University Catalog

School of Social Work

Overview

The School of Social Work (SSW) has a long, well established history at UTA.  Initially, beginning in 1967, only the MSW degree was offered. In 1979, The Bachelors of Social Work (BSW) degree was founded but under the auspices of the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work. The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Work degree program was initiated in 1983.  On September 1, 1991, the graduate and undergraduate programs were brought together into a unified administrative and academic unit, the School of Social Work.

The School now has a diverse student body of over 1,800 students enrolled in four degree programs: the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Bachelor of Science in Substance Use & Treatment (BSSUT)Master of Social Work (MSW), and the Ph.D. in Social Work. The BSW and MSW programs are fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

With a commitment to social justice, the School is also home to the Diversity Studies program, where undergraduate students can enroll in a cluster of courses to earn a certificate or minor in diversity. Additionally, undergraduate students may choose to minor in Social Justice and Social Welfare or Substance Use Treatment.

The MSW, BSW, and BSSUT programs are offered in person and fully online, and are available to students both within the state of Texas as well as to out-of-state students.  In addition to in person courses offered at the Arlington campus, some courses are also available in person at the UTA Fort Worth campus. Graduate certificates are available to students seeking to develop additional expertise in working with military populations through our Military Social Work Certificate or our Military, Veteran, and Family Care Certificate.  In addition, students interested in developing additional leadership skills may select one of four graduate leadership certificates in Community Leadership, Organizational Leadership, Administrative Leadership, or Policy Leadership.

In the BSW program, we prepare students for a wide range of entry level, generalist practice and social service positions. The BSSUT program prepares students for careers in the field of substance use disorder assessment and treatment. In the MSW program, students prepare for advanced level positions with specializations in either direct clinical practice with families and children, mental health and substance abuse, aging, or health, or in community and administrative practice. In the Ph.D. program students are prepared for positions in academia where they can teach and continue research in areas of importance to the social work profession. All four programs offer challenging courses, internships, and practicums designed to teach practice knowledge and skills while instilling the value orientations of the profession.

Mission and Philosophy

The School of Social Work (SSW) strives to educate leaders to create community partnerships for promoting a just society. The School promotes the highest standards of integrity and excellence in research, teaching and service, and creates collaborative scholarly and educational opportunities for students and the community, with the goal of achieving a just society.

The SSW has identified several broad program objectives: engaging in evidence-informed research, teaching and practice, preparing students to assume leadership roles and activities in the local community and beyond, and to conduct community-based research to address complex and pressing social issues at the local, national and global levels.

Office of Advising and Student Retention

To help students in the SSW reach their graduation goals we established the Office of Advising and Student Retention. Through this office students receive timely and accurate professional and academic advising, connection to the larger campus, and referrals to additional services to facilitate academic achievement. For more information contact the Office of Advising and Student Retention at (817) 272-3647.

Scholastic Activity and Research Interests of the Faculty

In the SSW there are three research centers: the Judith Birmingham Center for Child Welfare, the Center for Addictions & Recovery Studies (CARS) and the Center for Clinical Social Work, (CCSW). The centers offer training, research, and service opportunities to faculty and students.

Our faculty are outstanding scholars and teachers in the domains of child welfare, family violence, health, mental health, aging and disability and are active in developing new knowledge in their respective fields, producing significant numbers of peer-reviewed journal articles, books, and book chapters each year.

Research produced by faculty has generated not only new knowledge, but also intervention outcomes that have garnered national attention and recognition, with a number of faculty members serving either as editors-in-chief of peer-reviewed journals, or as members of editorial review boards.

Courses

SOCW 1331. SOCIAL WORK PROFESSIONALISM. 3 Hours.

Equips students with skills and resources to prepare for academic and professional success. Empowers diverse students to identify their individual needs, reflect on opportunities for growth, determine what resources and self-care strategies are appropriate, recognize the faculty role in their development, and formulate a plan for an actively engaged and enriched experience from campus to career. Each class section has a Peer Academic Leader (PAL), who are students who have already taken the course and assist as a discussion leader for the class under the supervision of the instructor. This course is reserved exclusively for students planning to major in Social Work (e.g., BSW-Intended status) who are freshmen; this will be taken concurrently with UNIV 1131. This course or SOCW 3300 is required for admission to the BSW major.

SOCW 1350. 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. We sometimes transfer in 1000 level courses and need a generic 1000 level for allocation.

SOCW 2302. 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). This course satisfies the University of Texas at Arlington core curriculum requirement in Social and Behavioral Sciences. For students seeking the BSW major who are Field of Study complete in Social Work, this course is not required.

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. This course teaches analytical methods that permit social workers to explore and understand the effects of individual differences on the impact of treatments and the success of interventions between various ethnic and cultural groups, gender identities, across the life span, and through different socio-economic levels. 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 2350. 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.

SOCW 2361. 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 open to all students and satisfies the requirement for Social and Behavioral Sciences in the core curriculum. This course is required for the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program.

SOCW 3300. SOCIAL WORK PROFESSIONALISM AND STUDENT SUCCESS. 3 Hours.

Equips students with skills and resources to prepare for academic and professional success. Empowers diverse students to identify their individual needs, reflect on opportunities for growth, determine what resources and self-care strategies are appropriate, recognize the faculty role in their development, and formulate a plan for an actively engaged and enriched experience from campus to career. Each class section has a Peer Academic Leader (PAL), who are students who have already taken the course and assist as a discussion leader for the class under the supervision of the instructor. This course is reserved exclusively for students planning to major in Social Work (e.g., BSW-Intended status) who have transferred from another institution; this fulfills the university requirement for UNIV 1101. This course or SOCW 1231 is required for admission to the BSW major. Co-requisite: SOCW 2361.

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 2302 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 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).

SOCW 3305. SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE I. 3 Hours.

