Social Work (SWRK)
SWRK 1000 - Introduction to Social Work
3 Credits
This course provides an overview of the social work profession which includes values, history, fields of practice, issues of social welfare, social justice and vulnerable populations. Current controversies, future trends, and career opportunities are explored.
Attributes: UUC:Dignity, Ethics & Just Soc, UUC:Social & Behavioral Sci
SWRK 2300 - Human Behavior Social Environment
3 Credits
In this Human Behavior in the Social Environment course, students will critically engage with basic concepts, theories, and empirical findings about human behavior in multiple system levels, considering biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of human behavior and experience.
Attributes: UUC:Social & Behavioral Sci
SWRK 3100 - Social Policy for Social Justice
3 Credits
The study of social policy and its resultant social welfare system is viewed as a study of the choices which a society makes in satisfying human needs, pursuing social justice, and attaining human goals. This course examines social policy within the context of its historical development, its current functions within contemporary society, and introduces students to the relationship between social policy and social work practice. The course examines the substance of policy choices, the values and beliefs that underlie these choices, the political process through which the choices are made, and the potential roles of social workers in that process.
Attributes: BHS-Professional, UUC:Dignity, Ethics & Just Soc, Urban Poverty - Cycles Exclusn
SWRK 3200 - Dismantling Oppression: Exploring Equity & Inclusion
3 Credits
The course is an examination of social justice activities that seek to expose barriers created towards a realization of a more equal and just society. The focus is on differences and similarities in the experiences, needs and beliefs of people and includes perspectives on discrimination and oppression based on race, gender, class, age, sexual orientation, ethnicity, mental and physical disability, and/or spiritual orientation. This course focuses on human diversity within the context of anti-oppression framework in social work. The course also addresses how group membership affects access to resources, services, and opportunities and relates to risk factors for specific population groups.
Attributes: African American Studies, BHS-Professional, Social Science Req (A&S), UUC:Identities in Context, Urban Poverty - Cycles Exclusn, Women's & Gender Studies
SWRK 3300 - Social Work Practice with Individuals
3 Credits
This is the first of four courses in the practice sequence, in which students are introduced to the competencies relevant to generalist social work practice and oral and written communication skills. Using the individual as the client system, this course provides a foundation in skills, theories and methods of generalist practice that can be built upon in the other practice courses. This course will also emphasize interviewing, engagement, assessment, intervention, evaluation, and termination.
Restrictions:
Students with a classification of Freshman may not enroll.
SWRK 3350 - Social Work Practice with Groups
3 Credits
This course will focus on the core knowledge, values, and skills for planning, implementing, and evaluating groups used in generalist social work practice. Particular attention is given to groups for diverse client systems and populations-at-risk. This is the second of a four-course sequence in theories and methods of generalist social work practice. This course uses a systems framework integrating several different group social work theories and perspectives. This course addresses the need for a beginning generalist social worker to promote social justice and to be knowledgeable of human behavior and the social environment, policy and research related to effective group work.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 3300*
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Restrictions:
Students with a classification of Freshman may not enroll.
SWRK 3440 - Social Work Practice with Families
3 Credits
Building upon the skills developed in SWRK 3300: Social Work Practice with Individuals, the focus of SWRK 3440: Social Work Practice with Families is to expand those skills into work with families. Specific theories and interventions associated with families will be discussed. This course introduces students to competencies relevant to a generalist perspective utilizing a systems framework for social work practice with families. Core knowledge of values and skills related to assessment, intervention, evaluation, and termination, with an emphasis on the social justice concerns of families, will be discussed.
SWRK 3500 - Social Work Practice with Organizations & Communities
3 Credits
The course utilizes a generalist practice perspective on values, knowledge, and skills within a systems framework for planned change with a particular focus on work with populations of special concern to social work. Groups experiencing social and economic injustices based on racial, ethnic, socio-cultural, and gender characteristics are emphasized in this course. Students will learn skills related to maintaining and influencing organizations, community organizing, and community development.
Prerequisite(s): Minimum Earned Credits of 60
SWRK 3600 - Financial Capability and Asset Building Practice
3 Credits
The course provides an introduction to the field of financial capability and asset building practice. Financial capability and asset building practice includes content about poverty, personal household finance, financial access, and related economic concepts.Discussion is focused on economic and financial concepts as related individuals and families across the life cycle and communities, with special attention to oppressed populations and communities experiencing poverty and near-poverty. Social policy and policy change efforts related to these areas are also examined.
Prerequisite(s): Minimum Earned Credits of 45
Restrictions:
Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Social Work.
