Social Work (SOCW)
Courses
SOCW 2311. INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL WORK. 3 Hours. (TCCN = SOCW 2361)
An overview of the social work profession, its fields of practice, methods of social intervention, its historical context, and its relationship to the social welfare system. This course is required for admission to the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program.
SOCW 2313. SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE I. 3 Hours.
Critical evaluation of the value base of the social work profession and basic practice concepts including interviewing, communication and problem solving skills at the individual, family, and group levels in diverse settings. This course is required for admission to the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program. Prerequisite: SOCW 2311. Prospective BSW majors only.
SOCW 2325. INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS FOR SOCIAL WORK AND THE SOCIAL SCIENCES. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to enhance students' skills as research consumers and in performing research and statistical analyses in social work and the social sciences. Included in the course are descriptive statistical procedures including measures of central tendency, variability, shape and distribution along with associations between two variables. In addition, inferential statistics are covered including estimation and hypothesis testing.
SOCW 3301. THEORIES OF HUMAN BEHAVIOR. 3 Hours.
This course explores, within the context of a strengths and empowerment perspective, theories of human behavior. For social work majors, it is strongly recommended that SOCW 3302 be taken before this course. Offered as AAST 3301 and SOCW 3301; credit will be granted in only one department. This course is required for Social Work Field Instruction and Seminar I (SOCW 4951).
SOCW 3302. LIFE SPAN DEVELOPMENT AND HUMAN BEHAVIOR. 3 Hours.
This course explores, within the context of a strengths and empowerment based perspective, the bio-psycho-social development of persons from birth to death. It is strongly recommended that this course be taken before SOCW 3301. This course is required for Social Work Field Instruction and Seminar I (SOCW 4951).
SOCW 3303. SOCIAL WELFARE POLICY AND SERVICES. 3 Hours.
Examines how social goals are met by social welfare institutions. Conceptual schemes are developed for analyzing the structure of social welfare institutions and evaluating social welfare sub-systems. The social work profession is also examined in the context of the evolution and function of the contemporary American social welfare system. This course is required for Social Work Field Instruction and Seminar II (SOCW 4952). Prerequisite: SOCW 2311. Prospective BSW majors and BSW majors only.
SOCW 3304. SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE II. 3 Hours.
Theories and methodologies of social work assessment, case management, and other generalist intervention at the individual, family, and group levels in diverse settings. This course is required for Social Work Field Instruction and Seminar I (SOCW 4951). Prerequisite: SOCW 2311, SOCW 2313, SOCW 3301, and SOCW 3302. BSW majors only.
SOCW 3306. SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE III: MACRO PRACTICE. 3 Hours.
The theory and practice of social change at the community level, including a sociological analysis of bureaucracies as collectivities of power, and of the community as a social phenomenon. Three models of community organization--community development, social action, and social planning--will be emphasized including methods of resource delivery and redistribution. This course is required for Social Work Field Instruction and Seminar II (SOCW 4952). Prerequisite: SOCW 2311, SOCW 2313, and SOCW 3301. BSW majors only.
SOCW 3307. DIVERSE POPULATIONS. 3 Hours.
Introduction to theoretical, practical, and policy issues related to diverse populations. Historical, political, and socioeconomic forces are examined that maintain discriminatory and oppressive values, attitudes, and behaviors in society and in all levels of organizational behavior. This course is required for admission to the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program. Offered as AAST 3317, SOCW 3307 and MAS 3319; credit will be granted in only one department.
SOCW 3308. SOCIAL WORK RESEARCH METHODS. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to provide students with the fundamental skills to understand, use, and conduct research to advance the knowledge base of the social work profession and assess the effectiveness of social work interventions in generalist social work practice. The course addresses elements of the research process, quantitative and qualitative methods, research ethics, and approaches to data analysis. Particular attention will be given to the role of research with populations-at-risk, social and economic justice, and cultural diversity. Prerequisite: SOCW 2311; and MATH 1308, SOCW 2325, or SOCI 3352. BSW majors only.
SOCW 3314. THE LATINA EXPERIENCE. 3 Hours.
A course on the social, cultural, and economic experiences of Latina and Latin American origin women in the United States. Listed as MAS 3314, SOCW 3314, and WOMS 3314; may receive credit for either MAS 3314, SOCW 3314, or WOMS 3314.
SOCW 3315. INTRODUCTION TO SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS. 3 Hours.
This is an entry-level course that provides foundation-level social work students with the fundamental concepts of Substance Use Disorders (SUD) and the addictive process. Students will examine the prevalence and characteristics of substance use disorders and the impact of such disorders on the individual, family, and the community. Theories of addiction and application of these theories will be examined. Students will develop conceptual knowledge and self-awareness concerning the etiology of addiction, assessment strategies, and wellness strategies for facilitating optimal development and preventing SUD. The course will cover the prevalence of SUD varies among ethnic and cultural groups, between men and women, across the life span, and through different socio-economic levels. Prerequisite: SOCW 3304.