This course is designed to promote a critical evaluation of the history and philosophy of social work and its value base as well as teach basic practice concepts including cultural humility, interviewing, communication, and problem-solving to use with diverse individuals, families, and groups across practice settings. Students will be able to make connections between social work's historical roots and present-day social work practice and demonstrate understanding of what they bring to practice as individuals and how that may support or hinder their work with diverse individuals, families, and groups. This course is required for admission to the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program. Co-requisite: SOCW 2311 or SOCW 2361.

SOCW 3306. SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE III: MACRO PRACTICE. 3 Hours.

Examines generalist community and administrative practice roles and includes the perspectives of historical inequities and social injustice and the impact on communities and diverse groups, 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. Prerequisite: SOCW 1231 OR SOCW 3300, SOCW 2361, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3307, and MATH 1308 or SOCW 2325 or other equivalent statistics course approved by the Director of Undergraduate Programs.

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 in diverse populations 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 1231 OR SOCW 3300, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3307, and MATH 1308 or SOCW 2325 or other equivalent statistics course approved by the Director of Undergraduate Programs.

SOCW 3309. 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 through the lens of intersectionality of race, gender, sexuality, age educational level and other aspects of identity. Prerequisite: SOCW 1231 OR SOCW 3300, SOCW 2361, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3307, and MATH 1308 or SOCW 2325 or other equivalent statistics course approved by the Director of Undergraduate Programs.

SOCW 3310. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE & GREEN SOCIAL WORK. 3 Hours.

This course examines how a variety of vulnerable or marginalized populations are impacted by environmental injustices, and explores ways that social service professionals can solve environmental justice issues on the micro, mezzo and macro level. Students will explore how issues such as climate change, extreme weather events and environmental toxins intersect with health, mental health, children & youth, older adults, indigenous populations, food deserts, climate-forced migration, international conflict, environmental racism, and more and examine solutions including ecotherapy, climate policy, and community organizing. This course is also offered at the Master's level as SOCW 5310. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program may not repeat the course at the Master's level.

SOCW 3312. DISABILITY & SOCIAL WORK. 3 Hours.

Examines major themes in disability and social work. Topics include basic understandings of disability, lived experiences of people with disabilities, legal and policy perspectives, working with adults and children with a variety of disabilities, history of disability policy and disability rights, disability advocacy, and resources in the community, among others. Offered as DS 3312 and SOCW 3312; credit will only be granted in one department.

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. Offered as MAS 3314, SOCI 3314, SOCW 3314, GWSS 3314, and AAST 3321. Credit will be granted in only one department.

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. This course is taught as SOCW 3315 and SUT 3315. Credit will be granted only once.

SOCW 3318. SCREENING, ASSESSMENT, & ENGAGEMENT. 3 Hours.

Introduces screening and diagnostic instruments and techniques appropriate for determining whether a substance use disorder might exist. Explores the therapeutic alliance and practice engagement techniques taking into account intersections of race, gender, sexuality, age, educational level, and other aspects of identity. Students learn to assess suicide risk and a client's readiness for change. Students learn to diagnose substance use disorders and recognize intoxication, withdrawal, substance, and medication induced disorders. Offered as SUT 3318 and SOCW 3318. Credit will be granted only once. Prerequisite: Prerequisite OR Corequisite: SUT 3315 or SOCW 3315.

SOCW 3319. TREATMENT PLANNING, COLLABORATION & REFERRAL. 3 Hours.

This course addresses the clinical application of the biopsychosocial assessment in the development of a treatment plan. Potential treatment issues will be identified and a client-specific problem list will be developed. Individualized treatment goals will be established in collaboration with diverse clients. Client objectives and clinical interventions will also be developed. This course explores dynamics of the therapeutic alliance, and clinician-client collaboration within the context of a strengths and empowerment-based perspective. The student will gain insight into and an appreciation of collaboration, consultation, and referral throughout the continuum of care. Offered as SUT 3319 and SOCW 3319. Credit will be granted only once. Prerequisite: SOCW 3318 or SUT 3318.

SOCW 3320. U.S. IMMIGRATION POLICY AND THE AMERICAN DREAM. 3 Hours.

This course focuses on diverse ethnic and racial identities in America 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, AAST 3319, and SOCW 3320. Credit will be granted only once.

SOCW 3321. SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT. 3 Hours.

This course is the culmination of the fundamentals of substance use disorders, treatment planning, collaboration and referral, and substance use treatment. Students will learn and acquire the special skills necessary to assist individuals, families, and groups through the sequela of substance use and addiction. Focus on cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, 12-step programs, nutrition and exercise, meditation, and other alternative treatment options. Students will study treatment modalities that consider the social, cultural, and economic influences that shape the client's world view and substance use experience. Offered as SUT 3321 and SOCW 3321. Credit will be granted only once. Prerequisite: Prerequisite or corequisite: SUT 3319 or SOCW 3319.

SOCW 4191. CONFERENCE COURSE. 1 Hour.

Topics assigned on an individual basis covering personal research or study in designated areas. Prerequisite: Permission of the Director.

SOCW 4291. CONFERENCE COURSE. 2 Hours.

Topics assigned on an individual basis covering personal research or study in designated areas. Prerequisite: Permission of the Director.

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 2302, SOCW 3301, and SOCW 3309.

SOCW 4314. INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE. 3 Hours.

This course covers interdisciplinary theoretical frameworks for understanding and addressing intimate partner violence in diverse relationships, including critical feminism, psychological, and sociological models, as well as prevention and intervention practices that reflect a stance of cultural and critical humility. This course is also offered at the Master's level as SOCW 5314. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program may not repeat the course at the Master's level.

