Social Work (SCWK)

SCWK 1510    Introduction to Social Work    3 s.h.

An overview of the values, systems, policy, theories and concepts central to the profession of social work. This course will also review roles, licensure requirements and history of the social work profession. This is the first course orienting students to the social work profession.

SCWK 2600    Health Issues for Social Work Practice    3 s.h.

Explores impact of physical and biological forces on client issues/needs and importance of understanding these factors for professional social work practice. Emphasis given to biological development across the human lifespan, ecological issues, genetic influences, health concerns.

SCWK 2622    Social Work Processes    3 s.h.

Addresses the full range of communication skills in systems of all sizes for professional social work practice. Includes principles of effective communication, functions and purposes of communication, and the roles of social workers. Thirty clock hours of volunteer engagement required. Three hours lecture.
Prereq.: SCWK 1510.

SCWK 2641    American Social Welfare    3 s.h.

Overview of the history and evolution of social welfare programs and services in America. Emphasis on the identification and interrelationships of social values and structures, political factors, and economic conditions on resource allocation, including meeting the needs of special populations.

SCWK 2642    Human Behavior and the Social Environment for Social Workers 1    3 s.h.

A general social systems approach as a conceptual framework to the understanding of culture and society, communities, organizations, groups, families, and individuals as they develop over the lifespan. Application of theory and research to social work.

SCWK 2644    Human Behavior and the Social Environment for Social Workers 2    3 s.h.

An ecosystems perspective in understanding families, groups, organizations and communities. Focus on individuals and their transactions with each other and their environment. Application of theory and research to social work.

SCWK 3720    Cultural Diversity    3 s.h.

This course emphasizes understanding the experiences, values, beliefs, and inherent problems of racial, ethnic, and other vulnerable population groups. The course focuses on groups affected by socioeconomic disparities, gender, sexual orientation and expression, religion, physical and cognitive challenges, and age. Students will be asked to apply theories, use differential assessments, and develop and use intervention skills necessary for effective social work practice with a diverse population.

SCWK 3726    Child Welfare and Case Planning    3 s.h.

This course provides the knowledge, concepts, and skills needed for beginning level social work practice in public and child welfare settings. Major focus is on protecting at-risk children by strengthening, supporting and empowering families.
Prereq.: SCWK 1510.

SCWK 3727    Child Welfare Permanency Planning    3 s.h.

Provides the knowledge, concepts, and skills needed for beginning level social work practice in public child welfare settings. Major focus is on the developmental needs and permanency planning associated with at-risk children served by the child welfare system.
Prereq.: SCWK 1510.

SCWK 3736    Social Work Methods with Individuals    3 s.h.

Overview of generalist practice methods with client systems of varying sizes. In-depth analysis of problem solving strategies and skills in working with individuals. Theory and research relating to practice. Social work purposes, functions, and values are addressed from the systems perspective.
Prereq.: Admission to SCWK Program.

SCWK 3737    Social Work Methods with Groups    3 s.h.

In-depth analysis of problem-solving strategies and skills in working with small groups. Theory and research relating to practice. Social work purpose, functions, and values are addressed for the systems perspective.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.

SCWK 3738    Social Work Methods with Families    3 s.h.

In-depth analysis of problem-solving strategies and skills in working with families. Theory and research relating to practice. Social work purposes, functions, and values are addressed from the systems perspective.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.

SCWK 3739    Social Work Methods with Communities and Organizations    3 s.h.

This course presents an in-depth analysis of problem-solving strategies and skills in working with organizations and communities. Theory and research relating to practice will be examined. Social Work purpose, functions, and values are addressed from the systems perspective.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.

SCWK 3740    Mental Health and Addictions    3 s.h.

This course focuses on the study of mental health and addictions in the Social Work discipline. The course includes social work theory, practice and service delivery methods, and research. Policy considerations will also be addressed.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.

SCWK 3742    Substance Use & Recovery    3 s.h.

This course explores traditional and contemporary theories related to substance misuse and substance use disorders. Students will develop beginning-level practice application skills for intervening with individuals regarding their substance misuse. The course surveys a range of evidence-based approaches to: screening, assessment, and diagnosis of substance misuse/substance use disorder and related problems; determining the nature and severity of problems associated with substance use; evaluating readiness to change; and, treatment planning and intervention to ameliorate substance use problems. Content of this course meets the forty (40) hours of chemical dependency specific education in: theories of addiction (5 hours), counseling procedures and strategies with addicted populations (14 hours), group process and techniques working with addicted populations (5 hours), assessment and diagnosis of addiction (3 hours), treatment planning (7 hours), ethics (6 hours). Three hour lecture per week.

SCWK 3743    Mental Health    3 s.h.

