Department of Social Work

Undergraduate Social Work Minor - Course Descriptions 

SWRK 220 (3-3-0) Introduction to Human Services
This course introduces the theoretical concepts, policies, programs, roles, goals, and historical development of human services. The course examines issues, causes, and solutions to human service problems within the fields of social work, criminal justice, psychology, and sociology, with emphasis on human relationship skills fundamental to social work.

 SWRK 230 (3-3-0) Introduction to Social Work
A study of the historical development of social welfare, social work and various social services. The course focuses on the nature, causes, and extent of major social problems, and provides case examples of how people are affected by such problems. Emphasis is placed on various counseling techniques, analysis of social policy issues, and the roles, functions, and responsibilities of the social work domain.

 SWRK 330 (3-3-0) Human Behavior and the Social Environment
This course provides an understanding of the developmental stages of the individual and the relationship between human growth, development and the environment. Knowledge and understanding of biological, psychological and social system relationships, cultural norms, and the significance of interaction with the family, group and the community are stressed.  Prerequisite: SWRK 230.

SWRK 340 (3-3-0) Social Welfare Policy and Services
This course focuses on the historical, philosophical and political development of the social welfare system in the United States, including current policies and programs. The course will provide an examination of policies, processes and issues associated with decision-making and services within the welfare sector. Prerequisite: SWRK 230.

SWRK 400 (3-3-0) Interviewing Skills
An introduction to the interviewing process as a basic tool in social work practice, with emphasis on understanding and using a variety of techniques, methods, and skills in conducting social work interviews, understanding one’s self as the interviewer, understanding attitudes in the interview process, and understanding the implications of cultural backgrounds.

SWRK 410 (3-3-0) Social Work Practice
A course designed to provide an analysis of the theoretical, methodological and practical knowledge necessary for entry-level practice in social work. Issues and topics covered include interviewing skills, group work, community practice, assessment, cross-cultural social work, contemporary theories of counseling and working with systems. Prerequisites: SWRK 230, SWRK 330, SWRK 340, seniors minoring in social work or consent from the instructor.

SWRK 425 (3-3-0) Social Work with Families
A course incorporating the study and analysis of problems and concerns faced by social workers in working effectively with families, including the integration of social work policy, human behavior and social work practice. Issues covered include functions and changes in the family and the theoretical framework of family systems theory, systems theory, and the ecological treatment and modalities. Prerequisites: SWRK 230 or consent from the instructor.

SWRK 450 (3-1-6) Field Practicum
A seminar course and supervised field experience in selected human service agencies. Students apply social work principles, knowledge and techniques to various areas of social services with supervision and evaluation under the direction of the instructor and various agency field instructors in the community. Prerequisites: SWRK 230, SWRK 330, SWRK 340, SWRK 410, senior standing and consent from the instructor.