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 through the lens of intersectionality taking into account intersections of race, gender, sexuality, educational level and other aspects of identity. It includes various perspectives including psychological, biological, sociological, and spiritual. Students will examine current social and economic issues impacting older adults, such as aging & healthcare policy, living arrangements, caregiving, technology, and sexuality. Theories are integrated into practice thus providing students a sound foundation for social work practice with diverse older adults. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program (SOCW 4335) may not repeat the course at the Master's level (SOCW 5335). Prerequisite: SOCW 2302, SOCW 3301, and SOCW 3307.

SOCW 4344. HEALTH INSURANCE AND ACCESS TO CARE. 3 Hours.

Explores the history and underlying philosophy of managed care in health and social services, reviews interdisciplinary approaches and principles for understanding and critiquing health care systems, and covers current trends and practice issues. Assesses the potential for conflict between social work values and managed care systems. Builds skills for advancing health equity through administrative roles in managed care settings. This is offered at the MSW level as SOCW 5344. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program may not repeat the course at the Master's level.

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 Director.

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. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program may not repeat the course at the Master's level. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, SOCW 2302, and SOCW 3307. Co-requisite: Social Work Practice II (SOCW 3309 [formerly 3304]).

SOCW 4366. SEMINAR IN WOMEN'S ISSUES. 3 Hours.

Explores women's issues in human behavior theory, practice theory, and policy. Using an intersectional lens, the historical, political, and socioeconomic forces that maintain sexism among diverse groups 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. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program may not repeat the course at the Master's level. Prerequisite: SOCW 3301, and SOCW 3307. Co-requisite: Social Work Practice II (SOCW 3309).

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 diverse children and their families in the school setting. This includes skills in assessment, prevention, and intervention in providing services to students that are marginalized for numerous reasons including race, gender, skin color, religion, immigrant status, disability, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status among other factors. Students will learn to use intervention skills that address each level of the ecosystem's perspective in schools. This is offered at the Master's level as SOCW 5370. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program may not repeat the course at the Master's level. Prerequisite: SOCW 3309.

SOCW 4371. INEQUITIES AND INCARCERATION. 3 Hours.

This course surveys mass incarceration in the U.S. criminal justice system as a racialized and classist system of control. First, this course will contextualize the US criminal justice system, both historically and through global comparisons. Then students will be introduced to four broad content areas: entering the criminal justice system (school-to-prison pipeline and policing), who is detained (demographics and common mental health and substance use issues) and what they experience in detention (including covid-19 in jails and prisons), experiences and problems encountered when returning citizens reenter society, and trends in criminal justice reform advocacy (including problem-solving courts and advocacy efforts such as Black Lives Matter). Finally, the course considers the social work grand challenge of smart decarceration as a path towards reform specific to social workers. Also offered as SOCW 5371 in the MSW program. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program may not repeat the course at the Master's level.

SOCW 4391. CONFERENCE COURSE. 3 Hours.

Topics assigned on an individual basis covering personal research or study in designated areas. Prerequisite: Permission of the Director.

SOCW 4451. SOCIAL WORK FIELD SEMINAR I. 4 Hours.

Students will spend three hours a week in a seminar course to reflect and integrate social work knowledge, theory, and skills learned over the course of the program that they are applying in their field placement. Students will discuss and reflect on their direct practice and macro practice experiences, how the Code of Ethics is applied at their agencies, what evidence-based best practices are utilized at their agencies, and how the planned change process is implemented at their agencies with their fellow students and Field Liaisons. For additional information and requirements, see the Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 2302, SOCW 3301, SOCW 3303, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3306, SOCW 3308, SOCW 3309, and 1 Social Work Elective.

SOCW 4452. SOCIAL WORK FIELD SEMINAR II. 4 Hours.

Students will spend three hours a week in a seminar course to reflect and integrate social work knowledge, theory, and skills learned over the course of the program that they are applying in their field placement. Students will discuss and reflect on their direct practice and macro practice experiences, how the Code of Ethics is applied at their agencies, what evidence-based best practices are utilized at their agencies, and how the planned change process is implemented at their agencies with their fellow students and Field Liaisons. For additional information and requirements, see the Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 2302, SOCW 3301, SOCW 3303, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3306, SOCW 3308, SOCW 3309, and 1 Social Work Elective.

SOCW 4455. SOCIAL WORK FIELD SEMINAR BLOCK PART 1. 4 Hours.

Students will spend three hours a week in a seminar course to reflect and integrate social work knowledge, theory, and skills learned over the course of the program that they are applying in their field placement. Students will discuss and reflect on their direct practice and macro practice experiences, how the Code of Ethics is applied at their agencies, what evidence-based best practices are utilized at their agencies, and how the planned change process is implemented at their agencies with their fellow students and Field Liaisons. For additional information and requirements, see the Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 2302, SOCW 3301, SOCW 3303, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3306, SOCW 3308, SOCW 3309, and 1 Social Work Elective.

SOCW 4456. SOCIAL WORK FIELD SEMINAR BLOCK PART 2. 4 Hours.

Students will spend three hours a week in a seminar course to reflect and integrate social work knowledge, theory, and skills learned over the course of the program that they are applying in their field placement. Students will discuss and reflect on their direct practice and macro practice experiences, how the Code of Ethics is applied at their agencies, what evidence-based best practices are utilized at their agencies, and how the planned change process is implemented at their agencies with their fellow students and Field Liaisons. For additional information and requirements, see the Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 2302, SOCW 3301, SOCW 3303, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3306, SOCW 3308, SOCW 3309, and 1 Social Work Elective.

SOCW 4551. SOCIAL WORK FIELD INSTRUCTION I. 5 Hours.

Students will complete a minimum of 240 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate generalist social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements For additional information and requirements, see the Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 2302, SOCW 3301, SOCW 3303, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3306, SOCW 3308, SOCW 3309, and 1 Social Work Elective.

SOCW 4552. SOCIAL WORK FIELD INSTRUCTION II. 5 Hours.