SOCW 3320. U.S. IMMIGRATION POLICY AND THE AMERICAN DREAM. 3 Hours.
Focus on American identity through the examination of immigration to the United States, past and present, and the evolution of U.S. immigration policy. Topics include U.S. attitudes and policy responses to European, Asian, and Latin American immigration and to the incorporation of the descendants of African slaves and Native Americans. Emphasis on the decline of the melting pot idea and the incorporation of recent immigrants. Offered as MAS 3320, and SOCW 3320. Credit will be granted only once.
SOCW 4191. CONFERENCE COURSE. 1 Hour.
Topics assigned on an individual basis covering personal research or study in designated areas. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor.
SOCW 4291. CONFERENCE COURSE. 2 Hours.
Topics assigned on an individual basis covering personal research or study in designated areas. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor.
SOCW 4310. SOCIAL WORK WITH CHILDREN AND FAMILIES. 3 Hours.
A critical examination of social policies, research, and practices impacting at-risk children and families in child welfare, child mental health, and school settings. Emphasis is placed on the role of the social work practitioner in enhancing the well-being of children and families in contemporary society. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, SOCW 3302, and SOCW 3304. BSW majors only.
SOCW 4335. AGING IN AMERICAN SOCIETY. 3 Hours.
This course presents the major theories of aging, in the United States and across cultures, and explores the diverse factors of aging from various perspectives including psychological, biological, sociological, and spiritual. Theories are integrated into practice thus providing students a sound foundation for social work practice with older adults. Students develop skills for completing multi-dimensional assessments, and effective social work interventions with and on behalf of older adults. This is offered at the MSW level as SOCW 5335. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, SOCW 3302, and SOCW 3307.
SOCW 4350. SPECIAL ISSUES IN SOCIAL WORK. 3 Hours.
Relevant social work topics generated and explored in depth according to student and professional needs. The topic will be determined prior to registration. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor.
SOCW 4364. PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS. 3 Hours.
Explores theoretical and empirical data on diverse personal relationships at the follow stages of relationship: initiation, maintenance, and termination. Identifies areas for intervention. Also offered as SOCW 5364 in the MSW program. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, SOCW 3302, and SOCW 3307.
SOCW 4366. SEMINAR IN GENDER ISSUES. 3 Hours.
Explores women's issues in human behavior theory, practice theory, and policy. The historical, political, and socioeconomic forces that maintain sexism are discussed. Environmental influences are examined in relation to social justice, social work values, knowledge, and skills. This course is also offered as SOCW 5366 in the MSW program. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, SOCW 3302, and SOCW 3307.
SOCW 4370. SOCIAL WORK IN THE SCHOOLS. 3 Hours.
The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of the various social work related theoretical perspectives, models, and programs for intervention with children and their families in the school setting. This includes skills in assessment, prevention, and intervention in providing services to "high risk" students, such as students in poverty and students with disabilities, and addressing issues such as teen parenting, drug and alcohol abuse, and conflict management in the school setting. This is offered at the Master's level as SOCW 5370. Prerequisite: SOCW 3304.
SOCW 4371. FORENSIC SOCIAL WORK. 3 Hours.
This course develops the understanding of the role of social workers with clients within the criminal justice system and the legal system. This course will focus on theory, intervention, and advocacy with diverse forensic populations including juveniles, adults, people accused of crimes, victims of crimes, and related systems. Forensic practice in family and social services, juvenile justice and criminal justice, child welfare, and mental health and substance abuse will be explored. This course assumes a justice oriented multisystems and interdisciplinary approach. Also offered as SOCW 5371 in the MSW program. Prerequisite: SOCW 2313, SOCW 3301, SOCW 3302, SOCW 3304, and SOCW 3307.
SOCW 4391. CONFERENCE COURSE. 3 Hours.
Topics assigned on an individual basis covering personal research or study in designated areas. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor.
SOCW 4951. SOCIAL WORK FIELD INSTRUCTION AND SEMINAR I. 9 Hours.
Supervised social work experience in a human service agency where students will integrate generalist practice concepts into professional practice experiences. Requires a minimum of 240 clock hours in the agency. An additional two hours a week are spent in a classroom seminar to integrate of social work knowledge, theory, and skills learned in the classroom with practical application in a social work setting. For additional information and requirements, see the BSW Field Policies and Procedures Manual. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, SOCW 3302, SOCW 3304. BSW Majors Only.
SOCW 4952. SOCIAL WORK FIELD INSTRUCTION AND SEMINAR II. 9 Hours.
