Social Work (SW)
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SW 1010. Introduction to Social Work. (3 Credits)
Introduces social work history, theory, and practice. Examines the relationship between policy and practice in the context of nine major fields of social work. Considers challenges faced by today's practitioners including concerns with policy, social justice, and oppression. Explores current career opportunities in the field.
Canvas Course Mats $44/Cengage applies.
Canvas Course Mats $44/Cengage applies.
SW 2100. Human Behavior and the Social Environment I. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission into the BSW program
Presents major theoretical concepts about human development and environmental factors influencing development from the social and behavioral sciences and their applications to micro, mezzo, and macro social work practice. Explores intersectionality and how diversity shapes human experience and identity development. Focuses on the first half of the life cycle, the prenatal period through adolescence.
Presents major theoretical concepts about human development and environmental factors influencing development from the social and behavioral sciences and their applications to micro, mezzo, and macro social work practice. Explores intersectionality and how diversity shapes human experience and identity development. Focuses on the first half of the life cycle, the prenatal period through adolescence.
SW 275R. Survey of Current Topics. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): (ANTH 101G or PSY 1010 or SOC 1010 or SW 1010) and ENGL 1010 or ENGH 1005
Presents selected topic in Social Work and will vary each semester. Approaches subjects from a cross-disciplinary perspective. Requires a project demonstrating competency in the specific topic. May be repeated for nine credits toward graduation.
Presents selected topic in Social Work and will vary each semester. Approaches subjects from a cross-disciplinary perspective. Requires a project demonstrating competency in the specific topic. May be repeated for nine credits toward graduation.
SW 3000. Social Work Practice I. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the BSW program or declared major in Family Science and University Advanced Standing
Teaches students to apply the generalist social work Planned Change Model with individuals: engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transition/ending. Prepares students to utilize core social work interpersonal communication skills to engage clients in a professional partnership with intervention and planning. Emphasizes the importance of cultural humility, principles of strengths-based and anti-oppressive social work practice, empirical research, and theories of human behavior and person-in-environment. Discusses ethical and professional demeanor and practice.
Teaches students to apply the generalist social work Planned Change Model with individuals: engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transition/ending. Prepares students to utilize core social work interpersonal communication skills to engage clients in a professional partnership with intervention and planning. Emphasizes the importance of cultural humility, principles of strengths-based and anti-oppressive social work practice, empirical research, and theories of human behavior and person-in-environment. Discusses ethical and professional demeanor and practice.
SW 3100. Social Work Practice II. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 3000, Admission to the BSW program, and University Advanced Standing
Teaches students to apply the generalist social work Planned Change Process with families and groups: engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transition/ending. Introduces group and family development and the theory and models of social work practice with groups and families. Prepares students to utilize group leadership and family communication skills necessary for research-informed practice. Emphasizes ethical and anti-oppressive practice.
Teaches students to apply the generalist social work Planned Change Process with families and groups: engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transition/ending. Introduces group and family development and the theory and models of social work practice with groups and families. Prepares students to utilize group leadership and family communication skills necessary for research-informed practice. Emphasizes ethical and anti-oppressive practice.
SW 3200. Social Work Practice III. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 3000, SW 3100, Admission into the BSW program, and University Advanced Standing
Applies the social work Planned Change Model (engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transitions/ending) to community and organizational macro systems. Utilizes systems theory to examine macro social problems. Explores the values, principles, standards, laws, policies, and regulations that direct ethical social work practice on the macro level, including within communities and organizations.
Applies the social work Planned Change Model (engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transitions/ending) to community and organizational macro systems. Utilizes systems theory to examine macro social problems. Explores the values, principles, standards, laws, policies, and regulations that direct ethical social work practice on the macro level, including within communities and organizations.
SW 3400. Human Behavior and the Social Environment II. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 2100, Admission into the BSW program, and University Advanced Standing
Presents major theoretical concepts about human development and environmental factors influencing development from the social and behavioral sciences and their applications to micro, mezzo, and macro social work practice. Explores intersectionality and how diversity shapes human experience and identity development. Focuses on the second half of the lifecycle, young adulthood through older adulthood.
Presents major theoretical concepts about human development and environmental factors influencing development from the social and behavioral sciences and their applications to micro, mezzo, and macro social work practice. Explores intersectionality and how diversity shapes human experience and identity development. Focuses on the second half of the lifecycle, young adulthood through older adulthood.
SW 3500. Social Welfare Policies and Services. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission into the BSW program and University Advanced Standing
Analyzes current social policy within the context of historical and contemporary factors that shape policy. Examines major social forces and institutions as they relate to and determine social policy emphasizing social welfare services in an industrialized society. Evaluates social welfare frameworks in light of the principles of social and economic justice. Identifies effect of social policy on generalist social work practice.
Analyzes current social policy within the context of historical and contemporary factors that shape policy. Examines major social forces and institutions as they relate to and determine social policy emphasizing social welfare services in an industrialized society. Evaluates social welfare frameworks in light of the principles of social and economic justice. Identifies effect of social policy on generalist social work practice.
SW 3510. Global Social Work. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): ENGL 2010 with a C+ grade or higher, SW 1010, and University Advanced Standing
Investigates ways in which micro and macro skills can be integrated via a social development model to address social welfare issues in international settings. Includes the development of interventions beginning at the community level and moving toward global as well as individual practice. Focuses on the enhancement of practice knowledge and skills in program design, development, implementation and evaluation. Addresses basic resources such as food, shelter, potable water and sanitation, as well as sustainable economic development, inter-ethnic conflict, global indebtedness, ethnoconscious organizational development, and empowerment/conscientization as a method of intervening in social challenges.
