SWK - Social Work

This course provides an overview of professional social work, career pathways and future trends. It examines the historical development of the profession of social work; introduces the profession’s values, ethics, and theoretical and practice principles; examines the major intervention methods of social practice; identifies the generalist base of social work practice; and explores the social service delivery networks which comprise the social welfare system in diverse environments. Social work’s historic commitment to social justice and to human and community well-being is integrated throughout the course. Pre-requisite(s): ENG 101. Co- requisite(s): None. 5 quarter hours

This course is the first of a two-course sequence that examines human behavior and bio-psycho-social development of diverse individuals and families across the life-span, within the context of a strengths and empowerment perspective. Students will explore the interaction between the social environment and human development, with an emphasis on the life stages of infancy, childhood, and adolescence. The course emphasizes social factors that facilitate or encumber human development, well-being and resiliency, and the role of Social Work practitioners in engaging with these factors/systems. The course makes important linkages between theory, practice, and research, specifically in critiquing theories and evaluating factors that influence person-in-environment functioning across micro, mezzo, and macro contexts. Pre-requisite(s): PSY 101, SOC 101. Co-requisite(s): None. 5 quarter hours

This course is the second of a two-course sequence that examines human behavior and bio-psycho-social development of diverse individuals and families across the life-span, within the context of a strengths and empowerment perspective. Students will explore the interaction between the social environment and human development, with an emphasis on the life stages of young adult through old age. The course emphasizes social factors that facilitate or encumber human development, well-being and resiliency, and the advocacy role of Social Work practitioners in engaging with these systemic factors. The course makes important linkages between theory, practice, and research, specifically in critiquing theories and evaluating factors that influence person-in-environment functioning across micro, mezzo, and macro contexts. Pre-requisite(s): SWK 200. Co-requisite(s): None. 5 quarter hours

In this course, students develop the foundational critical theoretical knowledge, attitudes, and self-awareness needed to engage in social justice–oriented, culturally grounded practice. The course explores and analyzes forms of diversity, oppression, and privilege through a feminist, intersectional identity framework, and how they are manifested at the micro, mezzo, and macro practice levels, with an emphasis on racial equity and social justice. Lived experiences of people with intersecting identities are examined, to identify how service delivery models, policies, laws, and culture impact different groups. Students are engaged in building critical cultural consciousness for direct practice, advocacy and social change, and developing culturally sensitive practices to manage bias and privilege, with a focus on inclusion and equity in service delivery, organizational culture, social policy development and systemic advocacy. Pre-requisite(s): None. Co-requisite(s): SWK 200. 5 quarter hours

This course introduces students to generalist foundation knowledge, conceptual frameworks, and a core set of interpersonal practice skills for engagement in culturally grounded practice with individuals and families. Theoretical, cultural and historical perspectives on family and personhood are considered for their relevance for justice-oriented interventions in the context of community. Throughout the course, Social Work values, ethics and practice models/roles are applied to understanding individuals and families and engaging in processes of change. Pre-requisite(s): SWK 200, SWK 301. Co-requisite(s): None. 5 quarter hours

This course incorporates practice, theory and research about group dynamics, structure and process, participant role influences, and the foundational skills of group facilitation and evaluation. Effective participation in and facilitation of task and therapeutic groups are addressed comprehensively, with emphasis on engaging diversity and difference, inter-professional collaboration and leadership. Simulated experiences with models of group practice in varied settings and scenarios, group work with underserved populations, and cooperative skills practice are integrated into the development of knowledge, values and skills needed for generalist social work practice with groups. Pre-requisite(s): SWK 200 and SWK 301. Co-requisite(s): None. 5 quarter hours

This course prepares students for macro-level social work practice roles, by examining and applying the theories, knowledge, fundamental skills and methods necessary to engage successfully with organizations and communities. Development of Social Work practice competencies of collaboration, assessment, planning, empowerment, mobilization and advocacy to effect social change will be emphasized. Ethical and legal obligations, and the commitment to equity and social justice that guide social work practice will be incorporated. The course is designed to help students know and further develop the analytical and empirical skills needed to effectively manage and advocate with and on behalf of different communities including organizations, place and non-place based communities, and policy makers. Pre-requisite(s): SWK 200 and SWK 301. Co-requisite(s): None. 5 quarter hours

This course examines the scope and impact of social welfare policies and the advocacy role of social workers in influencing social policy. Students will analyze the develop stages of social policy, and consider the social, political, and economic context of policy development. This course specifically examines the role that culture, ideology, power, special interest groups, and social movements have played in shaping the context of social welfare policy. Consistent with the social justice commitment of social work, the impact of institutional structures and policies on individuals, groups, and society will be addressed, with particular attention given to oppressed and marginalized and minoritized populations. Pre-requisite(s): SWK 304. Co-requisite(s): None. 5 quarter hours