Attributes: UUC:Collaborative Inquiry
SWRK 3700 - Research Methods for a Diverse Society
3 Credits
This course is designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and skills necessary to conduct real world research with multiple populations in different settings. Special emphasis will be given to both rigorous research on a range of social and psychological adversities (including violence, poverty, disability, racism, sexism, and heterosexism) and feasible evaluation of policy and practice to alleviate these adversities in a variety of fields (social work, healthcare, education, and community mental health). The course will focus on conducting ethical and culturally sensitive research on a variety of vulnerable populations in the United States.
Prerequisite(s): Minimum Earned Credits of 60
Attributes: UUC:Social & Behavioral Sci
SWRK 4100 - Social Work Practicum I
5 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
Students will be assigned responsibility for work with individuals, groups, and communities in various social work sites under professional supervision.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 3300, SWRK 3400, or SWRK 3500); SWRK 1000
Corequisite(s): SWRK 4150
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Junior or Senior.
Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Social Work.
Attributes: UUC:Reflection-in-Action
SWRK 4150 - Integrative Practice Seminar I
1 Credit
This seminar is designed to facilitate the integration of the content of social work courses with the anticipated job demands of social work practice. It will address some of the practical questions and problems faced by students in the course of their practicum placements. Co-requisite: SWRK 4100. Must be Junior or Senior to enroll.
Corequisite(s): SWRK 4100
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Junior or Senior.
Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Social Work.
Attributes: UUC:Reflection-in-Action
SWRK 4200 - Social Work Practicum II
5 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
Students will be assigned responsibility for work with individuals, groups, and communities in various social work sites under professional supervision. This course is a continuation of SWRK-4100.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 4100; SWRK 4150
Corequisite(s): SWRK 4250
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Senior.
Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Social Work.
Attributes: UUC:Reflection-in-Action
SWRK 4250 - Integrative Practice Seminar II
1 Credit
Continuation of SWRK-4150.
Corequisite(s): SWRK 4200
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Senior.
Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Social Work.
Attributes: UUC:Reflection-in-Action
SWRK 5001 - Supervision and Organizational Behavior Management
3 Credits
This course builds upon the basic principles of learning and applied behavior analysis presented during previous courses in the Applied Behavior Analysis program curriculum. This course develops students understanding of evidenced-based strategies for supervision, organizational behavior management, group contingencies and meta-contingencies, and influencing behavioral change of employees and staff working with clients/consumers of behavior analytic services. Course content supports the social work value of social justice, as it relates to provisions of professional services to persons with disabilities. (Offered in Summer)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5002 - Philosophy of Behavioral Science
3 Credits
This course builds upon the basic principles of learning and applied behavior analysis presented during previous courses in the Applied Behavior Analysis curriculum. This course will highlight the philosophical underpinnings of behavioral science, including Radical Behaviorism, and how the application of such theoretical principles can impact individuals, groups, and macro-level social systems (e.g., government, religious institutions, etc). Concomitantly, the course will focus on verbal behavior and derived relational responding across phylogenic, ontogenetic, and cultural levels of analyses. The goal of the course is to refine students’ conceptual knowledge of the science of human behavior generally, and as it relates to aspects of social systems (including verbal behavior). At the end of the course, students will be able to demonstrate understanding of Radical Behaviorism, behavioral approaches to verbal behavior, and how behavioral science can address societal problems.
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5320 - Sentencing Mitigation
3 Credits
This interdisciplinary class, comprised of both law and social work students, explores the role of sentencing advocacy in state and federal sentencing systems, the factors that influence its quality, and the insights from social scientists that can critique and improve it. The class will introduce the students to several guest speakers (defense lawyers, prosecutors, judges, social scientists and mitigation specialists) who will put the role and quality of sentencing advocacy in perspective. Most significantly, students will learn themselves, through hands-on involvement in actual cases, how to strategize, research, and develop an effective sentencing memorandum.
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5700 - Values & Ethics in Social Work
3 Credits
This course is a comprehensive review of the values and ethical dimensions of social work practice.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5819 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher
Attributes: MPH-Public Health Practice, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5701 - Social Justice: Special Topics
3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
This course is designed to help students understand the meaning of social justice and community building, within the context of social work practice. Based on social work's historical mission of intervention in high risk communities while advocating for social reform, this course is aimed at teaching students the history, theory and practice realities of community building locally and globally through discussion, research, and exploration. The norms and values that support the characteristics of a just society will be stressed. Students will learn to compare and contrast current social and economic conditions with the values and norms underlying a just society as a structure for critically analyzing situations. Students will gain knowledge of models and procedures for community organizing for social justice. Learning will take place as we focus on groups experiencing social and economic injustices based on racial, ethnic, socio-cultural, gender, and other characteristics. Offered in spring.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
SWRK 5702 - Social Policy
3 Credits
This course focuses on social policy within the context of its historical development and its current functions within contemporary society. It examines the substance of policy choices, the values and beliefs that underlie these choices, the political process through which the choices are made, and the potential roles of social workers in that process.