Investigates ways in which micro and macro skills can be integrated via a social development model to address social welfare issues in international settings. Includes the development of interventions beginning at the community level and moving toward global as well as individual practice. Focuses on the enhancement of practice knowledge and skills in program design, development, implementation and evaluation. Addresses basic resources such as food, shelter, potable water and sanitation, as well as sustainable economic development, inter-ethnic conflict, global indebtedness, ethnoconscious organizational development, and empowerment/conscientization as a method of intervening in social challenges.
SW 355G. Thanatology--Death and Dying GI. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): (PSY 1010 or SW 1010) and (ENGL 2010 with a C+ grade or higher) and University Advanced Standing
Introduces students to the subject of thanatology. Reviews theories and research associated with death and dying. Examines death systems, cultural norms, taboos and rituals. Studies the health care system, public policy, laws, and customs. Addresses death from a developmental perspective. Explores life-threating illness, suicide, and end-of-life issues. Reviews grief and loss themes. Familiarizes students with vocabulary and explores related human service occupations such as bereavement counseling and hospice care. May be delivered hybrid.
Introduces students to the subject of thanatology. Reviews theories and research associated with death and dying. Examines death systems, cultural norms, taboos and rituals. Studies the health care system, public policy, laws, and customs. Addresses death from a developmental perspective. Explores life-threating illness, suicide, and end-of-life issues. Reviews grief and loss themes. Familiarizes students with vocabulary and explores related human service occupations such as bereavement counseling and hospice care. May be delivered hybrid.
SW 3600. Ethics and Values in Social Work Practice. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission into the BSW program and University Advanced Standing
Acquaints students with the values of the field of social work and the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers to help them begin to develop the ability to effectively deal with the ethical issues they will be confronted with in professional practice. Increases students awareness of new and emerging ethical issues and provide tools and methodologies for ethical decision-making. Addresses ethical dilemmas involving conflict between personal values, agency guidelines, professional standards, and cultural differences. Includes discussion of models for ethical decision-making, the NASW Code of Ethics, as well as the codes of ethics of other human services professional organizations.
Acquaints students with the values of the field of social work and the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers to help them begin to develop the ability to effectively deal with the ethical issues they will be confronted with in professional practice. Increases students awareness of new and emerging ethical issues and provide tools and methodologies for ethical decision-making. Addresses ethical dilemmas involving conflict between personal values, agency guidelines, professional standards, and cultural differences. Includes discussion of models for ethical decision-making, the NASW Code of Ethics, as well as the codes of ethics of other human services professional organizations.
SW 371G. Diversity Issues in Social Work Practice GI. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission into the BSW program and University Advanced Standing
Increases understanding and appreciation of diverse client populations, the nature of cultural identity, group membership and differential access to resources, and strategies to combat discrimination, oppression and economic deprivation and to promote social and economic justice. Examines socio-identities including: race, ethnicity, religion, gender, social class, sexual orientation, abilities, and age. Includes discussion of oppressive and discriminatory experiences as well as resilience and strengths encountered by different groups. Explores similarities, differences, and controversies between diverse populations in the context of their personal values and professional policy and practice.
Increases understanding and appreciation of diverse client populations, the nature of cultural identity, group membership and differential access to resources, and strategies to combat discrimination, oppression and economic deprivation and to promote social and economic justice. Examines socio-identities including: race, ethnicity, religion, gender, social class, sexual orientation, abilities, and age. Includes discussion of oppressive and discriminatory experiences as well as resilience and strengths encountered by different groups. Explores similarities, differences, and controversies between diverse populations in the context of their personal values and professional policy and practice.
SW 3750. Child Abuse Neglect and Domestic Violence. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 1010 and University Advanced Standing
Reviews definitions of child abuse and neglect and other forms of domestic violence using a multidisciplinary perspective. Explores theories explaining the causes of abuse/neglect and domestic violence. Identifies indicators of abuse/neglect and aids students in making assessments and intervening in situations of abuse/neglect and domestic violence. Educates students in mandatory reporting laws and the workings of the child welfare system in efforts to intervene and prevent abuse/neglect. Addresses current policy issues pertinent to child abuse/neglect and domestic violence and identifies effective methods in which students can advocate for social change within the social and child welfare system.
Reviews definitions of child abuse and neglect and other forms of domestic violence using a multidisciplinary perspective. Explores theories explaining the causes of abuse/neglect and domestic violence. Identifies indicators of abuse/neglect and aids students in making assessments and intervening in situations of abuse/neglect and domestic violence. Educates students in mandatory reporting laws and the workings of the child welfare system in efforts to intervene and prevent abuse/neglect. Addresses current policy issues pertinent to child abuse/neglect and domestic violence and identifies effective methods in which students can advocate for social change within the social and child welfare system.
SW 3760. Post Traumatic Growth--Beyond Survival. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): PSY 3110 or equivalent, and University Advanced Standing
Examines post-traumatic growth from an ecological perspective and across various at-risk populations. Emphasizes traditional and non-traditional approaches in dealing with physically and psychologically traumatic issues. Explores the characteristics of trauma from a strengths-based perspective and how to best provide services to people that have experienced traumatic events at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Considers events within their ecological context. Discusses sensitivity to a variety of circumstances and cultural patterns.