This course will provide students with knowledge and skills in mental health treatment, with an emphasis on understanding people with mental illnesses. Students will learn how to: use the DSM to assess and diagnose clients; conduct case conceptualization; conduct a mental status exam; write a narrative diagnostic summary; and develop a basic understanding of psychiatric medications.
Prereq.: Social Work Major.

SCWK 3760    Research Methods for Social Workers    3 s.h.

Quantitative and Qualitative research methodologies for building knowledge for social work practice. Systematic evaluation of outcomes, theoretical bases, relevant technological advances, and ethical standards.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors.

SCWK 3770    Social Policy    3 s.h.

Review of the programs, structures and functions of social services including historical development and social, political and economic issues. Application of scientific method to analyze and develop social work policies designed to achieve social work goals and purpose.

SCWK 4820    Special Topics Elective in Social Work    1-6 s.h.

An examination of various social work topics and issues of both current and long standing interest.
Prereq.: BSW Student or permission of the BSW coordinator.

SCWK 4821    BSW Independent Study    1-6 s.h.

This course involves study under the personal supervision of a faculty member with the approval of the BSW Coordinator. The course demands that student and faculty member choose a topic related to the Social Work field. For successful completion students will tie the topic to at least three different CSWE.
Prereq.: BSW Student.

SCWK 4825    Field Work in Social Services    6 s.h.

Professionally supervised practice in an approved social agency. The student must complete 225 hours per semester in an agency for each 6 s.h. of credit. Must be taken two consecutive semesters for a total of 12 s.h. CR/NC grade option only.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.

SCWK 4826    Integrated Field Work Seminar    3 s.h.

Integration and evaluation of conceptual, affective, and experiential learning achieved from previous social work courses and field-based assignments. Concurrent: SCWK 4825 first enrollment.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.

SCWK 4827    Integrated Capstone Seminar    3 s.h.

Provides opportunities to synthesize and integrate all the previous coursework from social work education. Includes both theoretical and experiential assignments to assist students with increased self awareness and to prepare them for the transition from college to entry-level generalist practice. Concurrent: SCWK 4825 second enrollment.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.
Gen Ed: Capstone.

SCWK 4860    Seminar Special Topics in Social Work    1-3 s.h.

Study of selected topics in social work theory, methods and research. May be repeated with different topics.
Prereq.: Junior standing or permission of instructor.

SCWK 6900    Human Behavior and the Social Environment 1    3 s.h.

An overview of normal individual development throughout the life span. Developmental stages, tasks, and circumstances as well as diversity in individual development will be examined. The influence of biological, psychological, and social systems on individual development throughout the life span constitutes the organizing theme for the course.

SCWK 6901    Oppression and Cultural Competence    3 s.h.

Examination of the history, demographic trends, and cultures of diverse groups who have been disenfranchised based on differences that include race, gender, age, socioeconomic class, sexual orientation, religion, and ability. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the experience of oppression among diverse groups and the implications for social work practice.

SCWK 6902    Social Welfare Policy and Program Analysis    3 s.h.

An historical perspective on the development of social problems as well as a critical analysis of social welfare institutions, programs, policy efforts, and services. Attention is given to the consequences of social and economic injustice and the effects that policy initiatives have upon vulnerable populations.

SCWK 6903    Social Work Foundation Practice 1    3 s.h.

A foundation methods course based on an advanced generalist social work practice perspective. This course demonstrates application of the problem-solving process or the planned change process in the context of the strengths perspective. Attention will be placed on planning interventions with diverse individuals, families, and small groups.

SCWK 6904    Field Education 1    3 s.h.

Professionally supervised practice in approved community agencies. Focus will be on increasing the student's analytic skills and repertoire of intervention modalities. The course is based on foundation coursework that emphasizes advanced generalist practice while promoting a strengths-based approach. Concurrent: SCWK 6903.

SCWK 6905    Human Behavior and the Social Environment 2    3 s.h.

An overview of theories and knowledge of the behavior of groups, organizations, and communities as well as the impact of these systems on individual behavior. Special emphasis is given to understanding the influence of mesosystems and macrosystems on social service organizations. Empowerment-based policies are explored.
Prereq.: SCWK 6900.

SCWK 6906    Business Skills for Social Workers    3 s.h.

Overview of the principles, concepts, and terminology related to social work business practice. Topics include time management, financially responsible practice, managed care issues, organizational efficiency and effectiveness, outcome measurements, performance evaluation, marketing for nonprofit organizations, community building and collaborative efforts. State-of-the-art technology will be reviewed.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.

SCWK 6907    Social Work Foundation Practice 2    3 s.h.

A foundation methods course based on an advanced generalist social work practice perspective. This course demonstrates application of the problem-solving process or planned change process in the context of the strengths perspective. Attention will be placed on planning interventions with diverse organizations and communities.
Prereq.: SCWK 6903.

SCWK 6909    Field Education 2    3 s.h.