Students will complete a minimum of 240 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate generalist social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements For additional information and requirements, see the Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 2302, SOCW 3301, SOCW 3303, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3306, SOCW 3308, SOCW 3309, and 1 Social Work Elective.

SOCW 4555. SOCIAL WORK FIELD INSTRUCTION BLOCK PART 1. 5 Hours.

Students will complete a minimum of 480 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate generalist social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements For additional information and requirements, see the Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 2302, SOCW 3301, SOCW 3303, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3306, SOCW 3308, SOCW 3309, and 1 Social Work Elective.

SOCW 4556. SOCIAL WORK FIELD INSTRUCTION BLOCK PART 2. 5 Hours.

Students will complete a minimum of 480 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate generalist social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements For additional information and requirements, see the Field website. Prerequisite: SOCW 2302, SOCW 3301, SOCW 3303, SOCW 3305, SOCW 3306, SOCW 3308, SOCW 3309, and 1 Social Work Elective.

SOCW 5301. HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND THE SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT. 3 Hours.

Exploration of behavioral and social science knowledge of human behavior and development of diverse persons 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 of diverse populations 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 diverse 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) as well as development of self-reflection skills in relationship to the dynamics of intersectionality of those served.

SOCW 5306. GENERALIST MACRO PRACTICE. 3 Hours.

Examines generalist community and administrative practice roles and includes the perspectives of historical inequities and social injustice and the impact on communities and diverse groups, 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 theory, practice, 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.

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 5310. ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE & GREEN SOCIAL WORK. 3 Hours.

This course examines how a variety of vulnerable or marginalized populations are impacted by environmental injustices, and explores ways that social service professionals can solve environmental justice issues on the micro, mezzo and macro level. Students will explore how issues such as climate change, extreme weather events and environmental toxins intersect with health, mental health, children & youth, older adults, indigenous populations, food deserts, climate-forced migration, international conflict, environmental racism, and more and examine solutions including ecotherapy, climate policy, and community organizing. This course is also offered at the undergraduate level as SOCW 3310. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program may not repeat the course at the Master's level.

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; (2) the particular client values, personal goals, treatment preferences, and characteristics such as racial, ethnic, gender, sexual orientation, age, and ability identities; and (3) selection of change modalities appropriate in relation to clients' characteristics, social justice, and the client's presenting issues. Required of all Direct Practice students. Prerequisite: Advanced Standing OR SOCW 5307 AND SOCW 5303 AND SOCW 5308 AND SOCW 5381 OR SOCW 5385.

SOCW 5312. COMMUNITY AND ADMINISTRATIVE PRACTICE. 3 Hours.

This course surveys theory and builds skills in roles associated specifically with understanding the complex history and multilayered intersections, e.g. discrimination, oppression, disparities or other lived experiences that influence diverse community practice (e.g. community/locality history and development, social planning, social action) and culturally inclusive and sensitive administrative practice (e.g. supervision, administration, diverse management and management systems). Students complete an advanced culturally informed assignment in community and/or organizational assessment and program design. Required of all CAP (Community and Administrative Practice) students. Prerequisite: Advanced Standing OR SOCW 5307 AND SOCW 5303 AND SOCW 5308 AND SOCW 5381 OR SOCW 5385.

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 anti-oppressive research and evaluation of social work. Students seeking a Master of Social Work (MSW) must take either SOCW 5313 or SOCW 5323. Prerequisite: Advanced Standing OR SOCW 5308.

SOCW 5314. INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE. 3 Hours.

This course covers interdisciplinary theoretical frameworks for understanding and addressing intimate partner violence in diverse relationships, including critical feminism, psychological, and sociological models, as well as prevention and intervention practices that reflect a stance of cultural and critical humility. This course is also offered at the Bachelor's level as SOCW 4314. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program may not repeat the course at the Master's level. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. If the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be as well.

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 those populations who have historically been harmed by structural and systematic arrangement and delivery of social welfare services at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. Please note that if the co-requisite course is dropped, this one will be also.

SOCW 5316. STRESS, CRISIS, AND COPING. 3 Hours.

The impact of specific crises on individuals and families will be examined including the unique stresses, crises, and coping responses of diverse cultural and social identities as these relate to the stresses of oppression and social injustice and inequity. Variations in cultural wellness and health relative to stress and recovery will also be explored. 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. Differential therapeutics relative to ethnicity, cultural norms, inclusiveness, and access to wellness resources, will be infused into course assignments and discussion. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. Please note that if the co-requisite is dropped, this will be also.

SOCW 5317. PALLIATIVE CARE. 3 Hours.

This course introduces students to palliative care and the unique opportunities and challenges it presents to social workers employed in those settings. While a complete review of palliative care would be impossible to achieve within the confines of this course, the materials are designed to introduce students to key palliative care philosophies, values, and practice considerations. Students will be challenged to think critically about how dying and death is constructed and supported in Western medical settings, and leave with an understanding of social workers' role in delivery compassionate and personalized care to clients who are at the end of their lives. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. Please note that if the co-requisite course is dropped, this one will be also.

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 from diverse backgrounds. 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. Particular attention is given to the intersections of older adults with gender, race, sexuality, age, education level, and other aspects of identity. Therefore, the class content promotes individual self-reflection and discussion through the lens of diversity and intersectionality 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 and culturally diverse issues around the experience of dying and death. Co-requisite: 5311. Please note that if the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be dropped as well.

SOCW 5319. SUICIDE PREVENTION, INTERVENTION, & POSTVENTION. 3 Hours.

This course will provide students with an overview of the public health problem of suicide, with specific attention to prevention, intervention, and postvention. Students will gain an understanding of suicide epidemiology and underlying theory, as well as risk and protective factors for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This course will familiarize students with evidence-based practices and ethical considerations with clients engaging in suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Students will learn about state and national strategies for suicide prevention, as well as policies related to suicide. Students will gain skills in assessment and management of suicide risk, intervention and treatment techniques with suicidal clients, and postvention approaches with survivors of suicide loss at the individual, community, and national levels. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. Please note that if the co-requisite course is dropped, this one will be also.