Examines post-traumatic growth from an ecological perspective and across various at-risk populations. Emphasizes traditional and non-traditional approaches in dealing with physically and psychologically traumatic issues. Explores the characteristics of trauma from a strengths-based perspective and how to best provide services to people that have experienced traumatic events at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Considers events within their ecological context. Discusses sensitivity to a variety of circumstances and cultural patterns.
SW 3860. Interviewing Skills. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): ENGL 2010 with C+ or better and University Advanced Standing; PSY 2300 with a C- grade or higher recommended
Develops knowledge of and skill in clinical interviewing across cultures. Familiarizes students with a broad range of clinical interviewing skills. Uses class discussions, video clips of master clinicians, instructor modeling, in-class practice, videotaped role plays, and class and instructor evaluations of role plays.
Develops knowledge of and skill in clinical interviewing across cultures. Familiarizes students with a broad range of clinical interviewing skills. Uses class discussions, video clips of master clinicians, instructor modeling, in-class practice, videotaped role plays, and class and instructor evaluations of role plays.
SW 4450. Introduction to Child Welfare I. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 1010 and (ENGL 2010 with C+ or higher) and University Advanced Standing
Prepares students to be effective interventionists in family systems where children are at risk of abuse, neglect, or dependency. Examines four-part Child Welfare CORE Competency-based series. Provides students with the basic knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for successful performance as child welfare workers.
Prepares students to be effective interventionists in family systems where children are at risk of abuse, neglect, or dependency. Examines four-part Child Welfare CORE Competency-based series. Provides students with the basic knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for successful performance as child welfare workers.
SW 4460. Introduction to Child Welfare II. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admitted to BS in Social Work, SW 1010, (ENGL 2010 with C+ or higher) and University Advanced Standing
Addresses the basic effects of abuse, neglect, and separation on child development. Focuses on the knowledge and skills required for child welfare workers to provide services related to child placement, including risk assessment, attachment, separation, loss, grief, family intervention, and reunification and reintegration services. Teaches strategies to reduce trauma and promote effective child placement. Explains the foster-care system, including how to work with foster caregivers.
Addresses the basic effects of abuse, neglect, and separation on child development. Focuses on the knowledge and skills required for child welfare workers to provide services related to child placement, including risk assessment, attachment, separation, loss, grief, family intervention, and reunification and reintegration services. Teaches strategies to reduce trauma and promote effective child placement. Explains the foster-care system, including how to work with foster caregivers.
SW 4500. Crisis Intervention. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): [SW 1010 and (ENGL 2010 with a minimum C+ grade) or instructor approval] and University Advanced Standing
Introduces the student to the philosophy, knowledge, techniques, and skills of crisis intervention. Provides opportunities through projects, written assignments, role playing, and first-hand interaction with professional crisis workers by which the students may deepen their understanding of this demanding method of social work practice.
Introduces the student to the philosophy, knowledge, techniques, and skills of crisis intervention. Provides opportunities through projects, written assignments, role playing, and first-hand interaction with professional crisis workers by which the students may deepen their understanding of this demanding method of social work practice.
SW 4600. The DSM of Mental Disorders. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 1010, PSY 2300, ENGL 2010 with a C+ grade or higher, and University Advanced Standing
Provides an overview of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of mental disorders (DSM) based on clinical diagnosis. Teaches DSM based clinical diagnosis. Teaches DSM diagnoses including diagnostic criteria, prevalence rates, gender and cultural differences in prevalence and symptomatology, disease course, and differential diagnosis. Uses class discussions, videotapes of individuals with different DSM diagnoses, and case scenarios.
Provides an overview of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of mental disorders (DSM) based on clinical diagnosis. Teaches DSM based clinical diagnosis. Teaches DSM diagnoses including diagnostic criteria, prevalence rates, gender and cultural differences in prevalence and symptomatology, disease course, and differential diagnosis. Uses class discussions, videotapes of individuals with different DSM diagnoses, and case scenarios.
SW 4700. Case Management in Social Work Practice. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 1010 and University Advanced Standing
Provides the conceptual foundation for providing case management services and crisis intervention to individuals in various population groups.
Provides the conceptual foundation for providing case management services and crisis intervention to individuals in various population groups.
SW 475R. Current Topics in Social Work. (3 Credits)
SW 4800. Integrated Seminar I. (1 Credit)
Prerequisite(s): SW 3000, admission to the BSW program, and University Advanced Standing
Corequisite(s): SW 481R
Provides a generalist base for social work practice that involves an on-site, supervised field agency practicum and a weekly seminar. Assists the student to integrate classroom learning with learning that takes place in the on-site field practicum. First of two courses in field practicum sequence. Graded Credit/No Credit.
Corequisite(s): SW 481R
Provides a generalist base for social work practice that involves an on-site, supervised field agency practicum and a weekly seminar. Assists the student to integrate classroom learning with learning that takes place in the on-site field practicum. First of two courses in field practicum sequence. Graded Credit/No Credit.
SW 481R. Field Placement. (1-8 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the BSW program and University Advanced Standing
Corequisite(s): SW 4800 or SW 4850
Provides a generalist base for social work practice that involves an on-site, supervised field agency practicum. Assists the student to integrate classroom learning with learning that takes place in the on-site field practicum. Performs a minimum of 225 hours of supervised social work in a local agency setting. May be repeated for a maximum of 10 credits toward graduation. May be graded credit/no credit.
Course fee of $60 applies for practical experience applies.
