparation of a research paper according to the standards of social science research, followed by a presentation and discussion before a specialized academic committee. The course is delivered through individual supervision, academic guidance, and practical workshops. Upon completion, students will be able to produce a comprehensive applied research project that addresses a specific issue in a scientific manner.

Prerequisite: Completion of 105 credit hours.

Management3040-   Fundamentals of Financial Management (3-0-3)

This course aims to provide students with the knowledge related to financial management in social service institutions. It covers the tasks and activities related to financial management and its applications and fields in social services. It explains the concept of financial analysis, identifying financial statements, preparing budgets, planning, risk management, and financial strategies. Through group discussions, seminars, and case studies, the course aims to equip students with the basic skills to prepare financial budgets and the ability to link financial assets with social service programs.

Prerequisites: Management 3000- Principle of Business Management

 

Service   Volunteer Work (3-0-3)

This course aims to instil the values of volunteerism in students and equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate effectively in the community. Through this course, students will learn about the concepts of volunteerism and its importance, and will develop their leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. The course will also provide students with the opportunity for practical application through participation in various volunteer projects, contributing to the development of their initiative and social responsibility. Various aspects of volunteerism will be covered, including its history, institutions, and challenges, through a variety of teaching strategies such as lectures, discussions, and field visit

Prerequisites: None

 

Service 3050: Youth Care Services Management (3-0-3)

This course aims to demonstrate the theoretical foundations of youth care, its concept, problems, knowledge requirements, and needs, as well as the stages of development of youth care and the benefits achieved by youth care institutions. The course also reviews the latest trends in social work in the field of youth, the qualities of a successful social worker, and the professional preparation processes of a social worker as a general practitioner in the field of youth care, as well as youth care activities and programs, and the experience of the United Arab Emirates in the field of youth care. This is done through interactive discussions, case studies, and presentations, which enable students to analyse and evaluate youth issues and needs, and prepare plans and programs for social care.

Prerequisites: None

  

Service 4010: Professional Intervention in Social Work (3-0-3)

This course aims to explain the concepts of professional practice in social work, its historical development, characteristics, and systems. It also explores professional practices in social work, their foundations, classifications, and methods at the community, individual, and family levels. The course reviews some professional practices of interviewing and using technology in electronic social work interventions. It also presents some problem-solving strategies and their use in professional intervention for cases such as drug addiction, mental illness, and violence. Through various teaching methodologies such as theoretical lectures, interactive discussions, and applied case studies, the course aims to develop students' skills in applying professional intervention strategies to suit each case.

Prerequisite: None

A wide range of career opportunities are available for graduates of the Social Services Management program in the United Arab Emirates. This program addresses the growing need for skilled professionals in the social services and community sectors.

Here are some of the potential career paths for graduates of this program:

  • Managers of Administrative Departments in Service Institutions: Overseeing administrative functions in various social service organizations.
  • Social Project Managers: Managing and implementing social projects and programs.
  • Social Policy Consultants: Providing expertise in developing and evaluating social policies.
  • Human Resource Managers: Managing human resources within social service organizations.
  • Planning Professionals: Working in strategic planning and development roles.
  • Academic and Research Assisstant: Pursuing careers in academia or research, contributing to the advancement of social work knowledge.
  • Health Services Managers: Managing healthcare services, particularly in community-based settings.
  • Educational Services Managers: Managing educational programs and services, especially for vulnerable populations.
  • Social Workers: Working in social welfare institutions and communities, providing direct services to individuals and families.
  • Community Development Program Managers: Leading and implementing community development initiatives.
  • Rehabilitation Specialists: Working with individuals who require rehabilitation services, such as those recovering from addiction or trauma.

Enass Khalil Ibrahim

Assistant Professor

Business Management

College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities
Email: enasskhalil@uof.ac.ae
Phone: 092244499 local

ORCID / 0000-0002-2395-5315