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, MPH-Public Health Practice, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5703 - International Social Work
1-3 Credits (Repeatable up to 12 credits)
The course involves an in-depth examination of global, social, and economic issues of development; and explores the agencies, elements, and patterns of responses used to address hunger, health care, education and other issues impacting the people of developing countries.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
SWRK 5705 - Practice in Global Issues
3 Credits
This course is designed to provide students with a working foundation for social work and public health practice in a global context. It is intended for students preparing to go on their international practicum or internship or those who are interested in working in a country other than their own. While this course is not intended to be a prerequisite for SWRK 5703, it is highly encouraged. (Offered every Spring)
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5706 - Antiracism and Social Work Practice
3 Credits
In this course students will integrate social justice theory and practice towards developing a culturally affirming, inclusive, antiracist approach to social work. Students will critically explore how race, racism and white supremacy continues to impact and shape U.S. policy, health, institutions, systems, culture, beliefs and the social work profession. Students will explore and critically examine their own racial identity and socialization in order to understand how race and racism has impacted their attitudes, beliefs, values, biases and actions. Students will also gain competence in implementing inclusive, affirming and antiracist social work practices at the interpersonal, organizational, community and system levels.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); SWRK 5841 with a grade of B or higher
SWRK 5707 - Policy Practice for Social Justice
3 Credits
In this course, students will gain leadership skills to effectively advocate for social policy and economic justice. Course content will prepare students to use a range of tools and skills to effectively change or enhance societal structures. Social work skills in policy practice with oppressed and vulnerable groups will be explored in the student’s area of concentration.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, MPH-Global Health, MPH-Health Management & Policy, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5708 - Research and Evaluation in Social Work Practice
3 Credits
This course is designed to equip social work students with needed research literacy, knowledge and skills to engage in ethical and evidence-informed social work practice and evaluate programs. Through a social justice framework, students will build skills in locating, critically reviewing and using research to prepare for their professional roles as critical consumers of research to inform practice and program decisions. Students will be prepared to participate in a range of research activities including (a) conceptualization of research problems; (b) review of the literature; (c) evaluation of research design; (d) sampling; (e) selection of measurement tools; (f) data collection; (g) interpretation of data analyses and (h) ethical considerations in the conduct of research. Students will learn to identify and apply evaluation methods and use theoretical and conceptual models to develop a proposal for a practice or program evaluation.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5842* with a grade of S or higher; ((SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S))
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
SWRK 5714 - Interprofessional Perspectives in Geriatric Care
3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
Interprofessional approaches that address the medical, social, instrumental and functional issues and needs of older adults will be examined. Information about interprofessional geriatric practice and social issues affecting the well-being of older adults will be provided. Clinical, theoretical, and educational perspectives will be presented by interprofessional faculty and professionals with expertise in geriatric assessment and intervention. Students will attend two 2-hour classes on TBD at Tegeler Hall and the 3rd International Cognitive Stimulation Therapy Conference and the SLU Summer Geriatric Institute as a group. (Offered in Summer)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5715 - Practice with Families & Communities Experiencing Poverty
3 Credits
This course is designed to examine the needs of families and communities of all sizes that are struggling with poverty. A variety of poverty reduction models are examined to develop an understanding of multilevel assessment and practice interventions focused on empowering families and communities. Patterns of social and economic injustices that result in the inequitable distribution of resources and opportunities are also examined.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5720 - School Social Work
3 Credits
This course provides the student with the basic knowledge and skills needed by the school social worker. Content includes the historical development of school social work; education and special education laws and mandates; school social work processes including referrals and assessments; and the social work roles of clinician, broker, advocate, educator, consultant and researcher in the school.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
SWRK 5721 - Community Theory & Practice
3 Credits
In this course, students gain advanced knowledge and skills for community practice. Course content focuses on theories of community and social systems as well as practice theories emphasizing social change, empowerment, and promotion of social and economic justice for culturally diverse and at-risk communities. The roles of community organizer, community developer, and social planner are emphasized in this course.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5722 - Supervision and Management in Health and Human Service Organizations
3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
This course develops the knowledge, values, skills, and critical thinking processes necessary for anticipating leadership and supervision opportunities in health and social service organizations. Students will critically analyze what is involved in management and administrative supervision as well as in providing ongoing reflective supervision to other clinicians. Key components of this course include how to create and shape spaces for supervision and reflective practice as well as using theory and putting theory into practice in administrative, clinical, and reflective supervision. Students will explore best practices for new, interim, or recently promoted supervisors as well as ways and approaches to institutionalize best practices across administrative, clinical, and reflective supervision. (Offered in Spring)
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5725* with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5750* with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5751* with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5787* with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5702* with a grade of C or higher
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
SWRK 5725 - Human Behavior & the Social Environment
3 Credits
This course is an introduction to theories, knowledge, and perspectives which explain the behavior of individuals and social systems. The theories are the basis of social work practice.