Corequisite(s): SW 4800 or SW 4850
Provides a generalist base for social work practice that involves an on-site, supervised field agency practicum. Assists the student to integrate classroom learning with learning that takes place in the on-site field practicum. Performs a minimum of 225 hours of supervised social work in a local agency setting. May be repeated for a maximum of 10 credits toward graduation. May be graded credit/no credit.
Course fee of $60 applies for practical experience applies.
SW 4850. Integrated Seminar II. (1 Credit)
Prerequisite(s): Senior Standing in the BSW program, SW 4800 with B- or higher, and University Advanced Standing
Corequisite(s): SW 481R
Provides a generalist base for social work practice that involves an on-site, supervised field agency practicum and a weekly seminar. Assists the student to integrate classroom learning with learning that takes place in the on-site field practicum. Provides an integrative classroom experience for students with a clinical interest currently working in related jobs or volunteer experiences in human service agencies or work sites. Second of two courses in the field practicum sequence.
Corequisite(s): SW 481R
Provides a generalist base for social work practice that involves an on-site, supervised field agency practicum and a weekly seminar. Assists the student to integrate classroom learning with learning that takes place in the on-site field practicum. Provides an integrative classroom experience for students with a clinical interest currently working in related jobs or volunteer experiences in human service agencies or work sites. Second of two courses in the field practicum sequence.
SW 489R. Advanced Research in Social Work. (1-3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 1010 with a C grade or higher; ENGL 2010 with C+ grade or higher; University Advanced Standing; Instructor approval
Expands research experience by either (1) significantly assisting on a faculty member's research project or (2) carrying out an independent research project of the student's design under faculty mentorship. Requires individual initiative and responsibility. Includes limited formal instruction. Includes literature searches, completion of the IRB application process, materials creation, data collection, data analysis, writing a publishable paper, preparing a poster, preparing an oral presentation, or other options as approved by the instructor. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits toward graduation.
Expands research experience by either (1) significantly assisting on a faculty member's research project or (2) carrying out an independent research project of the student's design under faculty mentorship. Requires individual initiative and responsibility. Includes limited formal instruction. Includes literature searches, completion of the IRB application process, materials creation, data collection, data analysis, writing a publishable paper, preparing a poster, preparing an oral presentation, or other options as approved by the instructor. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits toward graduation.
SW 490R. Independent Studies. (1-3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Instructor approval, department chair approval, and University Advanced Standing; for Behavioral Science Bachelor Degree students only
For qualified students who wish to undertake a well-defined project or directed study related to an area of special interest. Requires individual initiative and responsibility. Includes limited formal instruction and faculty supervision. Projects may include writing a publishable paper, passing a competency exam, producing an annotated bibliography, oral presentation, or other options as approved by the instructor. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits.
For qualified students who wish to undertake a well-defined project or directed study related to an area of special interest. Requires individual initiative and responsibility. Includes limited formal instruction and faculty supervision. Projects may include writing a publishable paper, passing a competency exam, producing an annotated bibliography, oral presentation, or other options as approved by the instructor. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits.
SW 6000. Social Work Practice I--Generalist Practice with Individuals. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program
Teaches students to apply the generalist social work Planned Change Model with individuals: engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transition/ending. Prepares students to utilize core social work interpersonal communication skills to engage clients in a professional partnership and complete a comprehensive assessment. Emphasizes the importance of cultural humility, principles of strengths-based and anti-oppressive social work practice, empirical research, and theories of human behavior and person-in-environment. Overviews intervention modalities, including case management. Discusses ethical and professional demeanor and practice.
Teaches students to apply the generalist social work Planned Change Model with individuals: engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transition/ending. Prepares students to utilize core social work interpersonal communication skills to engage clients in a professional partnership and complete a comprehensive assessment. Emphasizes the importance of cultural humility, principles of strengths-based and anti-oppressive social work practice, empirical research, and theories of human behavior and person-in-environment. Overviews intervention modalities, including case management. Discusses ethical and professional demeanor and practice.
SW 6020. Social Work Practice II--Generalist Practice with Families and Groups. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6000
Teaches students to apply the generalist social work Planned Change Process with families and groups: engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transition/ending. Introduces group and family development and the theory and models of social work practice with groups and families. Prepares students to utilize group leadership and family communication skills necessary for research-informed practice. Emphasizes ethical and anti-oppressive practice and discusses how working with families and groups can advance human rights and social justice.
Teaches students to apply the generalist social work Planned Change Process with families and groups: engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transition/ending. Introduces group and family development and the theory and models of social work practice with groups and families. Prepares students to utilize group leadership and family communication skills necessary for research-informed practice. Emphasizes ethical and anti-oppressive practice and discusses how working with families and groups can advance human rights and social justice.
SW 6030. Social Work Practice III--Advanced Practice with Individuals. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6000 or acceptance into the Advanced Standing MSW Program.
Examines clinical approaches most often used with clients. Emphasizes the theoretical basis of treatment modalities and how to apply them in practice.
Examines clinical approaches most often used with clients. Emphasizes the theoretical basis of treatment modalities and how to apply them in practice.
SW 6040. Social Work Practice IV--Advanced Practice with Families and Groups. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW Program
Builds on the skills and knowledge for generalist social work practice with an emphasis on advanced practice with small groups and complex family cases. Implements the planned change process to target workable intervention strategies. Identifies family and group problems such as scapegoating, manipulation, resistance, and how to solve those problems.
Builds on the skills and knowledge for generalist social work practice with an emphasis on advanced practice with small groups and complex family cases. Implements the planned change process to target workable intervention strategies. Identifies family and group problems such as scapegoating, manipulation, resistance, and how to solve those problems.
