Online Bachelor of Social Work Courses

An introduction to social work as a profession, its historical development, and current practice settings. The course focuses on the history, philosophy, and structure of social movements, social policy, and social services in the United States. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking as it applies to professional values and ethics, and areas of practice. This course is required for Social Work majors but is also applicable for students from related fields who want to explore the history and structure of social services and social work.

An exploration of the historical development of social welfare policies, the relationship of policy to social welfare programs, the delivery of social support services needed to fulfill basic human needs, and social work values.

Designed to introduce students to theoretical and practical knowledge that will become a foundation for the entry-level professional. Topics covered include social work values, assessment, confidentiality, and contemporary theories in social work as they relate to practice with client systems. Basic psychopathology is reviewed in relation to current methods used in treatment. Students will gain an understanding of the theories behind various methods and techniques and continue to build upon them as lifelong learning takes place. In addition, skill-building sessions are included as a key component of the course in order for students to experience the learning process from both the knowledge and practice levels. PREREQUISITE: SW 104/104SL OR PY 101, OR PERMISSION FROM THE DEPARTMENT CHAIR.

An introduction to theories of human behavior related to how personality, environment, and culture interact with one another to shape the individual. The life cycle of individuals is reviewed in the context of families, groups, and larger social systems including the cultural, social, and physical environment. This knowledge is useful to social workers and other practitioners in dealing with problem situations, whether created by individuals or by environmental factors. PREREQUISITES: SW 104/104 SL, PY 101, OR PERMISSION FROM THE DEPARTMENT CHAIR.

This course explores human behavior in groups, organizations, and communities to achieve a theoretical, conceptual, and practical understanding of the workings of the macro-social environment. An ecosystems perspective is combined with sociology and group psychology theories that promote a working knowledge of the operation and interrelatedness of macro systems and human behavior. Primary consideration is given to concepts of empowerment, diversity, populations-at-risk, and the promotion of social and economic justice at the local, national, and global levels.

An introduction to an intersectional approach to ethnic and cultural groups. In the course, students will learn to apply and communicate an understanding of the importance of diversity and difference in shaping life experiences relevant to all levels of Social Work practice. Using a paradigm that recognizes the role of oppression and discrimination, students will develop selfawareness and self-regulation skills to manage the influence of personal biases and values in working with diverse clients and constituencies.

An exploration of the basic knowledge, values, and skills of the profession of social work. The student becomes familiar with theoretical knowledge, develops basic interviewing skills, and utilizes value clarification to understand what is involved in effective, ethical social work practice and case management in a diverse society. (Micro practice course.) May be taken by non-Social Work majors with permission of the instructor. PREREQUISITES: SW 104

The historical, economic, social, and political facets of policies are examined from the social work practitioner’s perspective. Policies as society’s response to human social problems will be analyzed and discussed for their immediate and long-range implications. Special attention will be given to governmental entities and non-profit organizations that address social problems through service provisions. Each student will analyze in-depth one social welfare policy. PREREQUISITE: SW 201 OR PERMISSION FROM DEPARTMENT CHAIR.

An enhancement of the application of knowledge and skills of generalist social work practice designed to enhance the skills introduced in SW 302. Discussion and simulation of assessment, intervention, and practice with families are emphasized. (Mezzo practice course). PREREQUISITES: SW 302 OR PERMISSION FROM THE DEPARTMENT CHAIR.

An enhancement of the application of knowledge and skill of generalist social work practice and is designed to build upon SW 302. Discussion and simulation of practice with educational, support, task, and therapeutic groups are emphasized. PREREQUISITES: SW 302 OR PERMISSION FROM THE DEPARTMENT CHAIR.

This course focuses on student development of values, skills, and knowledge as professional, ethical leaders in Social Work in preparation for field placement. Students will enhance skills in oral and written communication, time management, leadership, boundaries, networking, working with diverse populations, interviewing, negotiation, and articulation of professional values. They will explore ethics relevant to practice with a focus on engaging with diversity and advancing human rights and social, economic and environmental justice as professionals. Students will also learn about local organizations and agencies that exemplify Social Work’s social justice mission as they prepare to enter field placement internship.

This is the first in a sequence of research methods courses for students in the BSW Program. This course aims to familiarize students with the most common research methods used in social and behavioral sciences, with an emphasis on critical thinking and becoming informed consumers of research. This course is designed to provide students in the social sciences with an opportunity to construct and present a proposal for an original research project. Throughout the course students will study quantitative, qualitative, and experimental research methods common to the various social sciences. Students will have opportunities, throughout the course, to employ these various research methods through in-class and homework assignments. By participating in this course, students will become familiar with basic research methods to advance their understanding of their discipline and of social sciences. Students will learn how to critically evaluate research methods and research claims to become more informed consumers and producers of social science research. It is not expected that upon completion of the course that you will have acquired all the skills necessary to design and conduct your own research. Becoming a competent researcher requires in-depth course work in various aspects of research methodology as well as considerable “hands-on” experience. This course is intended to serve as a foundation for more advanced research methodology courses such as SW 422 Research Methods II.