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, MPH-Health Management & Policy, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5731 - Fall Inter-Professional Team Seminar
0 Credits
This course is designed to provide students with a learning experience focused upon client system centered care as members of an interprofessional team. The purpose of the team will be to provide education, consultation, and/or direct care for medically underserved individuals/families using an interprofessional plan of care. The interprofessional team will identify a pertinent health-related issue with their chosen population. They will cooperate, collaborate, communicate, and integrate in order to provide a holistic approach to care. Each professional will use his or her knowledge and expertise to maximize the productivity of the interprofessional team to improve health outcomes. Seminars will provide opportunities for students to discuss and reflect on how service activities express the professional obligation to work as change agents for a more just society. Registration and attendance in one Fall section of Saint Louis University’s Inter-Professional Team Seminar is required for all MSW students in the Clinical concentration.
SWRK 5733 - Advanced Clinical Practice with Individuals
3 Credits
This course builds on the foundation practice course (SWRK 5750) and provides students with the theories and practice skills needed to work with individuals from an advanced generalist perspective. Emphasis is placed on applying principles of evidence informed practice in assessment, treatment planning, and selecting and evaluating interventions with individuals. Special attention is given to identifying and being responsive to cultural complexities in social work practice with diverse populations, calling attention to diverse cultural influences while simultaneously recognizing the unique ways in which the mix of these influences affect individuals, including the social work practitioner.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5842* with a grade of S or higher
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5735 - Complementary Approaches to Healing in Social Work Practice
3 Credits
This course introduces the student to alternative and complementary schools of thought in medicine, including allopathic, anthroposophic, ayurvedic, Chinese, chiropractic, homeopathic, naturopathic, and osteopathic approaches to healing.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5736 - Advanced Clinical Practice with Families and Groups
3 Credits
Building on the foundation courses and the generalist course on practice with individuals, families and groups, this course is designed to provide students with advanced generalist theories, knowledge, values, and skills for evidence-informed practice with families and groups in a variety of settings and with diverse populations. Students will develop, analyze, integrate and apply research evidence, diverse theories and practice skills related to assessment, treatment planning, intervention, evaluation and termination. Special emphasis on the establishment of professional relationships characterized by mutuality, collaboration, and respect as well as ethical and social justice concerns will be highlighted throughout the course. Students will.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Foundation Integrative with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher or SLU MSW Foundation Practicum with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S)
SWRK 5742 - Evidence Based Practices in Community Mental Health
3 Credits
This course focuses on a person-centered, recovery-oriented and evidence-based framework for social work practice with individuals diagnosed with psychiatric disabilities and/or substance use disorders. Students develop skills in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning and intervention of major psychiatric and substance use disorders. The nature and diagnosis of psychopathology and the ethical integration of the DSM into clinical social work practice is critically analyzed. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the complex nature of co-occurring medical, mental health and substance use disorders and in the integration of a range of evidence-based interventions in the area of mental health and substance use practice.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5734* with a grade of B or higher
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5744 - Substance Use Disorder Interventions
3 Credits
The overall goal of the course is to increase student knowledge about alcohol and drug abuse/dependency and the recovery process. This course surveys the theoretical, practice, policy, and research literature that deal with the etiology, dynamics, treatment, and prevention of substance use disorders in contemporary U.S. society. The view conveyed in this course is that substance use and abuse, its causes, its effects, and its remedies are extremely broad, systemic, multi-level, and multivariate.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5745 - Health & Mental Health Interventions with Older Adults
3 Credits
This course explores skills and competencies needed to effectively work with older adults and their families. It provides an overview of health and mental health issues with an emphasis on holistic and systemic assessments and social work practice interventions. The environmental, psychosocial, biological and spiritual influences on health and mental health are highlighted. Clinical, programmatic and policy interventions known to promote healthy behaviors are discussed. Attention is paid to social justice, ethics and the law, particularly as it relates to economic deprivation and oppression leading to the inequitable distribution of health services to older adults.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5746 - Principles & Concepts in Applied Behavior Analysis
3 Credits
This course familiarizes students with the fundamental concepts and principles and philosophical assumptions of behavior analysis as well as the basic concepts of operant and respondent conditioning. Students review some of the basic laboratory research that has illuminated the principles of behavior. The material covered contributes to prepare students to work in the field of behavior analysis and related fields for board certification in Applied Behavior Analysis. Course content supports the social work value of social justice to provide professional services to persons with disabilities.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5747 - Behavioral Assessment
3 Credits
This is a graduate course that will develop student’s basic knowledge about behavioral assessment methods and intervention selection in the field of applied behavior analysis. This course will review some of the basic assumptions and characteristics that define the field. The material covered in this course will prepare students working in the field of behavior analysis/related field and for board certification in Applied Behavior Analysis. Course content supports the social work value of social justice to provide professional services to all individuals requiring behavioral interventions. (Offered in Spring)
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Restrictions:
Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Applied Behavioral Analysis.