SW 6050. Social Work Practice V--Advanced Practice with Organizations and Communities. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6300 or Acceptance into the Advanced Standing MSW Program
Analyzes multiple approaches social workers use to influence groups, organizations, communities, and systems. Examines concepts, theories, and models of macro level practice and skills for addressing complex practice and organizational situations.
Analyzes multiple approaches social workers use to influence groups, organizations, communities, and systems. Examines concepts, theories, and models of macro level practice and skills for addressing complex practice and organizational situations.
SW 6200. Human Behavior and the Social Environment. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW Program
Teaches students critical perspectives, theories, and frameworks that describe the behavior of individuals, families, interpersonal and group relationships, communities, and social and political systems. Focuses on theories and knowledge related to biological, sociological, psychological, spiritual, and cultural processes as they affect development across the lifespan as well as well-being, challenge, and coping. Emphasizes the person-in-environment framework for understanding the reciprocal nature of interactions between micro, mezzo, and macro systems. Investigates varying social environment factors, including historical, social, racial, cultural, economic privilege and power, oppression, and marginalization that impact individuals, families, organizations and communities.
Teaches students critical perspectives, theories, and frameworks that describe the behavior of individuals, families, interpersonal and group relationships, communities, and social and political systems. Focuses on theories and knowledge related to biological, sociological, psychological, spiritual, and cultural processes as they affect development across the lifespan as well as well-being, challenge, and coping. Emphasizes the person-in-environment framework for understanding the reciprocal nature of interactions between micro, mezzo, and macro systems. Investigates varying social environment factors, including historical, social, racial, cultural, economic privilege and power, oppression, and marginalization that impact individuals, families, organizations and communities.
SW 6250. Macro Systems and Social Impact. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program
Applies the social work Planned Change Model (engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transitions/ending to community and organizational macro systems. Utilizes systems theory and thinking to examine social problems within actionable parameters: identifying stakeholders and their relationships to power and influence; examining historical precedence and current policy; identifying causes, consequences, and reinforcing feedback loops; investigating existing interventions; and determining the gaps and opportunities for intervention within a system. Examines the social work profession utilizing an anti-oppressive lens and explores the values, principles, standards, laws, policies, and regulations that direct ethical social work practice on the macro level.
Applies the social work Planned Change Model (engagement, assessment, goal setting/contracting, implementation, evaluation, and transitions/ending to community and organizational macro systems. Utilizes systems theory and thinking to examine social problems within actionable parameters: identifying stakeholders and their relationships to power and influence; examining historical precedence and current policy; identifying causes, consequences, and reinforcing feedback loops; investigating existing interventions; and determining the gaps and opportunities for intervention within a system. Examines the social work profession utilizing an anti-oppressive lens and explores the values, principles, standards, laws, policies, and regulations that direct ethical social work practice on the macro level.
SW 6300. Social Welfare Policy and Analysis. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program
Teaches students to identify the impacts of historical and current social policies on individual, family, and community well-being, human rights, social and economic justice, and structural oppression. Analyzes the role of governments, and the private and non-profit approaches to social policy and service formulation, implementation, and evaluation. Examines major social forces and institutions as they relate to and determine social welfare policy and welfare services in the United States. Teaches students how to advocate for policy that ensures that resources, rights, and responsibilities are distributed equitably.
Teaches students to identify the impacts of historical and current social policies on individual, family, and community well-being, human rights, social and economic justice, and structural oppression. Analyzes the role of governments, and the private and non-profit approaches to social policy and service formulation, implementation, and evaluation. Examines major social forces and institutions as they relate to and determine social welfare policy and welfare services in the United States. Teaches students how to advocate for policy that ensures that resources, rights, and responsibilities are distributed equitably.
SW 6320. Social Work Practice with Diverse Populations. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6000
Emphasizes the social work profession’s commitment to cultural humility, anti-oppression, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and advancing social, economic, and environmental justice. Explores how intersectionality (including, but not limited to age, social class, culture, disability and ability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, immigration status, nationality, religion, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and tribal sovereign status) determines experiences of power, privilege, and marginalization and shapes people’s life experiences. Prepares students to practice social work reflexively in congruence with principles of anti-oppressive practice and to challenge dominant norms and world views that work to marginalize persons. Requires significant self-reflection to understand one’s unique positionality as a social work practitioner.
Emphasizes the social work profession’s commitment to cultural humility, anti-oppression, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and advancing social, economic, and environmental justice. Explores how intersectionality (including, but not limited to age, social class, culture, disability and ability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, immigration status, nationality, religion, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and tribal sovereign status) determines experiences of power, privilege, and marginalization and shapes people’s life experiences. Prepares students to practice social work reflexively in congruence with principles of anti-oppressive practice and to challenge dominant norms and world views that work to marginalize persons. Requires significant self-reflection to understand one’s unique positionality as a social work practitioner.
SW 6400. Social Work Research Methods. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW Program
Overviews social work research including the empirical research process and quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Prepares students to conduct ethical, responsible, and diverse social work research and/or evaluation on the macro, mezzo, and micro levels. Teaches critical analysis of scholarly literature and application of research in social work practice. Includes the importance of practice and program evaluation as social work research. Educates on effective oral and written presentation of research.
Overviews social work research including the empirical research process and quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Prepares students to conduct ethical, responsible, and diverse social work research and/or evaluation on the macro, mezzo, and micro levels. Teaches critical analysis of scholarly literature and application of research in social work practice. Includes the importance of practice and program evaluation as social work research. Educates on effective oral and written presentation of research.