Supervised social work experience in a human service agency where students will integrate generalist practice concepts into professional practice experiences. Requires a minimum of 240 clock hours in the agency. An additional 2 hours a week are spent in a classroom seminar to integrate of social work knowledge, theory, and skills learned in the classroom with practical application in a social work setting. For additional information and requirements, see the BSW Field Policies and Procedures Manual. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, SOCW 3302, SOCW 3303, SOCW 3304, and SOCW 3306. This course must be taken in the semester immediately following SOCW 4951 or concurrently with it if completing a Block placement. BSW majors only.
SOCW 5281. FOUNDATION FIELD SPLIT II. 2 Hours.
Practical internship experience in the field with a social work agency. Course hours are completed by contacting the agency you are assigned to. Please contact the Field Office for more information. Students must complete 240 hours in the field. Prerequisite: SOCW 5681.
SOCW 5301. HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND THE SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT I. 3 Hours.
Exploration of behavioral and social science knowledge of human behavior and development through the life course. Examines major systems in society: individual, group, family, and community; and the diversity of ethnicity, race, class, sexual orientation, and culture.
SOCW 5303. FOUNDATIONS OF SOCIAL POLICY AND SERVICES. 3 Hours.
Examines how social goals are met by social welfare institutions. Conceptual schemes are developed for analyzing the structure of social welfare institutions and evaluating social welfare sub-systems. The social work profession also is examined in the context of the evolution and function of the contemporary American social welfare system.
SOCW 5304. GENERALIST MICRO PRACTICE. 3 Hours.
This foundation level course introduces graduate students to both theory and methods for social work practice with individuals, families, and small groups. It emphasizes a generalist perspective, beginning interviewing and relationship skills, problem assessment, goal setting, and contracting. Special attention is given to the common roles assumed by social workers (e.g. facilitator, broker, advocate).
SOCW 5306. GENERALIST MACRO PRACTICE. 3 Hours.
Examines generalist community and administrative practice roles, the perspectives of strengths, empowerment, evidence-based practice, and global practice along with the values of social justice, diversity, and participation. Specific attention is given to assessing community assets and needs.
SOCW 5307. DIVERSE POPULATIONS. 3 Hours.
Introduction to theoretical, practical, and policy issues related to race, ethnicity, and women. Historical, political, and socioeconomic forces are examined that maintain racist and sexist values, attitudes, and behaviors in society and all levels of organizational behavior. The importance and contribution of globalization, social justice and diversity are explored.
SOCW 5308. RESEARCH AND EVALUATION METHODS IN SOCIAL WORK I. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of and ability to use the evidence-informed practice process to identify, analyze and apply evidence-informed interventions. Students will be able to comprehend both quantitative and qualitative research and to synthesize strengths and weaknesses of the social work literature. Students will be able to synthesize and evaluate research in terms of its content, quality, and applicability to clients. Students will understand scientific and ethical approaches to building knowledge to apply to and evaluate the impact of interventions on clients or clients' presenting problems.
SOCW 5311. ADVANCED MICRO PRACTICE. 3 Hours.
Builds on the generalist perspective and the basic familiarity with social work processes (such as problem identification, assessment, contracting, plan implementation, and outcome evaluation) in the context of (1) existing psychosocial intervention modalities, and (2) the particular client characteristics that lend themselves to specific change modalities. Required of all Direct Practice students. Prerequisite: Advanced Standing OR SOCW 5304 AND SOCW 5681 OR SOCW 5881.
SOCW 5312. COMMUNITY AND ADMINISTRATIVE PRACTICE. 3 Hours.
Surveys theory and builds skills in roles associated specifically with community practice (e.g. community/locality development, social planning, social action) and administrative practice (e.g. supervision, administration, management and management systems). Students complete an advanced assignment in community and/or organizational assessment and program design. Prerequisite: Advanced Standing Student OR SOCW 5306 AND SOCW 5681 OR SOCW 5881.
SOCW 5313. RESEARCH AND EVALUATION METHODS IN SOCIAL WORK II. 3 Hours.
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of and ability to analyze, monitor, and evaluate evidence informed interventions and human service programs. In this course quantitative and qualitative research methods and approaches are applied to the scientific and ethical evaluation of evidence informed interventions and human service programs. Research skills and knowledge are presented from the perspective of promoting diversity and social and economic justice in the evaluation of social work. Prerequisite: Advanced Standing OR SOCW 5308.
SOCW 5314. INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE. 3 Hours.
This course covers theoretical frameworks for understanding and addressing intimate partner violence as well as culturally sensitive prevention and intervention practice models. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5315. BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR. 3 Hours.
The focus of this course is on current advances in knowledge of the neurobiological underpinnings of human behavior and development, the interaction between those underpinnings and the social context and environment, the relevance to social work practice with individuals, families, groups, programs/organizations, and communities, and related assessment and intervention practice behaviors across several practice domains. The domains include human development, genetics, mental health and substance abuse, cognition, stress and trauma, and violence and aggression. The implications of neurobiological and environmental influences (including public health issues and health disparities) will be examined in terms of social justice, social work values, knowledge, and skills, as well as in terms of the structural and systematic arrangement and delivery of social welfare services at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5316. STRESS, CRISIS, AND COPING. 3 Hours.
