Social Work (SWK)

Courses

SWK 255. Introduction to Social Work: Changing Lives Changing Society. 3 Credits.

The course provides: an introduction to the social work profession and its promotion of social and economic justice to advance human rights, alleviate critical social problems, and promote wellbeing. This course explores fields of practice, the profession's values and ethics and its policy history. Students will have the opportunity to assess their own identities, strengths, and challenges and demonstrate self-awareness as they prepare to work with a diverse society. F,S,SS.

SWK 257. Human Behavior and the Social Environment I. 3 Credits.

SWK 257 (HBSE I) examines the changes in human behavior over the life course from a multi-theoretical approach that reflects biological, psychological, social, and cultural perspectives. Understanding the differential impact of these theories over the life course develops student competency in their interactions with various client systems (e.g. individuals, families, and groups). Students will critique these theories and research findings using social work values and ethics by prioritizing issues related to diversity and populations at risk. In fulfillment of the Digital Information Literacy requirements of the Essential Studies program, students will carry out select graded assignments using AI tools and reflect on their application. Throughout the course, students will practice using AI to brainstorm and generate insights to understand course content, while exploring the practicality of using AI. Corequisite: PSYC 111 and SOC 110. F,S,SS.

SWK 311. Child Welfare. 3 Credits.

Overview of child welfare history, Indian Child Welfare Act, children's rights, Child Protection Services, Family Preservation Case Management, Foster Care Case Management, Juvenile Court procedures, Adoptions Services. S.

SWK 313. Orientation to Gerontology. 2 Credits.

This course introduces students to the field of gerontology, emphasizing the unique needs and experiences of older adults. Students will explore key theories of ageing, the demographic trends influencing the aging populations and the role of interdisciplinary teams in supporting the needs of old adults. The course covers various programs and services designed to enhance the quality of life for older individuals. Students will gain insight into the complexities of aging and the importance of a holistic, collaborative approach in gerontological practice. F.

SWK 315. Substance Use and Abuse. 2 Credits.

This course offers a comprehensive examination of substance use and its societal implications, providing students with a nuanced understanding of its dynamics. Through critical analysis and discussion, students will explore historical perspectives and current policies related to substance use and addiction. The course emphasizes a holistic approach to treatment, addressing the physical, social, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of substance use. Students will learn essential theories, techniques, and concepts including application of the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) criteria and the ethical standards of the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC). S.

SWK 316. Interprofessional Health Care. 1 Credit.

The emphasis is on learning to work effectively on a team, and the unique contributions of different professions, using a shared patient-centered approach in health care delivery. Disciplines included: social work, physical therapy, nursing, occupational therapy, medicine, communication science disorders, nutrition and dietetics, and counseling psychology. Prerequisite: Admission to the BSSW Program. S/U grading. F,S.

SWK 317. Social Work Research. 3 Credits.

This course equips students with a foundational understanding of both qualitative and quantitative research methods, emphasizing their application in enhancing social work practice. Students will explore the integration of research-informed practice and practice-informed research, developing critical thinking skills and ethical principles essential for conducting research in social work. With an emphasis on diversity and respect for clients with different cultures and values, the course covers key research methodologies, including study design, data analysis, and the evaluation of interventions and services. Students will learn to assess problems, critique existing literature, analyze and present data, and monitor and evaluate social work practices and outcomes. Prerequisite: Admission to the BSSW Program. Prerequisite or Corequisite: Statistics. F,S.

SWK 318. Mental Health. 2 Credits.

Overview of the mental health service delivery system with a focus on case management skills and the role of social work in the provision of mental health services. F.

SWK 321. Direct Practice of Financial Social Work. 2 Credits.

This course prepares students to engage, assess, and intervene in diverse settings among individuals and families experiencing financial hardship. The course will use a dual approach to building financial capability with skills and understanding of issues facing vulnerable populations. F,SS.

SWK 323. Trauma-Informed Care. 2 Credits.

This course will provide basic, foundational knowledge and awareness of trauma. Exploration of factors known to promote resilience and well-being will be examined and emphasized throughout the course. Prerequisite: SWK 255 or consent of instructor. On demand.