SW 6407. The Social Work Profession and Ethical Practice. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW Program
Provides an overview of the NASW Code of Ethics. Emphasizes the application of the Code to social work practice situations among various client systems and populations. Addresses the relationships between the Code and the client’s basic legal rights.
Provides an overview of the NASW Code of Ethics. Emphasizes the application of the Code to social work practice situations among various client systems and populations. Addresses the relationships between the Code and the client’s basic legal rights.
SW 6490. MSW Advanced Standing Bridge Course. (4 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the MSW Advanced Standing program
Supplements the knowledge, skills, and values foundation developed in participants’ BSW programs. Reviews content learned at the baccalaureate level and material that will be helpful in preparing students for the concentration year of the MSW program. Prepares MSW students to transition from the foundation year to the advanced concentration courses. Addresses topics necessary for advanced MSW- level practice and to support effective and ethical micro- and macro-level interventions. Covers key content addressed in SW foundation courses within the BSW program. This course is open to Advanced Standing students only.
Supplements the knowledge, skills, and values foundation developed in participants’ BSW programs. Reviews content learned at the baccalaureate level and material that will be helpful in preparing students for the concentration year of the MSW program. Prepares MSW students to transition from the foundation year to the advanced concentration courses. Addresses topics necessary for advanced MSW- level practice and to support effective and ethical micro- and macro-level interventions. Covers key content addressed in SW foundation courses within the BSW program. This course is open to Advanced Standing students only.
SW 6491. MSW Advanced Standing Skills Course. (4 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the MSW Advanced Standing program, SW 6490
Develops students’ applied skills in Social Work practice. Integrates foundational social work approaches to practice, such as empowerment, strengths-based, and collaborative/person-centered skills. Assures that incoming Advanced Standing students have mastered foundational competencies in social-work practice skills with various types of human systems. Prepares MSW students to transition from the foundation year to the advanced concentration courses. Open to Advanced Standing students only.
Develops students’ applied skills in Social Work practice. Integrates foundational social work approaches to practice, such as empowerment, strengths-based, and collaborative/person-centered skills. Assures that incoming Advanced Standing students have mastered foundational competencies in social-work practice skills with various types of human systems. Prepares MSW students to transition from the foundation year to the advanced concentration courses. Open to Advanced Standing students only.
SW 6500. Social Work Practice with Substance Related and Addictive Disorders. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6000 or acceptance into the Advanced Standing MSW program.
Teaches how to reduce or eliminate the detrimental impact of substance use disorders at multiple levels, such as families, groups, organizations, and communities. Teaches the knowledge and skills that assist in reducing and eliminating addiction. Enables students to identify, assess, and evaluate those struggling with substance abuse and dependency throughout the life span and how to intervene when necessary.
Teaches how to reduce or eliminate the detrimental impact of substance use disorders at multiple levels, such as families, groups, organizations, and communities. Teaches the knowledge and skills that assist in reducing and eliminating addiction. Enables students to identify, assess, and evaluate those struggling with substance abuse and dependency throughout the life span and how to intervene when necessary.
SW 6530. Psychopharmacology. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to MSW program
Addresses principles of nervous system function with emphasis on communication between nerve cells. Focuses on therapeutic drugs as well as drugs of abuse to include mechanisms of action and behavioral effects. Teaches content on dynamics of addiction within a pharmacological context.
Addresses principles of nervous system function with emphasis on communication between nerve cells. Focuses on therapeutic drugs as well as drugs of abuse to include mechanisms of action and behavioral effects. Teaches content on dynamics of addiction within a pharmacological context.
SW 6610. Spirituality in Social Work. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to MSW program
Addresses a theistic model for social work clinical practice. Examines various religious and spiritual world views and their application to counseling and psychotherapy. Emphasizes the need for increased sensitivity and competence in working with clients for whom faith-based interventions are desired.
Addresses a theistic model for social work clinical practice. Examines various religious and spiritual world views and their application to counseling and psychotherapy. Emphasizes the need for increased sensitivity and competence in working with clients for whom faith-based interventions are desired.
SW 6620. Family Therapy. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6000
Introduces a skills-based course in the field of family therapy. Trains prospective clinicians to work with families from a systems focus. Reviews the history of family therapy and the predominant models of the field. Emphasizes ethical and cultural issues in the realm of family therapy.
Introduces a skills-based course in the field of family therapy. Trains prospective clinicians to work with families from a systems focus. Reviews the history of family therapy and the predominant models of the field. Emphasizes ethical and cultural issues in the realm of family therapy.
SW 6630. Mental Health Assessment in Social Work Practice. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to MSW program
Introduces the theories, frameworks, research, and skills related to the assessment and diagnosis of mental health disorders. Provides an overview of the major disorders in the current edition of the DSM. Examines a range of mental disorders, including etiology, developmental course, diagnosis and diagnostic tools, and treatment planning. Addresses diversity and equity issues and ethical, socially responsible practice. Overviews biological, psychological, environmental, cultural, and relational risk and protective factors and summarizes the critiques and limitations of the DSM.
Introduces the theories, frameworks, research, and skills related to the assessment and diagnosis of mental health disorders. Provides an overview of the major disorders in the current edition of the DSM. Examines a range of mental disorders, including etiology, developmental course, diagnosis and diagnostic tools, and treatment planning. Addresses diversity and equity issues and ethical, socially responsible practice. Overviews biological, psychological, environmental, cultural, and relational risk and protective factors and summarizes the critiques and limitations of the DSM.
