Social Work (SWRK)

SWRK 1000 - Introduction to Social Work

Credit(s): 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 Envrnmnt

Credit(s): 3 Credits

This course is designed to introduce the student to theories, bodies of knowledge, and perspectives which provide critical insight into the behavior of individuals and the dynamics of social systems, and the person in environment. The systems approach, symbolic interaction/social constructionism, and life cycle theory serve as the major theoretical perspectives employed to analyze interaction in the system levels through time. The system levels identified as having the greatest salience are the individual, family, group, organization and community. The critical perspective is used to integrate theories and knowledge within the value and social justice orientation of social work.

Attributes: UUC:Social & Behavioral Sci

SWRK 3100 - Social Policy for Social Justice

Credit(s): 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 student 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

Credit(s): 3 Credits (Repeatable up to 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. 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

Credit(s): 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 and 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

Credit(s): 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.

Prerequisite(s): SWRK 3300^*

^* Concurrent enrollment allowed.

Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Junior or Senior.

SWRK 3400 - Social Work Practice with Families

Credit(s): 3 Credits

Building upon the skills developed in SWRK 3300: Social Work Practice with Individuals, the focus of SWRK 3400: Social Work Practice with Families will be to expand those skills into work with families. Specific theories and interventions associated with families and will be introduced. 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.

Prerequisite(s): Minimum Earned Credits of 60

SWRK 3440 - Social Work Practice with Families

Credit(s): 3 Credits

SWRK 3500 - Social Work Practice with Organizations & Communities

Credit(s): 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 of special concern 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

Credit(s): 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 60

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Social Work.

SWRK 3700 - Research Methods for a Diverse Society

Credit(s): 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). We 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

Credit(s): 5 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

Students 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.

SWRK 4150 - Integrative Practice Seminar I

Credit(s): 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.

SWRK 4200 - Social Work Practicum II

Credit(s): 5 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

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.

SWRK 4250 - Integrative Practice Seminar II

Credit(s): 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.

SWRK 5001 - Supervision and Organizational Behavior Management

Credit(s): 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)

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Applied Behavioral Analysis.

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5002 - Philosophy of Behavioral Science

Credit(s): 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. (Offered in Fall)

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Applied Behavioral Analysis.

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5320 - Sentencing Mitigation

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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

SWRK 5702 - Social Policy

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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; 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 5706 - Antiracism and Social Work Practice

Credit(s): 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.

SWRK 5707 - Policy Practice for Social Justice

Credit(s): 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; 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

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

Credit(s): 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.

SWRK 5714 - Interprofessional Perspectives in Geriatric Care

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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; 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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5720 - School Social Work

Credit(s): 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; 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 5721 - Community Theory & Practice

Credit(s): 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; 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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5725 - Human Behavior & the Social Environment

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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; 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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5736 - Advanced Clinical Practice with Families and Groups

Credit(s): 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.

SWRK 5742 - Evidence Based Practices in Community Mental Health

Credit(s): 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^*

^* Concurrent enrollment allowed.

Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5744 - Substance Use Disorder Interventions

Credit(s): 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; 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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5745 - Health & Mental Health Interventions with Older Adults

Credit(s): 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; 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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5746 - Principles & Concepts in Applied Behavior Analysis

Credit(s): 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. Cross-listed with ABA 5746.

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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5747 - Behavioral Assessment

Credit(s): 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) Cross-listed with ABA 5747.

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

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

Credit(s): 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. Cross-listed with ABA 5748.

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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5749 - Ethics in Behavior Analysis

Credit(s): 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; 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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5750 - Social Work Practice with Individuals, Families, & Groups

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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 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

Credit(s): 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 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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5762 - Diagnosis & Assessment in Clinical Practice

Credit(s): 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 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

Attributes: MPH-Health Management & Policy, Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5771 - Intimate Partner Violence

Credit(s): 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; 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 5772 - Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Social Work Practice

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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; 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 5762^*

^* Concurrent enrollment allowed.