SOCW 5320. ADVANCED ADMINISTRATIVE PRACTICE. 3 Hours.

Focuses on selected topics, issues, and skills for effective social work administration. Content includes inclusive and anti-oppressive approaches to leadership, worker motivation, resource development, stakeholder engagement, interagency relations, and managing conflict and diversity in a climate of scarce resources. Prerequisite: SOCW 5312 or concurrent enrollment. Please note that if SOCW 5312 is dropped, this course will be dropped as well.

SOCW 5321. ADVANCED COMMUNITY PRACTICE. 3 Hours.

This course explores research, theory and evidence-based approaches to community practice. Content is focused on the development of skills for partnering with neighborhoods, communities, and groups to address community problems rooted in structural inequalities. Major topics include the politics of empowerment, mobilizing coalitions, locating resources, and mediating conflict. Prerequisite: SOCW 5312 or concurrent enrollment.

SOCW 5323. PROGRAM EVALUATION. 3 Hours.

This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of and ability to evaluate human service programs. Relationships between program evaluation and program planning or administration are emphasized using both quantitative and qualitative data collection/analysis methods and approaches from the perspective of promoting diversity and social and economic justice in the evaluation of human service programs. Prerequisite: SOCW 5308 or Advanced Standing.

SOCW 5324. SOCIAL WORK SUPERVISION. 3 Hours.

This course introduces the culturally diverse roles, functions, and contexts of social work supervision between the supervisor and supervisee. Covers culturally sensitive administrative and clinical perspectives on the social work supervisor as a manager, educator, mentor, mediator, and leader in diverse human service organizations. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311 or SOCW 5312. Please note if co-requisite is dropped, this course will be dropped as well.

SOCW 5325. BUDGETING AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT. 3 Hours.

This course provides a basic overview of financial management applied specifically to human service agencies. Grounded in a historical lens that examines power relationships in human service financial management, this course emphasizes basic concepts and skill building in budgeting and fund raising; accounting principles; financial statements, and computerized financial information systems. Special emphasis is given to the role of participatory approaches in resource allocation and distribution for human services. Co-requisite: SOCW 5312. Please note that if the co-requisite is dropped, these course will be dropped also.

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. If the co-requisite is dropped, this one will be as well.

SOCW 5327. HUMAN BEHAVIOR IN MACRO ENVIRONMENTS. 3 Hours.

Offers advanced students the opportunity to study diverse 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 equitable 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 5329. 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 5332. DIRECT PRACTICE WITH AGING. 3 Hours.

Course presents an overview of current issues, trends, and practice in the care, treatment, and delivery of social services to diverse older adults and their families. Students learn practice procedures designed to equip them with the skills needed for effective social work practice, review major theories on aging, as well as evaluate needs and gaps in services to diverse older adults and their families. Particular attention is given to the intersections of older adults with gender, race, sexuality, age, education level, and other aspects of identity. Co-requisite: 5311. Please note if the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be dropped as well.

SOCW 5333. AGING AND SOCIAL POLICY. 3 Hours.

Social welfare policies and programs are examined in terms of the overall impact on older adults and society. Needs and gaps in services to older adults and their families are evaluated. Current issues in aging policy are examined. Particular attention is given to the intersections of policy with gender, race, sexuality, age, education level, and other aspects of identity. 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-spiritual 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 related to effective practice with older adults and family caregivers are also discussed, including innovative and emerging approaches (e.g. technology). Particular attention is given to the intersections of family caregiving with gender, race, sexuality, age, education level, and other aspects of identity. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. Please note if the co-requisite is not met, the course will be dropped.

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 through the lens of intersectionality taking into account intersections of race, gender, sexuality, educational level and other aspects of identity. It includes various perspectives including psychological, biological, sociological, and spiritual. Students will examine current social and economic issues impacting older adults, such as aging & healthcare policy, living arrangements, caregiving, technology, and sexuality. Theories are integrated into practice thus providing students a sound foundation for social work practice with diverse older adults. Students who receive credit for this course in the undergraduate program (SOCW 4335) may not repeat the course at the Master's level (SOCW 5335). Prerequisite: Prerequisite: SOCW 5301 and SOCW 5307 or Advanced Standing and not taken SOCW 4335.

SOCW 5342. DIRECT PRACTICE IN HEALTH CARE. 3 Hours.

Explores the central contribution of social work to comprehensive health care and health for diverse individuals and communities in theory and evidence; advanced knowledge and skills in human behavior theory relevant to health care including social determinants of health, as well as social work interventions to assess and ameliorate the psychological effects of illness and disability (across the lifespan), are included along with emerging roles for social work in prevention and health maintenance. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. If the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be as well.

SOCW 5343. HEALTH POLICY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE. 3 Hours.

Provides a critical historical overview of health policy in the United States, current and projected national and local health policies and roles of providers and consumers of health care and public health is examined; service demands, economic, access, and regulatory issues analyzed; relationships between governmental, voluntary, and commercial sectors studied; analytic frameworks for developing and understanding the impact of policy on diverse populations explored. Prerequisite: SOCW 5303.

SOCW 5344. HEALTH INSURANCE AND ACCESS TO CARE. 3 Hours.

Explores the history and underlying philosophy of managed care in health and social services, reviews interdisciplinary approaches and principles for understanding and critiquing health care systems, and covers current trends and practice issues. Assesses the potential for conflict between social work values and managed care systems. Builds skills for advancing health equity through administrative roles in managed care settings. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311 OR SOCW 5312. Please note that if the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be dropped as well. This course is offered at the undergraduate level as SOCW 4344. Students who take this at the undergraduate level may not repeat it at the graduate level.

