Social Work (SWK)

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.