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5748 - Behavior Change & Processes in Applied Behavior Analysis
3 Credits
This course expands students’ basic knowledge with respect to behavior analysis fundamental concepts and principles and philosophical assumptions including the basic behavioral principles of operant and respondent conditioning. This course develops students working understanding of the use of these principles in behavior change strategies and interventions in the field of applied behavior analysis. Students review some of the fundamental applied literature that demonstrates the efficacy of behavioral strategies and that continue to define the field. The material covered prepares students for work in the field of behavior analysis/related field and for board certification in Applied Behavior Analysis. Course content supports the social work value of social justice to provide professional services to persons with disabilities.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5749 - Ethics in Behavior Analysis
3 Credits
This course will familiarize students with the ethical issues confronting those working as behavior analysts. Students will learn the ethical responsibilities inherent to working in their chosen field by exploring the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts as well as other relevant fields’ codes of ethics. Students will also explore issues of social justice and inequities that currently exist within the field of behavior analysis. They will explore their own biases and how these can influence their decision making when working with clients. The ethical standards in this course will prepare students working in the field of behavior analysis and prepare them for board certification in Applied Behavior Analysis. (Offered in Spring)
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5750 - Social Work Practice with Individuals, Families, & Groups
3 Credits
This course prepares students to apply a generalist perspective and systems framework to direct social work practice with individuals, families, and groups. This course emphasizes the basics of communication, interviewing, relationship building, and professional use of self, skills essential to effective social work assessment, intervention and evaluation. Theories and practice skills related to social work with individuals, families, and groups will be the primary focus.
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5751 - Social Work Practice with Communities & Organizations
3 Credits
This course prepares student to apply a generalist perspective and systems framework to social work practice with communities and organizations as well as task/problem-solving groups within larger systems and settings.
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, MPH-Health Management & Policy, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5752 - Co-Occurring Disorder Counseling
3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
Students in this course will achieve competence in the theory and techniques of assessment and stage-appropriate treatment of persons with substance use and co-occurring disorders. (Offered every Fall)
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5755 - Social Work Practice in the Health Field
3 Credits
This course provides the framework for social work practice in the health care field. This course will cover the array of social work practice approaches and nature of interdisciplinary practice in various health settings such as clinics, hospice, skilled nursing care, and hospitals.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5761 - Evidence-Based Practice with Children & Youth
3 Credits
This advanced clinical practice course in the Clinical Concentration builds upon the foundation level practice course and prepares students for direct social work practice with children and youth across child serving, behavioral health and integrated settings.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5762 - Diagnosis & Assessment in Clinical Practice
3 Credits
This course is designed to assist in the development of skills related to the diagnosis and assessment of psychopathology. Issues related to the etiology of psychopathology and the historical construction and development of diagnostic categories will be assessed. Special emphasis will be placed on the exploration, understanding and critical analysis of the nature and diagnosis of psychopathology and the integration of the DSM-IV-TR into clinical social work practice. While students will develop skills in the ethical use of the DSM-IV-TR in their practice, they will at the same time critically analyze the nature of clinical diagnosis as it relates to issues of gender, culture, age, sexual orientation, political power and socioeconomic status. Ethical issues to the integration of the DSM-IV-TR will be explored and the relationship between psychiatry and social work will be analyzed. Students will be challenged develop solutions to the paradigmatic and ethical dilemmas associated with the use.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher
Attributes: MPH-Health Management & Policy, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5771 - Intimate Partner Violence
3 Credits
The focus of the course is on ways to reduce the incidence and impact of intimate partner violence. Students address and examine the theoretical understandings for violence against women and other intimate partner violence as well as the need for direct services, community organizing, and public policy changes that will help end intimate partner violence.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
SWRK 5772 - Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Social Work Practice
3 Credits
Students in this course will learn basic knowledge and skills of cognitive-behavior therapy as they relate to stage-appropriate assessment and treatment of persons with co-occurring mental illness and substance use issues. These skills will include developing a therapeutic alliance, problem formulation, assessment of maladaptive thoughts and schemas, cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, development of various coping skills and relapse prevention. Students will learn how to integrate other treatment approaches such as harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness with cognitive-behavioral approaches in order to assist people to achieve and maintain therapeutic goals.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725, SWRK 5702, SWRK 5750, and SWRK 5751); (SWRK 5831* with a grade of S or higher, SWRK 5841* with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5821* with a grade of S or higher)