SW 6640. Crisis Intervention. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to MSW program
Introduces the philosophy, knowledge, techniques, and skills of crisis intervention. Provides opportunities through projects, written assignments, role playing, and first-hand interaction with professional crisis workers to deepen understanding of this demanding method of social work practice.
Introduces the philosophy, knowledge, techniques, and skills of crisis intervention. Provides opportunities through projects, written assignments, role playing, and first-hand interaction with professional crisis workers to deepen understanding of this demanding method of social work practice.
SW 6650. Couples Therapy. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6000
Trains prospective clinicians in working with couples in a therapeutic capacity. Teaches the basic skills, dominant models, and unique challenges of couples therapy. Examines essential skills and techniques in working with dating, cohabiting, premarital, and marital couples. Examines unique situations of therapy such as addictions, affairs, and sexual issues. Addresses issues of diversity in couples therapy.
Trains prospective clinicians in working with couples in a therapeutic capacity. Teaches the basic skills, dominant models, and unique challenges of couples therapy. Examines essential skills and techniques in working with dating, cohabiting, premarital, and marital couples. Examines unique situations of therapy such as addictions, affairs, and sexual issues. Addresses issues of diversity in couples therapy.
SW 6660. Family Violence Across the Lifespan. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program
Examines interpersonal violence within the context of familial role and across at-risk populations. Emphasizes a variety of family systems and the impact that issues such as divorce, substance abuse, child abuse, and incarceration have on the various units in the family system. Considers issues and builds practice skills related to family support services, child maltreatment, and substitute care.
Examines interpersonal violence within the context of familial role and across at-risk populations. Emphasizes a variety of family systems and the impact that issues such as divorce, substance abuse, child abuse, and incarceration have on the various units in the family system. Considers issues and builds practice skills related to family support services, child maltreatment, and substitute care.
SW 6670. Post Traumatic Growth--Practice and Clinical Considerations. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admittance to the MSW Program
Examines post-traumatic growth across various at-risk populations. Considers several clinical and therapeutic issues in addition to other practice skills related to supportive services from a variety of theoretical frameworks that promote individual, familial, and community growth. Discusses diagnostic criteria and treatment differences in post-traumatic stress and post-traumatic growth. Explores events within their ecological context and works to build sensitivity to a variety of circumstances and cultural patterns. Emphasizes traditional as well as non-traditional approaches in dealing with physically and psychologically traumatic issues such as cancer, interpersonal violence, divorce, child abuse, etc. Discusses characteristics of trauma from a strengths-based perspective and how to best provide services to people that have experienced traumatic events at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.
Examines post-traumatic growth across various at-risk populations. Considers several clinical and therapeutic issues in addition to other practice skills related to supportive services from a variety of theoretical frameworks that promote individual, familial, and community growth. Discusses diagnostic criteria and treatment differences in post-traumatic stress and post-traumatic growth. Explores events within their ecological context and works to build sensitivity to a variety of circumstances and cultural patterns. Emphasizes traditional as well as non-traditional approaches in dealing with physically and psychologically traumatic issues such as cancer, interpersonal violence, divorce, child abuse, etc. Discusses characteristics of trauma from a strengths-based perspective and how to best provide services to people that have experienced traumatic events at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.
SW 6700. Advanced Practice with Communities of Color and Other Diverse Populations. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6000, SW 6320
Explains diversity and difference, power and privilege, and oppression. Encourages self-examination within these systems as an essential foundation for culturally competent social work practice. Introduces issues related to service utilization within communities of color and providing effective interventions for historically under-served populations.
Explains diversity and difference, power and privilege, and oppression. Encourages self-examination within these systems as an essential foundation for culturally competent social work practice. Introduces issues related to service utilization within communities of color and providing effective interventions for historically under-served populations.
SW 679R. Special Topics in Social Work Practice. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission into the MSW Program, or approval from Program Director.
Presents selected topics in the field of social work at the master's level that may vary by section and/or semester. Provides students in-depth education and training in specialized topics within the field of social work practice. May be repeated with different topics for up to 9 credits toward graduation requirements.
Presents selected topics in the field of social work at the master's level that may vary by section and/or semester. Provides students in-depth education and training in specialized topics within the field of social work practice. May be repeated with different topics for up to 9 credits toward graduation requirements.
SW 6810. Integrative Seminar I. (1 Credit)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program
Integrates and applies the knowledge and skills obtained from course work to social work practice in the field practicum agency. Examines and evaluates practice experiences to increase the ability to apply theory, research, models, and skills with clients. Emphasizes ethical social work practice. Provides an opportunity to practice social work skills under the supervision of an experienced professional social worker.
Integrates and applies the knowledge and skills obtained from course work to social work practice in the field practicum agency. Examines and evaluates practice experiences to increase the ability to apply theory, research, models, and skills with clients. Emphasizes ethical social work practice. Provides an opportunity to practice social work skills under the supervision of an experienced professional social worker.
SW 6820. Integrative Seminar II. (1 Credit)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6810
Builds on Integrative Seminar I. Integrates and applies the knowledge and skills obtained from coursework to social work practice in the field practicum agency. Examines and evaluates practice experiences to increase the ability to apply theory, research, models, and skills with clients. Emphasizes ethical social work practice. Provides an opportunity to practice social work skills under the supervision of an experienced professional social worker.
Builds on Integrative Seminar I. Integrates and applies the knowledge and skills obtained from coursework to social work practice in the field practicum agency. Examines and evaluates practice experiences to increase the ability to apply theory, research, models, and skills with clients. Emphasizes ethical social work practice. Provides an opportunity to practice social work skills under the supervision of an experienced professional social worker.