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 both historical and present day policies, research and practices that contribute to health inequities across communities disproportionately impacted by health inequities. 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 health equity and reducing health inequities. Co-requisites: SOCW 5311 OR SOCW 5312. Please note if the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be dropped as well.

SOCW 5352. DIRECT PRACTICE IN MENTAL HEALTH. 3 Hours.

Using a bio-psycho-social risk and resilience perspective this direct practice course focuses on assessment, intervention and appropriate evidence based practices with those evidencing acute and chronic mental health problems, and disabilities in diverse populations. Applying a critical lens, students will explore the delivery of services, review historical and current service delivery systems (community mental health, transinstitutionalization, managed behavioral health care), and a wide range of community mental health problems. Additional topics include the function and critique of the Diagnostic Statistical Manual with a social justice perspective, mental health recovery principles. ethics, case management, treatment planning, person in environment, and substance abuse. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. Please not that if the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be dropped as well.

SOCW 5353. SOCIAL POLICY AND MENTAL HEALTH. 3 Hours.

This course explores programs, policies and systems in the field of mental health, and their impact on mental health consumers. Disparities occurring within mental healthcare systems will be explored using a health equity framework focusing on the differential impact policies may have on women, children and youth, individuals from diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans and immigrants/refugees. Approaches to policy analysis and implementation will be presented. Prerequisite: SOCW 5303.

SOCW 5354. PRINCIPLES OF SUBSTANCE MISUSE TREATMENT. 3 Hours.

This course provides a solid grounding in theory and treatment of substance misuse disorders. In keeping with the social work values of respecting the worth and dignity of all persons, the use of affirming and destigmatizing language is paramount. The application of assessment and screening tools, and implementation of evidence-based interventions, skills and techniques will be examined to include culturally informed diagnosis and treatment across a variety of behavioral health treatment settings. We will consider the importance of integrating identity into treatment through the consideration of gender, race, ethnicity, culture, age, and SOGIE (sexual orientation, gender identity and expression). This course will be taught from a strength-based social justice and trauma-informed perspective, with a focus on harm reduction, relapse prevention and sustained recovery. Prerequisite: SOCW 5311.

SOCW 5355. MILITARY SOCIAL WORK. 3 Hours.

The focus of this course is to examine military culture using a diversity framework that involves considering ethical implications for practice, comprehending prevalent social and health issues, and the effects of policies and health disparities across diverse social identities within varied military environments. Students enrolled in this course will analyze current advances in knowledge on the neurobiological underpinnings of human behavior and development pertinent to social and health issues as well as resilience to stress and adversity among diverse members of the military population. Students will identify and evaluate the relevant implications for social work practice with individuals, families, groups, programs/organizations, and communities using a multicultural multidimensional perspective in connection with social justice, social work values, knowledge, and skills. Students will also examine the structural and systematic arrangement and delivery of social welfare services at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels of social work practice.

SOCW 5356. SEMINAR IN COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION STRATEGIES. 3 Hours.

Explores the three historical phases CBT's development: (1) Behavioral, (2) Cognitive, and now (3) Mindfulness, Acceptance, and Commitment. Addresses interventions across life-span development, culture, etc., to address such clinical issues as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, cognitive disorders, bereavement, etc., using a multicultural multidimensional perspective. Teaches assessment and interventions drawn from evidence-based practice knowledge and informed practice wisdom and includes a variety of interventions, such as DBT, behavioral activation, cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, etc. Prerequisite: SOCW 5311.

SOCW 5357. GROUP DYNAMICS AND SOCIAL WORK PRACTICE. 3 Hours.

Examines contemporary social-psychological concepts and small group research using a multicultural framework, with a view to testing their applicability to practice propositions and operational principles, in work with both task and treatment groups that include diverse populations. Group work will be examined in terms of social justice, social work values, knowledge, and skills, as well as in terms of those populations who have historically been been harmed by structural and systematic arrangement and delivery of social welfare services at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. Please note if the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be as well.

SOCW 5358. TREATMENT OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS. 3 Hours.

Overview of the literature which describes physical, psychological, and the multitude of diverse 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 of diverse populations. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. Please note if the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be as well.

SOCW 5359. MILITARY FAMILIES. 3 Hours.

This course studies the social milieu in which military-connected families exist, their intersectional identities, the strengths that characterize them, and the challenges they navigate. Topics include cultural competence, military community demographics, ethics and values, self-care of practitioners, social theories, military policies, diversity among military-connected families, differences in service status (e.g., active duty, National Guard, Reserves), operational challenges (e.g., deployment, frequent moves), Service Member/Veteran mental health, dependent special needs (e.g., educational, medical), marital issues (e.g., divorce, domestic violence), and transitions away from the Military (e.g., retirement, separation, death). Special emphasis is placed on diversity, intersectional identities, and military differences (e.g., rank, Branch, service status). Students who complete this course will integrate cultural competence, professional ethics (military and human service professions), social theories, and military policy into their understanding of military-connected families.

SOCW 5360. TREATMENT OF MILITARY POPULATIONS. 3 Hours.

The focus of this advanced course is on assessment and intervention and advanced theory and evidence with military populations across the life course, especially those evidencing service-connected acute and chronic mental health problems and disabilities and challenges in community reintegration during and after military service. The course addresses the delivery of services to various military groups (service members, veterans, military families, military spouses/partners, military health disparities groups), service delivery systems (community mental health, managed behavioral health care, Veterans Health Administration, Military Treatment Facilities), and a wide range of problems, including specific training in relevant social work practice skills such as diagnosis of signature injuries using standardized instruments/protocols, prolonged exposure therapy, psychosocial rehabilitation, and deployment-related psychoeducation. Topics include well-being, ethics, treatment planning, DSM conditions (including substance use and misuse), and military culture-based syndromes. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. If the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be as well.

