Social Work

An introduction and broad overview of the social work profession. Its beginnings and growth to worldwide recognition are traced. Key people, movements and practices are noted. Fields of practice are especially emphasized. Includes concurrent experiential learning through service in the local community. Provides a picture of what it means to have a career in social work.

This course is an overview of the phenomenon of addictions. The course will survey various types of addictions such as alcoholism, drug addiction, internet addictions, eating disorders and hoarding. Consideration will be given to the etiology, symptomatology, prevention, treatment and relapse prevention options in the addictions field. The biological psychological, social and spiritual implications of addiction will be examined.
Prerequisite: PYX 111 or SOX 111

Foundational course of a three-course sequence in preparation for generalist social work practice. Focuses on application of theoretical approaches and interpersonal skills in a problem-solving model. Professional values and ethical decision making are introduced and applied through the use of case studies. Cultural competence and empowerment of client systems are emphasized. Research application to evaluation of practice is included. Concurrent experiential learning component.
Prerequisites: SWX 171 and SOX 111

Second of a three-course sequence in preparation for generalist social work practice. Content learned in the first practice course is applied specifically to families and groups within a life span development approach. Class provides opportunities for practice group membership and leadership skills. Particular emphasis on issues of diversity in families, group stages and group dynamics.
Prerequisites: SWX 325 and PYX 321

Builds upon basic understanding of the political system, economic theories and social welfare institutions in identifying and analyzing current social welfare policies and programs. Current federal and state proposed legislation is identified and followed. Implications for social work practice are noted.
Prerequisite: SOX 333

Field experience in a cross-cultural setting anywhere in the world. Intended to provide direct experience in living and working in an intercultural setting. Individual experiences must be approved by the department.
Students must complete SW 395 prior to formal acceptance into the Social Work Program.
Prerequisite: Social work major

Final of a three-course sequence in preparation for generalist social work practice. Theoretical concepts, skills, values and ethics are applied to work with communities and organizations. Particular emphasis is placed on community assessment and planning. A grant writing workshop and experiential applications with community social service providers are included.
Prerequisite: SWX 345

This course focuses on the interview process used in professional helping relationships. Each student will be involved in class role plays, taped interview sessions with mock clients and simulated job interviews. Interviews will be videotaped and critiqued within the learning context. Professional documentation skills related to these settings will be developed. Personal resume will be completed for professional use.
Prerequisite: PYX 321

Capstone course in human behavior and the social environment utilizing a bio-psycho-social-spiritual perspective. Theoretical perspectives, cultural diversity, oppression and socialization are revisited as various pervasive issues and topics are investigated, discussed and applied to social work practice. Topics covered are chosen from among the following: lifespan development, violence, substance abuse and addictions, disabilities, gender issues, elders and immigrant populations.
Prerequisites: BIX 111, PYX 211, 215, and SOX 321

This course is the culminating experience for the social work major in the form of a block field experience in a professional social work setting under the supervision of a field instructor with an MSW or BSW credential and at least three years of successful practice experience. The actual field placement is preceded by a comprehensive evaluation and orientation to the field placement. Professional seminars will be held throughout the practicum experience with professors and peer students. Required hours in the filed placement is 400 hours. This course is open only to social work majors who have satisfactorily completed all required courses in the social work major.
Prerequisite: Completion of all courses required in the social work major