Social Work

• SWKers in Action
• Course Descriptions
• Curriculum Policy Statement
• Faculty and Staff
• Social Work Club
• Admittance Process
• Field Practicum
• Student Handbook
• Advisory Committee
• Accreditation Information
• History & Social Science Division

Course Descriptions

Total Social Work Credits ....................................................45 



Course Descriptions

SWK 111 Introduction to Social Work
An introduction to the history of social work as a profession from its Judeo-
Christian origins to current trends and influences. An overview of professional
social work education including an introduction to social work values and
ethics, generalist practice theory, social welfare policy, populations at-risk,
social work roles and various practice settings.

SWK 221 Human Behavior in the Social Environment I
The study of theories and knowledge of human behavior and bio-psycho-social-spiritual
development from birth to young adulthood. Application of social systems theory
in the analysis of the interactions between human behavior and social environmental
structures. Attention is given to the role of culture, race, ethnicity, social
class, gender and sexual orientation in human development and behavior. Prerequisites: PSY 111, SOC 111, SWK 111, and BIO 151, or BIO 241, or BIO 242

SWK 222 Human Behavior in the Social Environment II
The study of theories and knowledge of human behavior and bio-psycho-social-spiritual development from middle to late adulthood. Application of social systems theory in the analysis of the interactions between human behavior and social environmental structures. Attention is given to the role of culture, ethnicity, social class, race, gender and sexual orientation in human development and behavior. Prerequisite: SWK 211

SWK 311 Social Policy
A survey and analysis of the political, social, cultural and economic forces that
influence the development of welfare policies in the United States. The impact
of these policies on various populations at risk (including, but not limited to
those distinguished by age, ethnicity, culture, class, religion, sexual orientation, and physical or mental ability) is examined. Students develop and articulate their own perspectives on social welfare and the implications for generalist social work practice. Prerequisites: SWK 111, SOC 243, SSC 211, ECN 231

SWK 331 Social Work Practice I: Individuals & Families
Direct practice skills essential for the generalist social worker: interviewing
and assessment skills, advocacy, case management, crisis intervention, ethical decision making and problem solving methods are applied to case situations. Students are introduced to the Generalist Intervention Model with considerations for practice wth diverse and vulnerable client populations. Prerequisites SWK 111, admission to the SWK Program

SWK 332 Social Work Practice II: Groups
Application of social work generalist practice skills in service delivery to groups. Study of the origins of group work as a social work intervention method, group dynamics and processes, and stages of group development. Students study techniques for the implementation of task groups and treatment groups, including methods of effective group work with diverse client populations. Prerequisites: SWK 331, admission to the SWK Program

SWK 333 Social Work Practice III: Communities & Organizations
Indirect practice and intervention skills essential for the generalist social
worker: community organization and development, social planning, social action and social administration. Focuses on the interplay between the individual and the macro environment and viewed from the perspective of the direct service provider seeking supportive resources for vulnerable or oppressed client populations. Prerequisites: SWK 332, admission to the SWK Program

SWK 417 Human Diversity (SOC 417)
Comparative study of ethnic and racial minorities. This course explores the history of majority-minority relationships, the current status of minorities, and subcultural differences. Students learn the importance of appreciating subcultural differences and the implications of those differences for multicultural practice settings. Prerequisites: SOC 111, SOC 243 

SWK 450 Field Practicum
Students are placed in a community agency (minimum of 400 hours) under the supervision of a professional social worker. Opportunities are provided to integrate the knowledge, values, and skills of generalist practice in the field setting with client systems that may include: individuals, families, small groups, organizations, and communities. Emphasis is on the enhancement and well being of diverse and vulnerable populations and working towards the amelioration of environmental conditions that affect people adversely. Prerequisites: Admission to the SWK Program, faculty approval, must have completed all required SWK courses, must be taken concurrently with SWK 451, must have senior standing.

SWK 451 Field Practicum Seminar
A seminar, held on campus, in which students may share practicum experiences, integrate theoretical knowledge, consider ethical and value issues, and practice mutual support and supervision. Emphasis is on the understanding of oneself in the helping role and developing cultural sensitivity in working with diverse individuals, families, groups, and communities. Prerequisites: Admission to the SWK Program, faculty approval, must have completed all required SWK courses, must be taken concurrently with SWK 450

SWK 453/454 Integrated Statistics/Research
Designed to equip students with basic statistical knowledge and research skills, this course focuses on applications of these skills and competencies within the helping professions. Attention will be given to helping students become more skilled consumers of empirical research literature. In addition to lectures on basic statistical and research concepts, students will work in research teams to apply this knowledge in the context of a comprehensive research project. The first semester will cover writing a research proposal, basic quantitative and qualitative research design, research ethics, and survey/protocol development. In the second semester, students will gather empirical data, conduct SPSS data analysis, and prepare written and oral research reports. Students will be encouraged to seek conference presentation and/or publication of their original work. Note: This 6-credit course must be taken in sequence during consecutive semesters. Prerequisites: MAT 110

SWK 462 Senior Seminar
This course serves as the capstone to the Social Work Program. Through initial engagement in the field, a proposed research/macro project (to be completed in their spring practicum), case scenarios, and presentations, students will demonstrate learning related to generalist Social Work practice. Additional focus will be on the integration of Christian faith and social work practice as well as preparation of students for continued professional development following graduation. Prerequisite: Admission to SWK Program, senior standing

SWK 480 Advanced Topics
An elective course on a selected topic related to social work generalist practice. May include current issues or trends, special populations or advanced practice skills. Prerequisite: Social Work Major, junior or senior standing

SWK 490 Independent Study
An elective course requiring student research and a written report on a specific area of interest related to social work practice. The topic is selected by the
student with final approval and supervision by social work faculty. Prerequisite:
Faculty Approval