The impact of specific crises on individuals and families will be examined. Typical crises will include life-threatening illness, trauma, physical and mental disability, and death. Assessment and evaluation of an individual's coping ability and appropriate strategies for social work interventions will be studied. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5318. DEATH & DYING. 3 Hours.
This course will give students an overview of the principles of thanatology from anthropological, sociological, psychological, medical, historical, spiritual, cultural, and political perspectives and the role(s) that social work can play in helping individuals, families, and communities to face death and loss across contexts. Using life course and life span approaches, course content will include personal death awareness, the integration of theoretical perspectives and evidence-based practice interventions in working with dying, death, and bereavement with emphasis on cultural and religious/spiritual perspectives, bioethical principles and end of life decision making, social justice, and advocacy for the dying. Therefore, the class content promotes individual self-reflection and discussion of diverse views across the developmental life span and life course about the meaning of life and death and implications for social work practice. This dialog is a precursor to engagement with clients, caregivers, grieving persons, and health care personnel about sensitive issues around the experience of dying and death. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5320. ADVANCED ADMINISTRATIVE PRACTICE. 3 Hours.
Focuses on selected topics, issues, and skills for effective social work administration. Content includes leadership, worker motivation, resource development, interagency relations and managing conflict and diversity in a climate of scarce resources. Prerequisite: SOCW 5312 or concurrent enrollment.
SOCW 5321. ADVANCED COMMUNITY PRACTICE. 3 Hours.
Focuses on topics, issues, and skills for mobilizing neighborhoods, communities, and client groups to solve collective human problems. Content includes the politics of empowerment, mobilizing coalitions, locating resources, and mediating conflict. Prerequisite: SOCW 5312 or concurrent enrollment.
SOCW 5323. PROGRAM EVALUATION. 3 Hours.
Presumes basic research competence on part of student. Focus on sociopolitical aspects of program evaluation as a specialized use of scientific methods and community practice skills. Relationships between program evaluation and program planning or administration stressed. Prerequisite: SOCW 5308; Co-requisite: SOCW 5312.
SOCW 5324. SOCIAL WORK SUPERVISION. 3 Hours.
Introduces the roles, functions, and contexts of social work supervision. Covers administrative and clinical perspectives on the social work supervisor as manager, educator, mentor, mediator, and leader in human service organizations. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311 OR SOCW 5312.
SOCW 5325. BUDGETING AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT. 3 Hours.
Basic overview of financial management applied specifically to human service agencies; emphases on basic concepts and skill building in budgeting, and fund raising; accounting principles, financial statements, and computerized financial information systems also covered. Co-requisite: SOCW 5312.
SOCW 5326. GRANT PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT SEMINAR. 3 Hours.
Grant proposal development is a fundamental method of accessing funds and developing new programs in the social service arena. In this class, students will identify key funding opportunities in their fields of interest and will write a proposal using an actual federal application and a foundation funding announcement. The majority of the course will be devoted to the development of the skills and knowledge necessary to produce a competitive proposal. These include, but are not limited to: a) needs and capacities assessment, b) program development, c) strategic planning, d) budgeting, e) evaluation, and f) community collaboration. Co-requisite: SOCW 5312.
SOCW 5327. HUMAN BEHAVIOR IN MACRO ENVIRONMENTS. 3 Hours.
Offers advanced students the opportunity to study people's behavior within large and complex social settings including: natural helping networks and ontological communities, organizations and bureaucracies, and social and political movements. Prerequisite: Advanced Standing OR SOCW 5301 and SOCW 5307.
SOCW 5328. ADVOCACY AND SOCIAL POLICY. 3 Hours.
Politics are key to developing social policy. Students learn theory and skills to impact social and distributive justice at local, state and national levels. Examines the role of the social work profession in politics. Prerequisite: SOCW 5303.
SOCW 5332. DIRECT PRACTICE WITH AGING. 3 Hours.
Course presents an overview of current issues in the care, treatment, and delivery of social services to the aging. Students learn practice procedures designed to equip them with the skills needed for effective social work practice and review major theories on aging. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5333. AGING AND SOCIAL POLICY. 3 Hours.
Social welfare policies and programs are examined in terms of the overall impact on the aged and society. Needs and gaps in services to the aged are evaluated, especially concerning minority and low-income aged. Current issues in aging policy are examined. Prerequisite: SOCW 5303.
SOCW 5334. FAMILY CAREGIVING & AGING. 3 Hours.