This is a supervised field placement in a selected human service agency that allows the student to integrate theory with micro, mezzo, and macro practice. Only Social Work majors who have been fully admitted to the Social Work program may register for this course. The field placement sequence should be the final course sequence. COREQUISITE: SW 405.

A seminar designed to bring students together in a group setting to help integrate the field experience with practice skills and theory. Concurrent enrollment in SW 402. Only Social Work majors who have been fully admitted to the Social Work program may register for this course. The field placement sequence should be the final sequence that students take. COREQUISITE: SW 402.

This is the second in a two-part sequenced field placement series. The field placement is designed to develop students’ advanced skills and increase competence in utilizing skills acquired in SW 405. Concurrent enrollment in SW 407 is required. Only social work majors who have been fully admitted to the social work program may register for this course. The field placement sequence should be the final sequence that students take. COREQUISITE: SW 407.

A seminar designed to bring students together in a group setting to help integrate the field experience with practice skills and theory. Concurrent enrollment in SW 402. Only Social Work majors who have been fully admitted to the Social Work program may register for this course. The field placement sequence should be the final sequence that students take. COREQUISITE: SW 402.

A survey of the general field of psychology including the fundamental areas of learning, sensation perception, cognition,
behavior, motivation, personality, adjustment, and the biological basis of behavior. 3 credits

A general survey of sociological concepts aimed at a basic understanding of modern society and its complexities. Culture, society, and individuals are studied within the framework of social institutions. The emphasis is on the interaction between the individual and society. 3 credits

A study of the ideas and tools of practical statistics using data in context. Methods and strategies for exploring data graphically and quantitatively are examined, as well as statistical reasoning and the tools of inference that go beyond the data to draw conclusions about a wider population, with attention paid to the uncertainty of these conclusions. Students will conduct standard one and two sample statistical analyses. 3 credits
PREREQUISITE: SKQ 101 AND DEMONSTRATED READINESS FOR MATHEMATICS BY PLACEMENT OR COMPLETION OF MAT 100.

This course is only offered on campus.

An overview of the principles and applications of biological knowledge as they relate to health, medical, agricultural, and ecological issues in contemporary society. The process and methods of scientific inquiry, its resulting technologies, our understanding of the natural world, and the impact of our knowledge and technologies on our society and environment are examined. An underlying theme is a humankind, human form and function, and humankind’s relationship to the natural world. Three hours of lecture and one two-hour lab per week. Open to all non-biology majors.

Biological Basis presents an in-depth focus on neuroanatomy, the nervous system, and other biological processes relevant to human thought and behavior. Students will learn the structure and function of the nervous and endocrine systems, with a specific focus on how biological systems influence psychological functions and vice versa. Students will become familiar with the terminology and research methods of both biology and psychology and will be introduced to exciting interdisciplinary neuroscience fields.

Prerequisite: PY 101 with a grade of C- or higher or permission of the department chair. Fulfills Social/Behavioral or Natural Sciences LAI requirement when taken with BIO-231.
Additional information: This is an online course open only to online students, same as PY 230.

Designed to introduce students to theoretical and practical knowledge that will become a foundation for the entry-level professional. Topics covered include social work values, assessment, confidentiality, and contemporary theories in social work as they relate to practice with client systems. Basic psychopathology is reviewed in relation to current methods used in treatment. Students will gain an understanding of the theories behind various methods and techniques and continue to build upon them as lifelong learning takes place. In addition, skill-building sessions are included as a key component of the course in order for students to experience the learning process from both the knowledge and practice levels. PREREQUISITE: SW 104/104SL OR PY 101, OR PERMISSION FROM THE DEPARTMENT CHAIR.

An introduction to the basic principles of and various approaches toward counseling. Emphasis on supervised role-playing and on how to begin to become therapeutically effective.

Prerequisite: This course has a prerequisite of PY 101. PY 101 must be completed prior to taking this course.

This course introduces the student to the field of psychological trauma. The course will be composed of lectures, discussions, guest speakers and videos. It will provide the student with an understanding of the various types of traumas and treatment, trauma theory, the impact of trauma on the mind, body and spirit, and the historical development of trauma as a clinical entity. Students will gain an appreciation of the depth of trauma and trauma rejections in the fields of social work and psychology. PREREQUISITES: SW 104 OR PY 285.

