Guaranteed Entry to the Major (GEM) | School of Social Work

The Guaranteed Entry to the Major (GEM) pathway provides eligible ACES Pre-BSW students with an opportunity to secure entry into UConn’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program while preparing for a career dedicated to helping individuals, families, and communities. Social workers serve as advocates, leaders, and change agents in settings such as schools, healthcare organizations, mental health agencies, child welfare programs, community nonprofits, and government agencies.

Through GEM, students can express their commitment to the social work profession early in their academic journey and receive guidance from the UConn School of Social Work as they prepare to enter the major.

For first and second-year ACES students who are committed to applying to the Bachelor of Social Work program, the GEM pathway provides a guaranteed pathway into the major and established an early connection to the School of Social Work community. — For first and second-year ACES students who are committed to majoring in social work, the GEM pathway provides a guaranteed entry into the major and established an early connection to the School of Social Work community.

Benefits of GEM

• Guaranteed pathway into the BSW major for students who meet program requirements
• Early connection to the School of Social Work community
• Academic and professional guidance throughout the first two years at UConn
• Opportunities to explore social work careers and community engagement
• A clear roadmap for progressing toward a professional social work degree

Eligibility & Requirements

Students participating in GEM must:

• Be designated as an ACES Pre-Social Work student
• Complete the GEM Enrollment Form before earning 30 credits*
• Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
• Complete most University Common Curriculum requirements before entering the major
• Earn at least 54 credits prior to BSW program entry (60-68 credits recommended)
• Meet with School of Social Work representatives to review academic progress and readiness for the program

*For the program launch year 2026-27, exceptions to the 30-credit deadline may apply.

Getting Started

Interested students should:

1. Meet with their academic advisor and express interest in the BSW program.
2. Schedule a time to meet with a representative from the School of Social Work Admissions Team.
3. Complete the GEM Enrollment Form.
4. Stay engaged with the School of Social Work through events, advising appointments, and program communications.
5. Explore volunteer, leadership, and community service opportunities that align with the values of the social work profession.

Ready to enroll?

Complete the GEM Enrollment Form here.

For questions about the GEM pathway, contact the UConn School of Social Work Admissions Team at swadmission@uconn.edu or attend an upcoming information session to learn more about eligibility and next steps.