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5773 - Approaches to Trauma Care
3 Credits
This is an introduction to the study of trauma ranging from violence, natural disasters, child abuse and other forms of traumatic experience and its impact on client populations served in the field of social work. The implications of trauma are explored through various theoretical frameworks and assessment practices that address the biological, psychological, sociological and spiritual effects on individuals, families and communities. Theories and models of crisis intervention are presented, as well as their application in clinical practice with survivors of violent events and natural disasters. Students also examine and develop skills necessary to utilize evidence- based treatments with specific populations.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S); SWRK 5762*
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5774 - Measurement & Experimental Design
3 Credits
This course develops students basic knowledge related to single subject research design, measurement and application of the empirical approach to evaluation of effectiveness of interventions in the field of applied behavior analysis. Students review some of the basic assumptions and characteristics that define the field. The material covered prepares students for work in the field of behavior analysis/related field and for board certification in Applied Behavior Analysis. Course content supports the social work value of social justice to provide professional services to persons with disabilities.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5746
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5777 - Clinical Approaches to Practice with Couples and Families
3 Credits
This course is designed to help you develop knowledge and skills about various approaches to family and couples practice from a social work perspective. An examination of the basic theoretical assumptions underlying family systems approaches and the practice principles that evolved from them is offered. An exploration of evidence-based practices and the application of these practices with various populations will be a focus of this course. An important aspect of the course is a consideration of the ramifications for social justice and other social work values and ethics from a family systems perspective.
SWRK 5778 - Motivational Interviewing
3 Credits
Students in this course will learn the theory and skills of motivational interviewing as they relate to stage-appropriate assessment and treatment of persons with co-occurring health, mental health and substance use issues. These skills will include: (1) using empathy and the skills of open ended questioning, affirmation, reflective listening and summarizing to develop discrepancies between behaviors and goals; (2) rolling with resistance; (3) eliciting, recognizing and reinforcing change talk; and (4) negotiating a change plan. Students will learn how to integrate motivational interviewing with assessment and treatment planning skills as well as other relevant interventions such as harm reduction, medication, and cognitive-behavioral approaches in order to assist people in achieving and maintaining therapeutic goals.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
SWRK 5785 - Organizational & Program Planning
3 Credits
In this course, students are introduced to the basic conceptual and methodological principles and skills necessary for planning practice in human service organizations. Students examine the role of strategic and operational planning in charting the future of a well-run, human service organization. They acquire an appreciation for and critical perspective on the interconnectedness of organization and environment, anticipating trends, considering social change, needs and social problems, and planning for resource utilization, programmatic response and assessing program impact. Particular attention is given to the essential elements of designing a response to be used in requests for proposals and grant applications.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: MPH-Health Management & Policy, MPH-Public Health Practice, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5786 - Death, Dying, & Grief: Professional Practice & Self-Awareness
3 Credits
This course explores the physical, psychological, spiritual, emotional, and sociocultural concerns typically encountered by clients and families confronted with dying, death, and grief. Course content will include personal death awareness, the integration of theoretical perspectives, and evidence-based practice interventions. Throughout this course, students will be encouraged to examine their own values and attitudes concerning issues related to death and grief and how these will impact their professional practice.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5797 - Financial Capability and Asset Building Practice
3 Credits
The course examines the role of social work within financial capability practice. This course focuses on financial literacy, financial education initiatives, and financial empowerment practices for individuals and families across the life cycle and communities. Social policy and policy change efforts related to these areas are also examined. Special attention is given to oppressed populations and communities experiencing poverty and near-poverty.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5798 - Introduction to Non-Profit Organization Management
3 Credits
This course examines the roles of the nonprofit sector and nonprofit organizations in contemporary society. The role of nonprofit organizations as vehicles for citizen participation and as commercial enterprises will be highlighted. The challenges facing nonprofit organizations in contemporary society will also be analyzed.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5808 - Social Work, Education, & Individuals with Exceptionality
3 Credits
This course provides the student with a working knowledge of the learning, psychological, cognitive and social characteristics of youth and children with exceptionality. Current methods of practice within the educational setting, interventions, strategies, and modifications for use within the general education classroom are examined.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