SW 6830. Integrative Seminar III. (1 Credit)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6820 or admission into the Advanced Standing MSW Program
Provides opportunities for integration of social work course work and field practicum experiences. Features in-depth analysis of specific social work competencies within the students' domains of practice. Teaches the domains of social work practice that include: assessment, interventions, program policies, and service delivery and leadership in the chosen practice area. Provides guidance in practicum and seminar.
Provides opportunities for integration of social work course work and field practicum experiences. Features in-depth analysis of specific social work competencies within the students' domains of practice. Teaches the domains of social work practice that include: assessment, interventions, program policies, and service delivery and leadership in the chosen practice area. Provides guidance in practicum and seminar.
SW 6840. Integrative Seminar IV. (1 Credit)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6830
Provides opportunities for integration of social work course work and field practicum experiences. Features in-depth analysis of specific social work competencies within the students' domains of practice. Teaches the domains of social work practice that include: assessment, interventions, program policies, and service delivery and leadership in the chosen practice area. Provides guidance in practicum and seminar.
Provides opportunities for integration of social work course work and field practicum experiences. Features in-depth analysis of specific social work competencies within the students' domains of practice. Teaches the domains of social work practice that include: assessment, interventions, program policies, and service delivery and leadership in the chosen practice area. Provides guidance in practicum and seminar.
SW 6910. Foundation Field Practicum I. (2 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program
Offers engaged field education as the central form of instruction and learning to socialize students to become practitioners. Integrates social work theory with practice. Reinforces the purposes, values, and ethics of the social work profession. Fosters the integration of empirical and practice-based knowledge to promote the development of professional competence.
Offers engaged field education as the central form of instruction and learning to socialize students to become practitioners. Integrates social work theory with practice. Reinforces the purposes, values, and ethics of the social work profession. Fosters the integration of empirical and practice-based knowledge to promote the development of professional competence.
SW 6920. Foundation Field Practicum II. (2 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to MSW program
Provides the opportunity to apply classroom learning and to integrate theory with practice. Aligns with Council on Social Work Education standards for field education. Reinforces the purposes, values, and ethics of the social work profession. Promotes the development of professional competence.
Provides the opportunity to apply classroom learning and to integrate theory with practice. Aligns with Council on Social Work Education standards for field education. Reinforces the purposes, values, and ethics of the social work profession. Promotes the development of professional competence.
SW 6930. Advanced Field Practicum I. (2 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program
Provides agency-based field instruction for advanced learning and practice opportunities relevant to social work. Provides opportunity to integrate and apply advanced generalist practice theory within field experiences. Advances knowledge and skills in practice, research, and evaluation across multi-level systems. Combines field experience, traditional classroom, field supervision, online activities and assignments, and self-directed learning per the field practicum manual.
Provides agency-based field instruction for advanced learning and practice opportunities relevant to social work. Provides opportunity to integrate and apply advanced generalist practice theory within field experiences. Advances knowledge and skills in practice, research, and evaluation across multi-level systems. Combines field experience, traditional classroom, field supervision, online activities and assignments, and self-directed learning per the field practicum manual.
SW 6940. Advanced Field Practicum II. (2 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program
Continues agency-based field instruction and classroom seminar for advanced learning and practice opportunities relevant to social work. Provides opportunity to integrate and apply advanced generalist practice theory within field experiences. Increases knowledge and skills in practice, research, and evaluation across multi-level systems. Combines field experience, traditional classroom, field supervision, online activities, assignments, and self-directed learning per the field practicum manual.
Continues agency-based field instruction and classroom seminar for advanced learning and practice opportunities relevant to social work. Provides opportunity to integrate and apply advanced generalist practice theory within field experiences. Increases knowledge and skills in practice, research, and evaluation across multi-level systems. Combines field experience, traditional classroom, field supervision, online activities, assignments, and self-directed learning per the field practicum manual.
SW 6945. Supplemental Field Practicum. (1-4 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6940 or departmental approval
Agency-based field instruction for advanced learning and practice opportunities relevant to social work. Provides opportunity to integrate and apply advanced generalist practice theory within field experiences. Increases knowledge and skills in practice, research, and evaluation across multi-level systems. Combines field experience, field supervision, and self-directed learning per the field practicum manual. May be repeated for a maximum of 4 credits toward graduation.
Agency-based field instruction for advanced learning and practice opportunities relevant to social work. Provides opportunity to integrate and apply advanced generalist practice theory within field experiences. Increases knowledge and skills in practice, research, and evaluation across multi-level systems. Combines field experience, field supervision, and self-directed learning per the field practicum manual. May be repeated for a maximum of 4 credits toward graduation.
SW 6950. Advanced Applied Research--MSW Capstone. (3 Credits)
Prerequisite(s): SW 6000, SW 6300, and SW 6400 or admission into the Advanced Standing MSW Program
Teaches the knowledge and skills required to engage in practice-informed research across systems levels and stages of the social work helping process. Teaches the format of an empirical research poster presentation for a peer-reviewed conference. Synthesizes coursework throughout the MSW curriculum in alignment with the advanced competencies of the MSW program.
Teaches the knowledge and skills required to engage in practice-informed research across systems levels and stages of the social work helping process. Teaches the format of an empirical research poster presentation for a peer-reviewed conference. Synthesizes coursework throughout the MSW curriculum in alignment with the advanced competencies of the MSW program.