Professionally supervised practice in approved community agencies. Focus will be on increasing both the student's analytic skills and repertoire of intervention modalities. The course is based on foundation coursework that emphasizes advanced generalist practice while promoting a strengths-based approach. Concurrent: SCWK 6907.

SCWK 6910    Integrated Foundation    3 s.h.

An advanced course that emphasizes social work values, ethical dilemmas/implications, and the development of practice methods that integrate a strengths-based empowerment approach with individuals, families, and groups.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.

SCWK 7000    Advanced Direct Practice 1    3 s.h.

The development of adversities experienced by individuals from conception through adulthood. The course employs a multisystems ecological perspective in discussing risk conditions, stressful life events, and the interplay of risk and protective factors that appear to be common to many childhood disorders and problems.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.

SCWK 7001    Substance Use Recovery Practices in Social Work    3 s.h.

This course explores traditional and contemporary theories related to substance misuse and substance use disorders. Students will develop beginning-level practice application skills for intervening with individuals regarding their substance misuse. The course surveys a range of evidence-based approaches to: screening, assessment, and diagnosis of substance misuse/substance use disorder and related problems; determining the nature and severity of problems associated with substance use; evaluating readiness to change; and, treatment planning and intervention to ameliorate substance use problems. Content of this course meets the 40 hours of chemical dependency specific education in: theories of addiction, counseling procedures and strategies with addicted populations, group process and techniques working with addicted populations, assessment and diagnosis of addiction, treatment planning, ethics. Throughout the course we practice the ethical and professional use of language related to substance misuse, as well individuals engaged in addictive behavior and experiencing substance use disorders.
Prereq.: MSW student.

SCWK 7002    Trauma Informed Practices in Social Work    3 s.h.

Students will learn about trauma in a way that is relevant to clinical work through a bio-psycho-social-spiritual lens. The course will assist students in developing beginning trauma competency in clinical social work practice by introducing students to the core concepts (general theory and foundational knowledge), informing evidence-based assessment and treatment for trauma-informed care. Strength-based and empowerment practices will be highlighted along with a focus on the identification of protective and promotive factors that foster resiliency and post-traumatic growth.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.

SCWK 7003    Theory and Practice of Supervision    3 s.h.

Explores advanced techniques for evaluating systems of all sizes. Methods and strategies for conducting program evaluation and single system research will be emphasized. Special emphasis will be placed on developing strengths-based performance indicators.
Prereq.: Social Work Majors Only.

SCWK 7008    Social Work and the DSM    3 s.h.

This course examines social work in mental health and chemical dependency with an emphasis on the DSM and ICD. Application of assessment is through a bio-psycho-social-spiritual perspective with a focus on current practices.

SCWK 7009    Field Education 3    3 s.h.

A continuation of SCWK 7000 Advanced Direct Practice I. In addition to developing practice methods that integrate a strengths-based empowerment approach with individuals, this course incorporates theoretical frameworks and constructs from empowerment theory, the ecological perspective, solution-focused practice, the feminist perspective, person-centered practice, and other relevant, brief practice approaches.
Prereq.: SCWK 7000.

SCWK 7010    Advanced Direct Practice 2    3 s.h.

Advanced field education placement. Students participate in planned experiences that integrate theoretical knowledge, social work practice skills, and social work ethics and values in direct or macro practice settings. Theoretical frameworks address micro and macro concerns respectively by emphasizing empowerment, individual strengths, solution- focused practice, community building, collaboration and organizational structures.

SCWK 7012    Field Education 4    3 s.h.

Field Education IV. This course provides opportunities for students to synthesize and integrate previous coursework from their social work education. Theoretical and experiential assignments are utilized to assist students with increased self-awareness and to prepare them for the transition from college to advanced professional social work practice that emphasizes the strengths-based approach.

SCWK 7013    Capstone    3 s.h.

Advanced seminar on selected topics in social work theory, methods, and research. May be repeated with different topics.

SCWK 7014    Selected Topics in Social Work    3 s.h.

SCWK 7017    Advanced Treatment Planning and Outcomes    3 s.h.

This course explores advanced techniques for evaluating practice in the field. Scientific methods are applied to the evaluation of social work practice and social work interventions are analyzed. Attention is placed on the student’s ability to identify research based treatment modalities and outcomes. Single system design methods will be emphasized. Strengths-based performance indicators are highlighted.
Prereq.: MSW student.

SCWK 7020    Special Topics Elective in Social Work    1-6 s.h.

An examination of various social work topics and issues of both current and long-standing interest.

SCWK 7021    MSW Independent Study    1-6 s.h.

This course involves study under the personal supervision of a faculty member with the approval of the MSW Coordinator. The course demands that student and faculty member choose a topic related to the Social Work field. For successful completion students will tie the topic to at least three different CSWE educational competencies.
Prereq.: MSW Student.