SWRK 5819 - Foundation Integrative Practice Seminar
1 Credit (Repeatable for credit)
This seminar is designed to provide opportunities for students to integrate foundation and a generalist perspective of social work theories, methods, values, and ethics with practicum experiences. Additionally the seminar will focus on maximizing learning experiences in the student’s practicum and in gaining knowledge of other target populations and social service settings. Students will gain skills in peer consultation and support, case presentation, researching for practice-based literature, and in approaching various practicum challenges.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5841*; SWRK 5821*; ((SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751* with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S))
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
SWRK 5820 - Integrative Practice Seminar
1 Credit
This seminar provides an opportunity for students in the first Concentration Practicum SWRK-5822 Practicum II, to integrate theoretical constructs and information gained in the classroom with the application of social work practice. The seminars are designed to provide additional integration of coursework and daily practice; enhance a student's knowledge and skill base through peer sharing; and provide a supportive opportunity for students to debrief on practice challenges.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5822* with a grade of S or higher, SWRK 5832* with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5842* with a grade of S or higher); (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Foundation Integrative with a minimum score of S)
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
SWRK 5821 - MSW/ABA Foundation Practicum
2 Credits
Must be taken within the first 30 hours of enrollment in the program. The foundation practicum requires students to have a generalist perspective social work experience with micro, mezzo, and macro activities. This practicum consists of 240 hours in the field. *Must take in first 15 hours*
Prerequisite(s): ((SWRK 5702* with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5725* with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751* with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S))
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5819
SWRK 5822 - Applied Behavior Analysis Practicum I
2 Credits
Students will learn to integrate knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of concentration. This practicum consists of 240 hours in the field.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Foundation Integrative with a minimum score of S); SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5820
SWRK 5823 - Applied Behavior Analysis Practicum II
2 Credits
Students will continue to build on their knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of concentration. This practicum consists of 240 hours in the field.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5820 with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5822 with a grade of S or higher
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5830
SWRK 5824 - Applied Behavior Analysis Practicum III
2 Credits
Students will continue to build on their knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of concentration. This practicum consists of 240 hours in the field.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5823 with a grade of S or higher; SWRK 5830 with a grade of S or higher
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5840
SWRK 5830 - ABA Integrative Practice Seminar II
1 Credit
This is the second part of a three-part graduate level course (three seminars) that will ensure that students are able to successfully complete all three ABA practica. Students will understand and apply professional and ethical behavior analysis service in clinical contexts by conducting behavioral interventions, designing, implementing and monitoring behavior change programs and, reviewing empirical literature pertinent to those change efforts.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5820 with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5822 with a grade of S or higher
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5823
SWRK 5832 - Community & Organization Practicum I
2 Credits
Students will learn to integrate knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of concentration. This practicum consists of 300 hours in the field.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Foundation Integrative with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher or SLU MSW Foundation Practicum with a minimum score of S)
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5820
SWRK 5833 - Community & Organization Practicum II
3 Credits
Students will continue to build on their knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of concentration. This practicum consists of 300 hours in the field.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5820 with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5832 with a grade of S or higher
SWRK 5840 - ABA Integrative Practice Seminar III
1 Credit
This is the third part of a three-part graduate level course (three seminars) that will ensure that students are able to successfully complete all three ABA practica. Students will understand and apply professional and ethical behavior analysis service in clinical contexts by conducting behavioral interventions, designing, implementing and monitoring behavior change programs and, reviewing empirical literature pertinent to those change efforts.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5830 with a grade of S or higher; SWRK 5823 with a grade of S or higher
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5824
SWRK 5841 - Master of Social Work Foundation Practicum
2 Credits
Must be taken within the first 30 hours of enrollment in the program. The foundation practicum requires students to have a generalist perspective social work experience with micro, mezzo, and macro activities. This practicum consists of 300 hours in the field. ?Prerequisites: Foundation courses. SWRK students in the ABA concentration should register for SWRK 5821. * Must take in first 15 hours *
Prerequisite(s): ((SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S))
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5819
SWRK 5842 - Clinical Practicum I
2 Credits