SWK 325. Assessment Techniques and Tools. 2 Credits.

This course provides students with both foundational theoretical knowledge and practical skills for conducting assessments in social work practice. Emphasizing person-in-environment and cultural competence, the course prepares students to evaluate clients holistically, formulate appropriate intervention plans, and apply evidence-based practices. Through lectures, case studies, role-playing, and hands-on applications, students will build skills for performing thorough, ethical, and culturally responsive assessments, essential for effective social work practice. Prerequisite: Admission to the Social Work Program. On demand.

SWK 357. Human Behavior and the Social Environment II. 3 Credits.

This course explores the application of social work theory and research across the life span, emphasizing social systems theory as the core conceptual framework. Students will examine the development of groups, communities, organizations, and society, expanding on prior knowledge of human behavior. Building on the micro system human behavior concepts taught in SWK 257 (Human Behavior in the Social Environment I), this course completes the theoretical foundation for generalist practice by incorporating macro systems content, along with material related to rural social work practice, cultural competence, and the strengths perspective across all levels of practice. Prerequisite: Admission in the BSSW Program. F,S.

SWK 360. Human Service Experience. 2 Credits.

This course introduces students to social work practice with an emphasis on hands-on learning through human service volunteer experience. Students will engage in direct service activities in community organizations under the supervision of experienced social workers. Through this experiential learning component, students will develop foundational skills in client assessment, advocacy, and intervention strategies. Prerequisite: Admission to the BSSW social work program. F,S.

SWK 364. Diversity, Social Justice, and Culturally Competent Social Work Practice. 2 Credits.

This course explores the core concepts of diversity, social justice, and cultural competence in social work practice. Students will critically examine the dynamics of oppression, discrimination, and privilege in society, as well as their impact on marginalized populations. The course focuses on the intersection of social identities, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, ability, religion, and socioeconomic status, while developing the skills needed for culturally responsive and socially just practice. Through case studies, discussions, and experiential activities, students will gain the ability to apply culturally competent frameworks and advocate for equity and justice in social work settings. Students will engage in self-reflection, explore their own biases, and learn how to address power imbalances in professional relationships. This course emphasizes ethical social work practice grounded in respect for human diversity and the commitment to challenging systems of oppression. Prerequisite: Admission to the BSSW Program. F,S.

SWK 397. Cooperative Education. 1-6 Credits.

Individually supervised experiences in a human service agency. Integrates social work theory with practice. Contact the Cooperative Education Office. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. S/U grading. F,S,SS.

SWK 424. Generalist Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families. 3 Credits.

This course is an introduction to knowledge, values, and skills related to practice with individuals and families. Students will learn and demonstrate engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation methodologies and strategies with individuals and families with a special emphasis on diverse populations and ethical social work practice. Prerequisite: Admission to the BSSW Program, SWK 317, and SWK 357. F,S.

SWK 434. Generalist Social Work Practice with Task and Treatment Groups. 3 Credits.

This course explores groups within the context of evidence-based interventions in social work. Students will learn and practice: group dynamics, development, leadership, intervention strategies and ethical practice with diverse populations. Students will acquire knowledge and skills to engage, assess, plan, intervene and evaluate groups in social work practice. Prerequisite: Admission to the BSSW Program, SWK 317, and SWK 357. F,S.

SWK 442. Social Policy. 3 Credits.

This course equips students with the essential knowledge, values, and skills in social policy. Students will cultivate critical analysis abilities to promote economic and social justice, gaining insights into the interconnectedness of research, policy, and advocacy for practice with vulnerable populations. Prerequisite: Admission in the BSSW Program, SWK 317, and SWK 357. F,S.

SWK 454. Generalist Social Work Practice with Communities and Organizations. 3 Credits.

This course emphasizes the application of evidence-based interventions. Students will acquire essential skills in engaging with diverse groups, conducting thorough assessments, designing, and implementing effective interventions, and evaluating outcomes withing community and organizational context. The course highlights the importance of cultural competence, ethical practice, and the integration of social justice principles in working with varied populations. Students will explore strategies for advocacy and collaboration to promote systemic change. Prerequisite: Admission to the BSSW program, SWK 317, and SWK 357. F,S.