This course will give students an overview of the individual and social impact of family caregiving and aging within a bio-psycho-social context and the role(s) of social workers in helping individuals, families, and communities face the contemporary challenges of caregiving. Course content will be underscored by a strengths-based framework and will include the effects of culture on family caregiving, families' process of providing care to persons with chronic and/or complex illness across levels of care (e.g. hospital/rehabilitation/hospice), working with family caregivers within long-term care settings (e.g. nursing homes), dementia caregiving, end of life care as well as evidence-based assessment and intervention with family caregivers. Social services and policy that social workers need to know in order to practice effectively with older adults and their family caregivers are discussed. Innovative approaches for addressing challenges in family caregiving (e.g. technology) are also explored. Particular attention is given to issues of family caregiving faced by diverse, marginalized, and oppressed populations. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5335. AGING IN AMERICAN SOCIETY. 3 Hours.
This course presents the major theories of aging, in the United States and across cultures, and explores the diverse factors of aging from various perspectives including psychological, biological, sociological, and spiritual. Theories are integrated into practice thus providing students a sound foundation for social work practice with older adults. Students develop skills for completing multi-dimensional assessments, and effective social work interventions with and on behalf of older adults. Prerequisite: SOCW 5301 and SOCW 5307.
SOCW 5342. DIRECT PRACTICE IN HEALTH CARE. 3 Hours.
Explores the central contribution of social work to comprehensive health care and health in environment theory and evidence; advanced knowledge and skills in human behavior theory relevant to health care, as well as social work interventions to assess and ameliorate the psychological effects of illness and disability, are included along with emerging roles for social work in prevention and health maintenance. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5343. HEALTH POLICY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE. 3 Hours.
Historical, current, and projected national and local health policies and roles of providers and consumers of health care examined; service demands, economic, access, and regulatory issues analyzed; relationships between governmental, voluntary, and commercial sectors studied; analytic frameworks for the understanding and development of policies developed. Prerequisite: SOCW 5303.
SOCW 5344. SOCIAL WORK AND MANAGED CARE. 3 Hours.
Explores the history of managed care in health and social services, the underlying philosophy, and current trends and practice issues. Assesses the potential for conflict between social work values and managed care systems. Builds skills for administrative roles in managed care settings. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311 OR SOCW 5312.
SOCW 5345. SPECIAL TOPICS IN HEALTH EQUITY. 3 Hours.
Building on a social determinants of health theoretical perspective and research methods in health care, this course undertakes a critical examination of policies, research and practices that contribute to health disparities. Topics vary each semester depending on the needs and interests of students and faculty. Potential topics may include, but are not limited to: community health, homelessness, HIV/AIDS, maternal and child health, immigrant health, and veteran health. Emphasis is placed on the role of the social work practitioner in promoting and advancing social justice in health. Co-requisites: SOCW 5311 OR SOCW 5312.
SOCW 5352. DIRECT PRACTICE IN MENTAL HEALTH. 3 Hours.
Focuses on assessment and intervention with those evidencing acute and chronic mental health problems and disabilities. The course addresses the delivery of services to various populations (children, adolescents, and adults), service delivery systems (community mental health, managed behavioral health care), and a wide range of problems. Topics include well-being, ethics, case management, treatment planning, managed care, DSM, PIE, and substance abuse. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5353. SOCIAL POLICY AND MENTAL HEALTH. 3 Hours.
Studies programs and policies in the field of mental health. An analytical model is employed in the process of examining critical issues in the mental health arena. Prerequisite: SOCW 5303.
SOCW 5354. TREATMENT OF ADDICTIVE BEHAVIORS. 3 Hours.
Surveys major treatment alternatives, showing addictive behavior patterns such as alcohol/drug abuse or eating disorders. Student conducts field research of 12-step programs, practices interventions, and studies inpatient and outpatient treatment methods with emphasis on relapse prevention. Prerequisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5355. MILITARY SOCIAL WORK. 3 Hours.
The focus of this course is on examining military culture within a diversity framework, considering ethical implications for practice with this culture, comprehending prevalent social and health issues (including the effects of policies and health disparities) for this population, and analyzing current advances in knowledge of the neurobiological underpinnings of human behavior and development pertinent to those issues and to resilience to stress and adversity in this population. Implications for social work practice with individuals, families, groups, programs/organizations, and communities relevant to this population will be identified and evaluated. The implications will be examined in terms of social justice, social work values, knowledge, and skills, as well as in terms of the structural and systematic arrangement and delivery of social welfare services at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5356. SEMINAR IN COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES. 3 Hours.
Explores the integration of cognitive-behavioral and constructivist intervention methods in the treatment of various problems and clinical populations. The theoretical bases of cognitivism, behaviorism, and constructivism are identified and current issues in cognitive-behavioral and in constructivist methods are addressed. Assessment and interventions taught in this course are drawn from evidence-based practice knowledge and informed practice wisdom. Client strengths and individual empowerment are emphasized in formulating assessment and intervention strategies. Prerequisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5357. GROUP DYNAMICS AND SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE. 3 Hours.