Clinical students will learn to integrate knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of concentration. This practicum consists of 300 hours in the field.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Foundation Integrative with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher or SLU MSW Foundation Practicum with a minimum score of S)
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5820
SWRK 5843 - Clinical Practicum II
3 Credits
Students will continue to build on their knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of concentration. This practicum consists of 300 hours in the field.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5842 with a grade of S or higher; SWRK 5820 with a grade of C or higher
SWRK 5844 - Elective Practicum IV
3 Credits
This elective provides additional practicum experience in an area of special interest to the student.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Foundation Integrative with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher or SLU MSW Foundation Practicum with a minimum score of S)
SWRK 5931 - Professional Practice Institute
3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Human Behavior with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Social Policy with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Individuals with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLU MSW Practice Communities with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5980 - Independent Study
1-3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
This offers students the opportunity for individual and independent study of a particular area related to social work theory or practice. Prior approvals by the student's academic advisor, Director of the MSW Program, and faculty member directing and evaluating the study are required.
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 6000 - Foundations of Theory Development in Social Work
3 Credits
This required course is designed to equip doctoral students with the knowledge and skills to engage in effective theory development and synthesis. The course considers some of the major historical currents in the philosophy of science that undergirds contemporary scientific research and accentuates emerging ideas in science that cross-cut traditional boundaries. The course culminates in a theoretical synthesis paper suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal. (Offered every fall)
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students in the programs.
SWRK 6010 - Principles of Statistics & Data Analysis
3 Credits
This required course serves to introduce doctoral students to the quantitative skills, methods, and techniques necessary for scientific analysis, particularly in the social and behavioral sciences. Students will learn the vocabulary associated with scientific thinking and research, data collection, data analysis, data presentation, and interpretation and discussion of analytical results. Students will also be introduced to STATA, the statistical software program that will be used in subsequent analytical courses. This introduction will include instruction on data entry, data manipulation, and conducting basic data analysis and interpretation of results. (Offered every fall)
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students in the programs.
SWRK 6020 - Research Design & Measurement
3 Credits
This course is designed to equip social work PhD students with the knowledge and skills to engage in effective descriptive, explanatory, and intervention research. The course accentuates the application of optimal methodologies and measurement techniques vis-a-vis a particular research question or study objectives. It focuses on conceptualizing and designing a research project culminating in a research proposal. (Offered every spring.)
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students in the programs.
SWRK 6030 - Multivariate Data Analysis
3 Credits
This required course is the second of two required courses on quantitative analyses for doctoral students at the School of Social Work. The course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to apply linear regression to empirical social work research. In the course students will learn the concepts of regression, simple regression, multivariate regression, regression diagnostics, and the goodness of fit. The course also involves categorical predictors, transformation of variables, collinearity, variable selection, and generalized linear models. A list of topics is provided in the course schedule. (Offered every Spring)
SWRK 6040 - Research Area Synthesis
3 Credits
The purpose of the research area synthesis (RAS) is for the student to demonstrate sufficient command of an area of research and advance a body of knowledge. This is achieved by independently completing an extended review paper (e.g., 50-75 double spaced pages) critically appraises and synthesizes the research literature on a particular topic. The result of this document shall include an assessment of major theories or perspectives, key findings, research design assets and limitations, and measurement issues, and development of a future research agenda. Limited to Ph.D. program in social work students who are in their final semester of coursework.
SWRK 6930 - Special Topics
1-4 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
SWRK 6980 - Independent Study
1-3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
The course provides students with an opportunity to develop their own research project that will be completed independently under their own initiative. The student will receive guidance and support of the assigned faculty member. The course requires prior approval of the faculty member and completion of a contract of agreement on products to be delivered and method of evaluating course/project outcomes.
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students in the programs.
SWRK 6990 - Dissertation Research
0-12 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
The ability to extend the knowledge base in Social Work is a qualification distinctive to the doctoral degree. A candidate for this most advanced, earned degree must present substantial evidence of this ability by presenting and defending a piece of original and independent research on a topic of importance that has been previously unresolved within the major field. This is perhaps the most valuable stage in doctoral training.
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students in the programs.