SWK 481. Field Education I. 5 Credits.

Field Education provides learning opportunities in generalist social work practice using the problem-solving processes within the strengths and ecological systems perspectives. Field Education provides students the opportunity to integrate direct practice with acquired conceptional and theoretical knowledge and skills. Internships will be supervised by a social worker at an approved agency. Students completing their internship in one semester must enroll in SWK 481, SWK 482, SWK 483, and SWK 484. Students completing their internship over two semesters will enroll in SWK 481 and SWK 482 for their first semester in their internship and enroll in SWK 483 and SWK 484 during their second semester. Prerequisite: Admission to field program; to be taken after all other social work courses have been completed. Corequisite: SWK 482. S/U grading. F,S,SS.

SWK 482. Field Education Seminar I. 1 Credit.

This course promotes the integration of generalist social work knowledge, values, and skills through the synthesis of academic knowledge with experiential learning. Course content includes the intersection of contemplative practices and the core social work values of dignity, relationships, service, social justice, integrity, and competence. Field Education Seminar facilitates the integration of practice experience, NASW Code of Ethics, CSWE Competencies and the personal/professional development of the student. Students completing their internship in one semester must enroll in SWK 481, SWK 482, SWK 483, and SWK 484. Students completing their internship over two semesters will enroll in SWK 481 and SWK 482 for their first semester in their internship and enroll in SWK 483 and SWK 484 during their second semester. Corequisite: SWK 481. F,S,SS.

SWK 483. Field Education II. 5 Credits.

Field Education provides learning opportunities in generalist social work practice using the problem-solving processes within the strengths and ecological systems perspectives. Field Education provides students the opportunity to integrate direct practice with acquired conceptional and theoretical knowledge and skills. SWK 483 and SWK 484 are the capstone courses for social work education. Internships will be supervised by a social worker at an approved agency. Students completing their internship in one semester must enroll in SWK 481, SWK 482, SWK 483, and SWK 484. Students completing their internship over two semesters will enroll in SWK 481 and SWK 482 for their first semester in their internship and enroll in SWK 483 and SWK 484 during their second semester. Prerequisite: Admission to Field Program; to be taken after all other social work courses have been completed. Corequisite: SWK 484. Prerequisite or Corequisite: SWK 481. S/U grading. F,S,SS.

SWK 484. Field Education Seminar II. 1 Credit.

SWK 489. Senior Honors Thesis. 1-3 Credits.

Supervised independent study culminating in a thesis. Repeatable to a maximum 6 credits. Repeatable to 6.00 credits. F,S.

SWK 493A. Special Topics. 1-3 Credits.

Individually or group supervised research or interdepartmental studies and seminars in social work related areas. Repeatable to a maximum 9 credits. Regular grading. Prerequisite: SWK 255 or consent of instructor. Repeatable to 9.00 credits. F,S,SS.

SWK 493B. Special Topics. 1-3 Credits.

Individually or group supervised research or interdepartmental studies and seminars in social work related areas. Repeatable to a maximum 9 credits. S-U grading. Repeatable to 9.00 credits. S/U grading. F,S,SS.

SWK 501. Human Behavior in the Social Environment I. 2 Credits.

Generalist Human Behavior in the Social Environment I (HBSE I) provides students with foundational knowledge relevant to human life span development, and an introduction to social work systems perspectives. Students critique and apply various frameworks to case scenarios that exemplify client differences in biological, psychological, social, spiritual, and cultural domains. Prerequisite: Admission to the MSW program. Prerequisite or Corequisite: SWK 507.

SWK 502. Human Behavior in the Social Environment II. 2 Credits.

In Human Behavior and the Social Environment II (HBSE II), students acquire foundational knowledge of social work theories relevant to group, community, and organizational practice. The course emphasizes applications of theory to practice for purposes of enhancing economic, social, and environmental well-being. Students learn to recognize diversity through multiple factors, and deepen understanding of how these differences can influence poverty and marginalization, as well as power and privilege. Prerequisite: Admission to the MSW program. Prerequisite or Corequisite: SWK 507.