Examines contemporary social-psychological concepts and small group research, with a view to testing their applicability to practice propositions and operational principles, in work with both task and personality satisfaction groups. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5358. TREATMENT OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS. 3 Hours.
Overview of the literature which describes physical, psychological, and cultural characteristics unique to childhood and adolescence. Attention then turned to treatment principles, and the specification of procedures for the amelioration of problems common to children and adolescents. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5362. DIRECT PRACTICE WITH CHILDREN AND FAMILIES. 3 Hours.
Focuses on the characteristics, strengths, and service needs of children and their families. Addresses assessment and intervention skills to work effectively with a variety of child, parent(s), and family problems. Specific techniques considered include child therapy, play therapy, behavioral contracting, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and crisis intervention. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5363. SOCIAL POLICY AND CHILD WELFARE. 3 Hours.
Examination of current policies, programs, and practices. Attention given to new perspectives on the delivery system and staffing in child welfare. Through analysis and research, students are provided knowledge for more effective practice in the field of child welfare. Prerequisite: SOCW 5303.
SOCW 5364. PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS. 3 Hours.
Explores theoretical and empirical data on diverse personal relationships at the follow stages of relationship: initiation, maintenance, and termination. Identifies areas for intervention. This course is also offered as SOCW 4320 in the BSW Program. Prerequisite: SOCW 5301 and SOCW 5307.
SOCW 5365. CLINICAL ASSESSMENT OF CHILD MALTREATMENT. 3 Hours.
Examines knowledge/technique in child physical/emotional/sexual abuse, physical/emotional neglect, and exploitation interventions. Includes interviewing, identification, legal issues, assessment/evaluation, case management, intervention, follow-up. Prerequisite: SOCW 5311; Co-requisite: SOCW 5362 OR SOCW 5352 OR SOCW 5342.
SOCW 5366. SEMINAR IN GENDER ISSUES. 3 Hours.
Explores gender issues in human behavior theory, practice theory, and policy. The historical, political, and socioeconomic forces that maintain sexism are discussed. Environmental influences are examined in relation to social justice, social work values, knowledge, and skills. This course is also offered as SOCW 4311 in the BSW Program. Prerequisite: SOCW 5301, SOCW 5307.
SOCW 5367. TREATING PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIPS. 3 Hours.
Treatment strategies and evaluation methods and research findings relevant to the treatment of parent-child relationships; review of existing parent training literature and commercially available parenting programs. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5368. SEMINAR IN DIRECT METHODS IN COUPLES COUNSELING. 3 Hours.
Examination of various psychological, social, and cognitive-behavioral treatment approaches to problems in intimate coupling. Emphasis is placed on the assessment of the sources and patterns of dissatisfaction and conflict, the selection and ordering of treatment strategies, and application of treatment techniques consistent with determined goals. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5369. SEMINAR IN FAMILY THERAPY. 3 Hours.
Comparison of various approaches to working with the family as a total system; enhancement of cognitive understanding of similarities and differences in theory and goals of family treatment in many fields of practice; integration of strategies and techniques of each method into an individual style of therapy. Prerequisite:
SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5370. SOCIAL WORK IN SCHOOLS. 3 Hours.
The purpose of this course is to provide an overview of the various social work related theoretical perspectives, models, and programs for intervention with children and their families in the school setting. This includes skills in assessment, prevention, and intervention in providing services to "high risk" students, such as students in poverty and students with disabilities, and addressing issues such as teen parenting, drug and alcohol abuse, and conflict management in the school setting. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311.
SOCW 5371. FORENSIC SOCIAL WORK. 3 Hours.
This course develops the understanding of the role of social workers with clients within the criminal justice system and the legal system. This course will focus on theory, intervention, and advocacy with diverse forensic populations including juveniles, adults, people accused of crimes, victims of crimes, and related systems. Forensic practice in family and social services, juvenile justice and criminal justice, child welfare, and mental health and substance abuse will be explored. This course assumes a justice oriented multisystems and interdisciplinary approach. Also offered as SOCW 4329 in the BSW program. Prerequisites: SOCW 5301, SOCW 5307, and SOCW 5304.
SOCW 5390. INDEPENDENT STUDY. 3 Hours.
Arrangements may be made for a directed and supervised independent study in a select area of special interest to the student.
SOCW 5392. SELECTED TOPICS IN SOCIAL WELFARE. 3 Hours.
Topics vary from semester to semester depending on the needs and interest of the students.
SOCW 5395. INTEGRATIVE SEMINAR. 3 Hours.
Focuses on issues and aspects of practice of broad concern to the profession of social work. Faculty members serve as consultants and resource persons to seminar members. Required of all non-thesis students in their final semester of coursework. Grade of C or better must be earned in this seminar to pass. If this requirement is not met, the student must repeat the course. Milestone: all courses have been taken for the degree except those left in the last semester, including this course. If fall or spring, no more than 15 hours can be left; if summer, no more than 12 hours can be left. Prerequisite: SOCW 5482 or SOCW 5882.