An introduction to the various types of crisis situations practitioners may encounter. In addition, the course will offer various techniques and provide presentations on a variety of components needed to assist the student in understanding the concepts of crisis intervention and management. Crisis events can occur in a variety of ways and, as practitioners, how we deal with these events can make the difference between healing and hindrance. Emphasis will be upon a general understanding of the implications of techniques to modify, manage, and cope with crisis situations.

This course is designed to familiarize students with child abuse in its multiple forms. Students will have the opportunity to learn the many signs and symptoms of child maltreatment that manifest in both childhood and adulthood and will investigate
poisonous pedagogy, open/closed family systems, and the impact of shame on lives. Students will have an opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the types of child abuse as well as the signs and behaviors associated with each type. PREREQUISITES: PY 122 AND PY 285 OR SW 302

A consideration of the current state of social science knowledge of the grief and loss, death and dying experience of individuals and families throughout the lifespan. Students explore the individual and family dynamics of death, loss, grief and
bereavement. Death rituals and practices of various belief systems are discussed as well as the belief systems and cultural practices of students. Skills and techniques and techniques for coping and healing are also reviewed. PREREQUISITE: PY 101 or PY 122

An overview of the knowledge and skills needed to understand the various forms of abuse, violence and harm perpetrated by a current or former intimate partner including, married, same-sex, or unmarried couples, or ex-partners. Particularly examines
the research and literature on intimate partner violence to develop competencies in prevention, intervention and resources, and the implications for programs and policies to assist the victim and the abuser. PREREQUISITE: PY 285 or SW 302

This course examines health and social work, social work roles in a variety of settings, and the understanding of healthcare issues specific to special populations. An intersectionality lens is used to promote a greater understanding of an individual’s multiple statuses of identity including race, ethnicity, nationality, class, education, religion, gender, sexuality, and the values and ethical issues in a healthcare environment. The course underscores the importance of understanding access, ethics, equality, empowerment, prevention, outcomes, and quality of life.

This course is designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for effective health care social work practice with patients and families. Advocating for and ensuring patients and families have access to the necessary resources, as well as addressing emotional and psychosocial needs are emphasized. The technological, social, political, ethical, and financial factors affecting patient care are explored. Case studies and exercises emphasize the importance of practicing social workers attentiveness to both patient and organizational needs. Emerging trends in health care policy and delivery are addressed as well as social work practice across the continuum of care. PREREQUISITE: SW 302

A consideration of the current state of social science knowledge of the grief and loss, death and dying experience of individuals and families throughout the lifespan. Students explore the individual and family dynamics of death, loss, grief and
bereavement. Death rituals and practices of various belief systems are discussed as well as the belief systems and cultural practices of students. Skills and techniques and techniques for coping and healing are also reviewed. PREREQUISITE: PY 101 or PY 122

This course provides students with a working knowledge of medical terminology by exploring the root words, suffixes and prefixes of the vocabulary used in healthcare settings. Students review the nervous, skeletal, cardiovascular, muscle and other major systems of the human body, and they discuss terms related to physiology, anatomy, and pathological conditions.

This course explores human behavior in groups, organizations, and communities to achieve a theoretical, conceptual, and practical understanding of the workings of the macro-social environment. An ecosystems perspective is combined with sociology and group psychology theories that promote a working knowledge of the operation and interrelatedness of macro systems and human behavior. Primary consideration is given to concepts of empowerment, diversity, populations-at-risk, and the promotion of social and economic justice at the local, national, and global levels.

This course is designed to assist students in engaging in critical examination of the interplay of race, class, and crime in the United States. Attention will be given to historical, sociological, economic, and political reasons that underlie why Black Americans and other racial minorities are treated unequally and represented disproportionately in the criminal justice system. This course highlights obstacles to racial justice including criminalization of behaviors along racial and class lines.

An interdisciplinary seminar focusing on the victims of crimes, with an emphasis on understanding victims’ responses, restorative justice programs, and services for victims of crime.

This undergraduate course examines mental health issues and how they interact within the United States criminal justice system. Students will learn how certain diagnoses are more likely to lead to police intervention, as well as how today’s prisons have become modern-day asylums. Students will also consider how insanity and psychosis differ, the limitations of assessing for dangerousness, and how competency to stand trial is determined. Special attention will be paid to learning practical skills in analyzing data, writing evidence-based reports, understanding DSM-5 diagnoses, and considering federal and state laws that impact clinical practice in the criminal justice system.

This course examines the history, structure, and functions of corrections, and the legal and philosophical basis for the punishment of criminal offenders, including the role of corrections as one of the three major components of the criminal justice system. The course will also discuss repercussions of the current status of the correctional system and its relationship with society.

An analysis of the history of the control and prevention of juvenile delinquency. The course includes an overview of the nature and extent of juvenile delinquency, theories about delinquency, an examination of the justice system, and procedures for
juveniles in this system.