SWK 503. Generalist Practice with Individuals and Families. 2 Credits.

Generalist Practice with Individuals and Families provides foundational knowledge, values, and skill development for generalist social work practice with individuals and families using a strengths-based perspective. Students develop skills in relationship-building, assuming collaborative partnerships, describing problems, accessing resources, developing intervention plans, and evaluating progress with individuals and families. Prerequisite: Admission to the MSW program. Prerequisite or Corequisite: SWK 501.

SWK 504. Generalist Practice with Treatment and Task Groups. 2 Credits.

In Generalist Practice with Treatment and Task Groups, student develop foundational knowledge, values, and skills necessary for assessing, intervening, and evaluating with the context of group practice. The course emphasizes the identification, analysis, and implementation of evidence-based interventions. Students also learn to apply a social justice framework to group practice. Corequisite: SWK 501 and SWK 502.

SWK 505. Generalist Practice with Communities and Organizations. 2 Credits.

Generalist Practice with Communities and Organizations acquaints students with the historical roots of social work in community and organizational practice, and with the changing landscape of organizations within the human service sector. Students develop skills relevant to engaging, assessing, intervening, and evaluating community and organizational practice and develop strategies for macro-practice with diverse populations. Prerequisite or Corequisite: SWK 502.

SWK 506. Social Policy. 2 Credits.

Provides a basic understanding of the history and current patterns of social welfare services in the United States. Students apply a policy analysis framework to identify key issues, understand policy development, and assess the role of social policies and political processes on the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Students also learn to identify opportunities for actively engaging in the policy arena. Prerequisite: Admission to the MSW program.

SWK 507. Generalist Research Methods and Analysis. 2 Credits.

This introductory course provides students with foundational knowledge of research methods and analysis, and prepares them for the development of advanced research skills. Students gain knowledge of the methods of scientific inquiry and how to construct and utilize evidence-informed research for practice. The course emphasizes ethical approaches to research and the effective communication of empirically-based knowledge. Prerequisite: Admission to the MSW program.

SWK 515. Generalist Practice Field Education I. 3 Credits.

Generalist field internship placement in a human service organization. Students apply foundation coursework, emphasizing core competencies and demonstration of practice behaviors. Prerequisite: Admission to field program. Corequisite: SWK 516. S/U grading. F.

SWK 516. Generalist Practice Field Education Seminar I. 1 Credit.

Integration of foundation coursework with field internship placement in a human service organization. Continued development of identification with the Social Work profession is emphasized, as is application of Social Work ethics and values. Corequisite: SWK 515. F.

SWK 517. Generalist Practice Field Education II. 5 Credits.

SWK 518. Generalist Practice Field Education Seminar II. 1 Credit.

SWK 527. Advanced Generalist Human Behavior and the Social Environment I. 2 Credits.

In Advanced Generalist Human Behavior and the Social Environment I (AG HBSE I), students learn to synthesize and differentially apply relevant conceptual frameworks to guide advanced generalist practice with individuals and families. This course builds upon developmental theories and the social work ecological and systems perspectives. Prerequisite: Admission to the Advanced Generalist Concentration.

SWK 528. Advanced Generalist Human Behavior and the Social Environment II. 2 Credits.

Advanced Generalist Human Behavior and the Social Environment II (AG HBSE II) considers practice theories in relation to social and economic justice. Complexity theory builds upon traditional social systems theory to provide and advanced framework for analyzing practices within the social, economic, and natural environments. Prerequisite: Admission to the Advanced Generalist Concentration.

SWK 529. Advanced Generalist Research Methods and Analysis. 2 Credits.

Advanced Generalist Research Methods and Analysis prepares students to build on foundation research knowledge to further refine and advance the quality of social work practice and that of the larger social work profession. The course emphasizes program as well as practice evaluation. Students use research methods to generate surveys; learn to choose, utilize, and interpret reliable and valid measurement instruments; and apply both qualitative and statistical analysis. Prerequisite: Admission to the Advanced Generalist Concentration.