SOCW 5396. THESIS RESEARCH. 3 Hours.
Initial research in the student's area of concentration, leading to thesis.
SOCW 5398. THESIS. 3 Hours.
Requires an individual research project in the individual's area of concentration, with a minimum of six semester hours total needed for the project. Satisfactory completion requires approval of the instructor in charge, a supervising committee appointed by the Dean of Graduate Studies. Defense in a final oral examination is required.
SOCW 5482. ADVANCED FIELD SPLIT I. 4 Hours.
Practical application of social work skills in real world environment. Student is assigned to field agency to enhance and practice learned theories. This course is 240 hours of direct client contact in agency setting as provided by the Field Experience Office. Prerequisite: SOCW 5312 OR SOCW 5311 AND SOCW 5332 OR SOCW 5342 OR SOCW 5352 OR SOCW 5362.
SOCW 5483. ADVANCED FIELD SPLIT II. 4 Hours.
Practical application of social work skills in real world environment. Student is assigned to field agency to enhance and practice learned theories. This course is 240 hours of direct client contact in agency setting as provided by the Field Experience Office. Prerequisite: SOCW 5312 OR SOCW 5311 AND SOCW 5332 OR SOCW 5342 OR SOCW 5352 OR SOCW 5362.
SOCW 5681. FOUNDATION FIELD SPLIT I. 6 Hours.
Practical internship experience in the field with a social work agency. Course hours are completed by contacting the agency you are assigned to. Please contact the Field Office for more information. This is a split placement: students will complete 240 hours in the Field and will attend a required 2 hour weekly seminar. Prerequisite: SOCW 5301, SOCW 5304, SOCW 5306.
SOCW 5698. THESIS. 6 Hours.
Requires an individual research project in the individual's area of concentration, with a minimum of six semester hours total needed for the project. Satisfactory completion requires approval of the instructor in charge, a supervising committee appointed by the Dean of Graduate Studies. Defense in a final oral examination is required.
SOCW 6190. TUTORIAL. 1 Hour.
Arrangements may be made for a directed and supervised tutorial in a select area of special interest to the student.
SOCW 6303. POVERTY, INEQUALITY AND SOCIAL POLICY. 3 Hours.
This course examines the nature and extent of poverty and inequality in the United States, their causes and consequences, and the debate concerning the role of government in providing anti-poverty programs. Many points of view concerning social and distributive justice are presented, from the radical left to radical right. Prerequisite: SOCW 5303.
SOCW 6328. SOCIAL POLICY RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS. 3 Hours.
Seminar examining methods for analyzing social policies and for assessing effects of policy. Students evaluate and apply different models for social policy analysis, including comparative models. Students work with social indicators and other data sources used in policy research. Prerequisite: acceptance into the Ph.D. program.
SOCW 6340. ADVANCED RESEARCH METHODS IN HUMAN SERVICES. 3 Hours.
Acquaints students at an advanced level with research methodology as it applies to the human services. Includes techniques and tools of research, problem conceptualization, measurement, research and instrument design and data collection methods. Prerequisite: acceptance into the Ph.D. program.
SOCW 6341. ADVANCED STATISTICAL METHODS IN HUMAN SERVICES. 3 Hours.
Advanced statistical applications in the human services. Emphasis on multivariate statistical approaches including multiple regression analysis, logistic regression, and advanced general linear modeling approaches to analyzing data from social work research. Prerequisite: SOCW 6347.
SOCW 6346. TEACHING PRACTICUM. 3 Hours.
Introduces students to the academic role through teaching practice at graduate and/or undergraduate level supervised by a full-time faculty member. Prerequisite: SOCW 6328, SOCW 6340, SOCW 6348,SOCW 6373.
SOCW 6347. INTERMEDIATE STATISTICS. 3 Hours.
Statistical applications for doctoral social work students. Emphasizes both parametric and non-parametric techniques, including t-tests, ANOVA, correlation and regression, chi-square, and other non-parametrics. Designed to provide a foundation for advanced multivariate statistical techniques. Prerequisite: acceptance into the Ph.D. program.
SOCW 6348. SEMINAR IN QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS. 3 Hours.
Explores a variety of qualitative approaches to knowledge building and research. Designed to prepare students to carry out research projects within their areas of interest. Content includes discussions of knowledge development, study designs, data collection, analysis, and report writing. Prerequisite: acceptance into the Ph.D. program.
SOCW 6356. SEMINAR IN PROGRAM AND PRACTICE EVALUATION. 3 Hours.