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5774 - Measurement & Experimental Design

Credit(s): 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; 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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5784 - Research and Evaluation in Social Work Practice

Credit(s): 3 Credits

Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5787 with a grade of C or higher

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5785 - Organizational & Program Planning

Credit(s): 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; 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

Attributes: MPH-Health Management & Policy, MPH-Public Health Practice, Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5786 - Death, Dying, & Grief: Professional Practice & Self-Awareness

Credit(s): 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; 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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5797 - Financial Capability and Asset Building Practice

Credit(s): 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; 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

Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5798 - Introduction to Non-Profit Organization Management

Credit(s): 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; 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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5799 - Social Entrepreneurship

Credit(s): 3 Credits

This course introduces students to the concept and practice of social entrepreneurship. It reviews the historic and contemporary approaches to and models of social entrepreneurship. It explores the range of issues and challenges associated with social entrepreneurship. Particular attention will be given to microenterprise, venture philanthropy, social venture capitalism, social return on investment and business planning for social enterprises.

Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725, SWRK 5702, SWRK 5750, and SWRK 5751); (SWRK 5721 or SWRK 5785)

Attributes: MPH-Maternal & Child Health, Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5819 - Foundation Integrative Practice Seminar

Credit(s): 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 5750, SWRK 5702^*, SWRK 5725^*, and SWRK 5751^*); (SWRK 5841^* or SWRK 5821^*)

^* Concurrent enrollment allowed.

Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students in the School of Social Work college.

SWRK 5820 - Integrative Practice Seminar

Credit(s): 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

^* Concurrent enrollment allowed.

Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students in the School of Social Work college.

SWRK 5821 - MSW/ABA Foundation Practicum

Credit(s): 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 18 hours.

Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702^*, SWRK 5725^*, SWRK 5751^*, and SWRK 5750

^* Concurrent enrollment allowed.

Corequisite(s): SWRK 5819

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Applied Behavioral Analysis.

SWRK 5822 - Applied Behavior Analysis Practicum I

Credit(s): 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; SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher

Corequisite(s): SWRK 5820

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Applied Behavioral Analysis.

SWRK 5823 - Applied Behavior Analysis Practicum II

Credit(s): 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

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Applied Behavioral Analysis.

SWRK 5824 - Applied Behavior Analysis Practicum III

Credit(s): 2 Credits

Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5823 with a grade of S or higher; SWRK 5830 with a grade of S or higher

Corequisite(s): SWRK 5840

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Applied Behavioral Analysis.

SWRK 5830 - ABA Integrative Practice Seminar II

Credit(s): 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

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Applied Behavioral Analysis.

SWRK 5832 - Community & Organization Practicum I

Credit(s): 2 Credits

Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5819 with a grade of B or higher; SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher

Corequisite(s): SWRK 5820

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Community Organization.

SWRK 5833 - Community & Organization Practicum II

Credit(s): 3 Credits

Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5820 with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5832 with a grade of S or higher

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Community Organization.

SWRK 5840 - ABA Integrative Practice Seminar III

Credit(s): 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

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Applied Behavioral Analysis.

SWRK 5841 - Master of Social Work Foundation Practicum

Credit(s): 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^*, SWRK 5725^*, SWRK 5750, and SWRK 5751^*

^* Concurrent enrollment allowed.

Corequisite(s): SWRK 5819

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Clinical or Community Organization.

Enrollment limited to students in the School of Social Work college.

SWRK 5842 - Clinical Practicum I

Credit(s): 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; SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher

Corequisite(s): SWRK 5820

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Clinical.

SWRK 5843 - Clinical Practicum II

Credit(s): 3 Credits

Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5842 with a grade of S or higher; SWRK 5820 with a grade of C or higher

Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a concentration in Clinical.

SWRK 5844 - Elective Practicum IV

Credit(s): 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; SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher

SWRK 5931 - Professional Practice Institute

Credit(s): 3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

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

Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective

SWRK 5980 - Independent Study

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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

Credit(s): 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)

Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students in the PhD Social Work program.

SWRK 6040 - Research Area Synthesis

Credit(s): 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.

Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students in the PhD Social Work program.

SWRK 6930 - Special Topics

Credit(s): 1-4 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

SWRK 6980 - Independent Study

Credit(s): 1-3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)

Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students in the programs.

SWRK 6990 - Dissertation Research

Credit(s): 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.