SOCW 5361. MILITARY TRAUMA. 3 Hours.

The focus of this course is to examine military culture using a trauma-informed framework that involves considering ethical implications for practice, comprehending the various types of trauma that may impact service members and their families, and the effects of policies and health disparities across diverse social identities within varied military environments. This course addresses the needs of service members, veterans and their families at different developmental phases of the military life cycle. In addition, theoretical and practical approaches to treatment of chronic stress, acute stress, and trauma-related stress disorders are examined with the goal of advancing students' knowledge of best practices and current evidence-based models. Prerequisite: SOCW 5355.

SOCW 5362. DIRECT PRACTICE WITH CHILDREN AND FAMILIES. 3 Hours.

This course focuses on the preparing students for social work practice who will work with children, youth, and families in various employment settings. Throughout this course students will examine evidence-based interventions (and their theoretical roots) that build on strengths and resources of families with the intention of promoting social justice and cultural competence in social work practice with children, youth, and families. The course will address key areas of diversity among children, youth, and families, such as family structure, age, ability, religion, spirituality, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity and expression), racial and ethnic identity, class, and culture. Specific techniques considered include child therapy, play therapy, behavioral contracting, cognitive-behavioral interventions, and crisis intervention. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. Please note if the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be as well.

SOCW 5363. SOCIAL POLICY FOR CHILDREN & YOUTH. 3 Hours.

Examination of current policies, programs and practices impacting children and youth. Disproportionality and disparities occurring within child and youth serving systems (such as child welfare, the education system, the healthcare system and the juvenile justice system) will be explored, focusing on the differential impact of these policies on youth from diverse racial/ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ youth and immigrant/refugee youth. Through analysis, research, and advocacy, students will increase their knowledge of trauma informed, equitable policies and practice with children and youth. Prerequisite: SOCW 5303.

SOCW 5365. CLINICAL ASSESSMENT OF CHILD MALTREATMENT. 3 Hours.

Examines knowledge/technique in child physical/emotional/sexual abuse, physical/emotional neglect, among diverse populations. Includes interviewing, identification, legal issues, assessment/evaluation, and follow-up with an intersectional lens to examine the role of each of these in diverse communities. Prerequisite: SOCW 5311; Co-requisite: SOCW 5362 OR SOCW 5352 OR SOCW 5342. Please note that if the co-requisite course is dropped, this will be as well.

SOCW 5366. SEMINAR IN WOMEN'S ISSUES. 3 Hours.

Explores women's issues in human behavior theory, practice theory, and policy. Using an intersectional lens, the historical, political, and socioeconomic forces that maintain sexism among diverse groups are discussed. Environmental influences are examined in relation to social justice, social work values, knowledge, and skills. This course is also offered as SOCW 4366 in the BSW Program. Students receiving credit at the BSW level may not repeat this course for Master's level credit. Prerequisite: SOCW 5301, SOCW 5307.

SOCW 5367. TREATING PARENT-CHILD RELATIONSHIPS. 3 Hours.

Evidence-based treatment strategies and evaluation methods relevant to treating parent-child relationships in diverse families; intervention strategies and evaluation methods will be explored taking into account the developmental, social, and cultural factors that may influence the diversified parent-child dynamics, such as gender, power, socialization practices, race, ethnicity, and among others. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. Please note if the co-requisite course is dropped, this will be dropped as well.

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 couples across a variety of client populations. Emphasis is placed on the social environment, and its impact on the sources and patterns of intimate partner dissatisfaction and conflict. An additional focus will be on identifying components of mutually satisfying intimate partner relationships. Ways to appropriately adapt intervention approaches to be inclusive of couples of diverse sexual orientations/gender identities and from a wide range of religious, ethnic and cultural backgrounds will be explored. Prerequisite: SOCW 5311 or concurrent enrollment. Please note if the co-requisite course is dropped, this will be dropped as well.

SOCW 5369. SEMINAR IN FAMILY THERAPY. 3 Hours.

SOCW 5369 aims to compare various approaches to working with the family as a total system; enhance cognitive understanding of similarities and differences in theory and goals of family treatment in many fields of practice; and integrate strategies and techniques of each method into an individual style of therapy. Additionally, in recognition of power structures that have silenced indigenous and minority voices in assessing and treating families, this course will assign readings from diverse authors, as well as encourage student discussion and assignments in an activist-oriented classroom environment that seeks to understand how social work benefits from and perpetuates colonialism. 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 diverse children and their families in the school setting. This includes skills in assessment, prevention, and intervention in providing services to students that are marginalized for numerous reasons including race, gender, skin color, religion, immigrant status, disability, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status among other factors. Students will learn to use intervention skills that address each level of the ecosystem's perspective in schools. Co-requisite: SOCW 5311. Please note if the co-requisite is dropped, this course will be dropped also.

SOCW 5371. INEQUITIES AND INCARCERATION. 3 Hours.

This course surveys mass incarceration in the U.S. criminal justice system as a racialized and classist system of control. First, this course will contextualize the US criminal justice system, both historically and through global comparisons. Then students will be introduced to four broad content areas: entering the criminal justice system (school-to-prison pipeline and policing), who is detained (demographics and common mental health and substance use issues) and what they experience in detention (including COVID-19 in jails and prisons), experiences and problems encountered when returning citizens reenter society, and trends in criminal justice reform advocacy (including problem-solving courts and advocacy efforts such as Black Lives Matter). Finally, the course considers the social work grand challenge of smart decarceration as a path towards reform specific to social workers. Also offered as SOCW 4371 in the BSW program. Students who take this course at the undergraduate level may not repeat it at the graduate level.

SOCW 5381. FOUNDATION FIELD SPLIT II. 3 Hours.

Students will complete a minimum of 240 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate generalist social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements. Prerequisite: SOCW 5581 and SOCW 5307.