This course provides hands on opportunities to develop program and clinical evaluation plans for social work/welfare agencies. Educational principles and theoretical foundations are discussed as the actual plans are developed. Students work with agency decision makers and the instructor to generate a plan acceptable to the agency for implementation. Prerequisite: SOCW 6347.
SOCW 6367. SEMINAR IN ADVANCED STATISTICAL APPLICATIONS. 3 Hours.
This seminar covers statistical analysis of complex data and statistical modeling including latent variables. Emphasis is on structural equation model analysis using AMOS, LISREL, or EQS. The course focuses on applications of statistics using various data sets. Prerequisite: Knowledge of SPSS; SOCW 6341 and SOCW 6347.
SOCW 6373. THEORY AND MODELING BUILDING IN SOCIAL WORK RESEARCH. 3 Hours.
This course gives special emphasis on ways in which theory informs social work research.This course prepares students to perform application and critical analysis of social science and social work theory and theory-driven research. The course involves students in integrating theory, research, and social work practice with the goal of producing models of interventions, programs, and policies. Prerequisite: acceptance into the Ph.D. program.
SOCW 6390. TUTORIAL. 3 Hours.
Arrangements may be made for a directed and supervised tutorial in a select area of special interest to the student.
SOCW 6392. SELECTED TOPICS IN SOCIAL WELFARE. 3 Hours.
Topics vary from semester to semester based on the needs and interests of students.
SOCW 6393. GRANT WRITING. 3 Hours.
This course introduces the student to the process of writing grants. This includes knowledge of sponsors and opportunities as well as practical "know-how" in writing competitive grants for supporting research in social service and health service provision. The emphasis of the course will be on federal grants, but state and foundation grants will also be cited as case illustrations. Prerequisite: Doctoral standing or permission of the instructor.
SOCW 6394. APPLIED RESEARCH PRACTICUM. 3 Hours.
Students engage in an active program of applied research under direct supervision of a faculty member.
SOCW 6395. PSYCHOMETRICS AND MEASUREMENT IN HUMAN SERVICES. 3 Hours.
This course focuses on psychometrics and measurement within social work research. Highlighting the importance of measurement in research, the course emphasizes the defining key theoretical constructs and the methodology needed to measure them. This course prepares students to develop and validate instruments. Prerequisite: Doctoral standing or permission of the instructor.
SOCW 6396. SOCIAL WORK EDUCATION: PRINCIPLES AND SKILLS. 3 Hours.
Considers a range of ideas in educational thought relevant to the formulation of an analytical appraisal of social work education and training. Educational methods and skills relevant to social work are addressed and practice opportunities offered. Prerequisite: acceptance into the Ph.D. program.
SOCW 6397. WRITING FOR PUBLICATION. 3 Hours.
This course will explore the world of academic publishing. Students will provide peer reviews of manuscripts, prepare and critique their ideas and draft sections of a manuscript, and present a final manuscript and publication plan. The intent is to help the students increase their chance of publishing manuscripts as a Ph.D. student and as a new faculty member. Although nothing can substitute for having information and research relevant for the field, the art of writing for publication should not be underestimated. Journal publishing, like any other human service endeavor, is easier as you become proficient. Most academics become proficient at communicating their ideas and research through trial and error. However, one's chances of becoming published can be increased by learning from experts in the field. Prerequisite: acceptance into the Ph.D. program.
SOCW 6399. DISSERTATION. 3 Hours.
Preparation and submission of a doctoral dissertation in an area in social work.
SOCW 6694. APPLIED RESEARCH PRACTICUM. 6 Hours.
Students engage in an active program of applied research under direct supervision of a faculty member.
SOCW 6699. DISSERTATION. 6 Hours.
Preparation and submission of a doctoral dissertation in an area in social work.
SOCW 6999. DISSERTATION. 9 Hours.
Preparation and submission of a doctoral dissertation in an area in social work.
SOCW 7399. DOCTORAL DEGREE COMPLETION. 3 Hours.
This course may be taken during the semester in which a student expects to complete all requirements for the doctoral degree and graduate. Enrolling in this course meets minimum enrollment requirements for graduation, for holding fellowships awarded by The Office of Graduate Studies and for full-time GTA or GRA positions. Students should verify that enrollment in this course meets other applicable enrollment requirements. To remain eligible in their final semester of study for grants, loans or other forms of financial aid administered by the Financial Aid Office must enroll in a minimum of 5 hours as required by the Office of Financial Aid. Other funding sources may also require more than 3-hours of enrollment. Additional hours may also be required to meet to requirements set by immigration law or by the policies of the student's degree program. Students should contact the Financial Aid Office, other sources of funding, Office of International Education and/or their graduate advisor to verify enrollment requirements before registering for this course. This course may only be taken once and may not be repeated. Students who do not complete all graduation requirements while enrolled in this course must enroll in a minimum of 6 dissertation hours (6699 or 6999) in their graduation term. Graded P/F/R.