SWK 530. Advanced Generalist Practice with Individuals. 2 Credits.

Advanced Generalist Practice with Individuals helps students refine and deepen their conceptual and technical knowledge of social work practice with individuals. The course equips students with advanced generalist skills to guide engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation with individual clients. Course assignments promote ethical and evidence-based practice relevant to diverse populations. Prerequisite: Admission to the Advanced Generalist Concentration. F,SS.

SWK 533. Advanced Generalist Practice with Families. 2 Credits.

Advanced Generalist Practice with Families teaches students advanced generalist skills in working with families to engage, assess, intervene and evaluate client systems. This class builds upon family therapy theories and their practical applications. Activities and assignments build skills necessary to work with families in therapeutic settings. Prerequisite: Admission to the Advanced Generalist Concentration. F,S.

SWK 534. Advanced Generalist Practice with Treatment Groups. 2 Credits.

Advanced Generalist Practice with Treatment Groups uses an interpersonal perspective as a theoretical foundation for understanding group dynamics. Students build upon foundational knowledge and skills, and develop and demonstrate advanced techniques for engaging individuals in the group process, assessing appropriateness for group membership, developing interventions, and evaluating the treatment group process. Prerequisite: Admission to the Advanced Generalist Concentration. F,S.

SWK 535. Advanced Generalist Practice with Communities. 2 Credits.

Advanced Generalist Practice with Communities equips students with theoretical frameworks and models for community and policy practice, and prepares students to be effective change agents and leaders in community contexts. Students develop a deeper social and economic development orientation, and gain a greater understanding of the changing socio-political contexts of practice, including globalization and the human rights movement. Prerequisite: Admission to the Advanced Generalist Concentration. S.

SWK 536. Advanced Generalist Practice with Organizations. 2 Credits.

Advanced Generalist Practice with Organizations develops practice behaviors related to organizational leadership, managing various organizational systems, and developiing an integrated practice approach for the purpose of promoting effective service delivery. Prerequisite: Admission to the Advanced Generalist Concentration. S.

SWK 537. Advanced Generalist Tools for Policy. 1 Credit.

Advanced Generalist Tools for Policy emphasizes the development of skills for effective policy action to promote social, economic, political, and environmental well-being. Prerequisite: Admission to the Advanced Generalist Concentration. S,SS.

SWK 560. Topics Of Social Work Practice. 1-3 Credits.

Repeatable to 9.00 credits.

SWK 580. Advanced Generalist Practice Field Education I. 5 Credits.

Advanced generalist field internship placement in a human service organization. Students apply concentration coursework, emphasizing core competencies and demonstration of practice behaviors. Prerequisite: Admission to field program. Corequisite: SWK 581. S/U grading. F,S,SS.

SWK 581. Advanced Generalist Practice Field Education Seminar I. 1 Credit.

Integration of concentration coursework with field internship placement in a human service organization. Understanding the role of the MSW-Ievel Social Worker is emphasized, as is advanced application of Social Work ethics and values. Corequisite: SWK 580. F,S,SS.

SWK 582. Advanced Generalist Practice Field Education II. 5 Credits.

Advanced generalist field internship placement in a human service organization. Students apply concentration coursework emphasizing core competencies and demonstration of practice behaviors. Corequisite: SWK 583. Prerequisite or Corequisite: SWK 580. S/U grading. F,S,SS.

SWK 583. Advanced Generalist Practice Field Education Seminar II. 1 Credit.

SWK 593. Individual Study. 1-2 Credits.

Variable topics in social work related areas carried out individually or in small groups under the supervision of the instructor. Repeatable for a maximum of 4 credits. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Repeatable to 4.00 credits.

SWK 996. Continuing Enrollment. 1-12 Credits.

Repeatable. S/U grading.

SWK 997. Independent Study. 2 Credits.

SWK 998. Thesis. 2-4 Credits.

Total of 4 credits required in thesis option. Repeatable to 4.00 credits. F,SS.