SOCW 5385. FOUNDATION FIELD BLOCK II. 3 Hours.

Students will complete a minimum of 240 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate generalist social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements. Prerequisite: Pre-requisite or Co-requisite: SOCW 5307; Co-requisite: SOCW 5585. Please note if co-requisite is dropped, this course will be dropped as well.

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.

This course focuses on the cycle of practice from assessment and engagement to termination and evaluation. This course serves as the capstone for non-thesis MSW students and integrates an anti-oppressive lens toward promoting social justice across all aspects of practice. 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 supervising committee. Defense in a final oral examination is required. Prerequisite: SOCW 5396.

SOCW 5482. ADVANCED FIELD SPLIT I. 4 Hours.

Students will complete a minimum of 240 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate advanced (Aging, Children & Families, Community and Administrative Practice, Health, or Mental Health) social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements. 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.

Students will complete a minimum of 240 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate advanced (Aging, Children & Families, Community and Administrative Practice, Health, or Mental Health) social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements. Prerequisite: SOCW 5482.

SOCW 5485. ADVANCED FIELD BLOCK I. 4 Hours.

Students will complete a minimum of 480 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate generalist social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements. Additionally, students will spend two hours a week in a seminar course to reflect and integrate social work knowledge, theory, and skills learned over the course of the program that they are applying in their field placement. Prerequisite: SOCW 5312 OR SOCW 5311 AND SOCW 5332 OR SOCW 5342 OR SOCW 5352 OR SOCW 5362; Co-requisite: SOCW 5486.

SOCW 5486. ADVANCED FIELD BLOCK II. 4 Hours.

Students will complete a minimum of 480 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate advanced (Aging, Children & Families, Community and Administrative Practice, Health, or Mental Health) social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements. Prerequisite: SOCW 5312 OR SOCW 5311 AND SOCW 5332 OR SOCW 5342 OR SOCW 5352 OR SOCW 5362; Co-requisite: SOCW 5485.

SOCW 5581. FOUNDATION FIELD SPLIT I. 5 Hours.

Students will complete a minimum of 240 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate generalist social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements. Additionally, students will spend two hours a week in a seminar course to reflect and integrate social work knowledge, theory, and skills learned over the course of the program that they are applying in their field placement. Prerequisite: SOCW 5301, SOCW 5304, SOCW 5306; Co-requisite: SOCW 5307.

SOCW 5585. FOUNDATION FIELD BLOCK I. 5 Hours.

Students will complete a minimum of 480 clock hours in a supervised field placement. Students will gain social work experience in an agency that will integrate generalist social work practice concepts into professional social work experience. Students will follow the NASW Code of Ethics and work with an anti-oppressive lens while in their field placements. Additionally, students will spend two hours a week in a seminar course to reflect and integrate social work knowledge, theory, and skills learned over the course of the program that they are applying in their field placement. Prerequisite: Pre-requisite or Co-requisite: SOCW 5307; Co-requisite: SOCW 5385. Please note that if the co-requisite is dropped, this course will also be dropped.

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 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 6349. MIXED METHODS RESEARCH. 3 Hours.

This course will provide an applied overview of mixed methods research designs with an emphasis on their utility in social justice-oriented research. It will foster student synthesis and reflection on qualitative and quantitative research training, exploring mixed methods as one paradigm to enhance scholarly insight into critical issues. The course will cover the epistemological underpinnings of mixed methods research, the development of mixed methods research questions, core mixed methods research designs, complex mixed methods research designs, and appropriate methods for collecting, analyzing, integrating, and reporting mixed methods research. Prerequisite: SOCW 6340 and SOCW 6348.

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 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 twice. 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.

Faculty

Debra Woody
Sr. Associate Dean & Associate Professor

Diane Mitschke
Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs & Associate Professor

Poco Kernsmith
PhD Program Director & Professor

Allison Tomlinson
Director of Undergraduate Programs & Assistant Professor of Practice

Richard Hoefer
Professor

Vijayan Pillai
Professor

Regina T. Praetorius
Professor

Scott Ryan
Professor

Noelle Fields
Associate Professor

Hui Huang
Associate Professor

Anne Nordberg
Associate Professor

Eusebius Small
Associate Professor

Ling Xu
Associate Professor

Philip Baiden
Assistant Professor

Saltanat Childress
Assistant Professor

Jandel Crutchfield
Assistant Professor

Sophia Fantus
Assistant Professor

Genevieve Graaf
Assistant Professor

Danielle Harrell
Assistant Professor

Jaclyn Kirsch
Assistant Professor

Catherine LaBrenz
Assistant Professor

Kathy Lee
Assistant Professor

Rebecca Mauldin
Assistant Professor

Jennifer Murphy
Assistant Professor

Yangjin Park
Assistant Professor

Rachel Voth Schrag
Assistant Professor

Christine Spadola
Assistant Professor

Micki Washburn
Assistant Professor

Marcela Nava
Assistant Professor

Donna Schuman
Assistant Professor

Christian Vazquez
Assistant Professor

Bethany Wood
Assistant Professor

Kiva Harper
Associate Professor of Practice

Pamela Johnson
Associate Professor of Practice

LaShaunn Bold
Associate Professor of Practice

Karla Arenas-Itotia
Assistant Professor of Practice

Michael Bennett
Assistant Professor of Practice

Darlene Hunter
Assistant Professor of Practice

Karen Magruder
Assistant Professor of Practice

Tiara Okoruwa
Assistant Professor of Practice

Tracy Orwig
Assistant Professor of Practice

Kelli Rogers

De'An Roper
Assistant Professor of Practice

Marie Salimbeni
Assistant Professor of Practice

Donald Schuman
Assistant Professor of Practice

Sherece Shavel
Assistant Professor of Practice

Joyce White
Assistant Professor of Practice