MSASS - Courses Offered
School of Applied Social Science (SASS)
SASS 401, Field Education I, 2
SASS 402, Field Education II, 4
SASS 403, Field Education III, 4
SASS 404, Field Education IV, 4
SASS 495, Field Education Seminar, 1
This seminar prepares students for entry into field education. The course introduces students to a number of topics that are considered basic to beginning the social work field practicum.
SASS 500, Special Topics in Applied Social Sciences, 3
SASS 574, Legal Issues in Social Work, 3
This course surveys the legal system as it affects social work, either direct service practice or in the development of human service policies and programs. Students are exposed to the basic trial court procedures and have the opportunity to develop necessary skills to testify. A paper is required in which the student analyzes and integrates the legal and social work issues on a proposed topic of interest.
SASS 575, Travel and Study Seminar, 3
This course will acquaint the student with the socio-political factors which influenced the development of social welfare systems in a selected country and the impact of this system on the development and functioning of individuals, families, groups or communities. The role of the emerging social work profession in social charge will be explored via the social welfare system. Topics could focus on the health care, mental health, aging, child and/or educational systems and be oriented towards direct practice, management or community development.
Prerequisite: SASS 402
SASS 586, Ethical Issues in Social Work Practice, 3
The main focus of the seminar is to relate ethical principles to direct practice. Through lecture, discussion, group projects and case examples, students gain a deeper understanding of ethical issues related to confidentiality, justice, client autonomy, whistle blowing, right to life, and other areas of great importance to social work practice today.
SASS 588, Law of Nonprofit Organizations, 3
SASS 590, Field Practice, 1-12
SASS 594, Independent Study Abroad, 1-12
SASS 598, Individual Reading, 1-12
SASS 599, Occupational Social Work, 3
This course provides an overview of an emerging new area of social work practice--industrial social work. It examines the world of work, its organizational structures, and social welfare functions. It identifies the range of social work roles, and the opportunities and dilemmas in this field. The teaching methods combine lecture and discussion and the use of audio-visual aids.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SASS 608, Philosophy of Science & Theory Building, 3
This is a required foundation course. The nature of theory is examined. Inductive and deductive methods for knowledge building are reviewed. Course content draws from philosophy of science as well as empirical and phenomenological research.
SASS 609, Theories of Social Welfare & Social Justice, 3
This is a foundation course required for all students. Theories of social welfare and social justice are examined. Course content draws from moral philosophy, economics, political science, cultural anthropology, sociology, history, psychology, and social welfare theory and provides students with a broad orientation to the field of theoretical social welfare.
SASS 610, Social & Behavioral Science Approaches, 3
This required course provides a survey of behavioral and social science theories which support social work practice, social welfare programs and social policy. It includes an examination of material from systems theory, field theory, conflict theory, structural function and other theory.
SASS 613, Advanced Research Design, 3
This foundation course in research methods is required of all students. It is a prerequisite to the quantitative and qualitative courses. Research designs and methods relevant to social welfare planning, policy development, practice and administration are examined.
SASS 614, Qualitative Measurement & Analysis, 3
This course introduces the social scientific paradigms for qualitative research and then explores varying qualitative research strategies, methods of data collection and analysis, and standards for evaluation. Political and ethical issues raised by qualitative research also are considered. SASS 618 recommended.
Prerequisites: SASS 608, SASS 613
SASS 615, Social Statistics & Data Analysis, 3
This foundation course (or its equivalent) is required of all students. Content includes univariate, bivariate and inferential statistics, and the use of electronic data processing technology to manage and analyze data.
SASS 616, Multiple Regression & Analysis of Variance, 3
This course builds on SASS 615, and either it or its equivalent is required of all students. Content focuses on using analysis of variance and multiple regression.
SASS 617, Specialization Seminar, 3
This course focuses on problem definitions and research issues related to specialized populations, fields of service and practice roles. The issues selected as the focus are based on faculty and student interests.
Prerequisites: SASS 614 or SASS 618
SASS 618, Measurement Issues in Survey, Experimental and Quantitative Research, 3
This course covers the operationalization of social science concepts and development of methods for their measurement. Issues covered include index and scale construction, validity, reliability, generalizability theory, multi-dimensionality, questionnaire design, interviewing, and experimental control. Students are required to take either this course or SASS 614.
SASS 624, Models of Social Work Practice, 3
This is the first of two required courses for students specializing in direct practice. It critically analyzes major models of current practice, including the traditional, unitary and radical approaches. The course is designed to examine the development of practice theory, to develop a framework for the analysis of theory and to study the content, structure applications, and implications of the three models.
SASS 625, Social Work Practice Applications, 3
This is the second of two courses aimed at the analysis and development of models of direct practice. Student works on the construction of an approach to practice related to his or her interests.
Prerequisite: SASS 624
SASS 630, Seminar: Social Work Education, 3
The first of two courses preparing students for careers in academe. Examination of the structure and content of American higher education. Emphasis is placed on program design and curriculum and course development.
SASS 632, Research Project, 1-36
This course provides students with the opportunity to work with specific faculty engaged in research studies either on an individual or group basis.
SASS 637, Individual Reading, 1-36
This is an individual reading course permitting students to select areas of interest and pursue these interests with specific faculty. (This also is the course number to register for dissertation credits before passing the qualifying examination.)
SASS 642, Teaching Practicum, 1-6
Students interested in experiential learning within social work education can arrange a teaching assistantship within the M.S.S.A. curriculum.
SASS 646, International Social Welfare, 3
This elective course focuses on social welfare programs and services in selected industrialized countries, with particular attention given to comparison of income maintenance and social service programs. Frameworks for cross-national analysis are examined and various national programs are evaluated in the context of these frameworks.
SASS 694, Models of Service Delivery, 3
This course is required of all planning and policy development students. Content includes specific social science content relevant to social welfare planning.
Prerequisite: SASS 610
SASS 695, Welfare Policy & Planning Models, 3
This seminar focuses on the analysis of social welfare policy. Tools of policy analysis and frameworks for policy analysis are examined and critiqued. Policy alternatives are considered from an analytical and comparative perspective. Attention also is given to policy development and implementation with emphasis on program planning and evaluation.
Prerequisite: SASS 610
SASS 696, Seminar on Issues in Social Policy and/or Service Delivery, 3
This elective course covers issues in the development, design and implementation of social policy. It also may include examination of current issues in the planning, delivery and evaluation of services. The area of focus is based on student and faculty interest.
Prerequisite: SASS 695
SASS 701, Dissertation Ph.D., 1-36
This course is intended for students who have passed the qualifying examination and are actively working on their dissertation.
Problem, Policy, Program (SPPP)
SPPP 470, Social Policy, 3
This course provides basic perspectives on social policies related to poverty, health, aging, mental health, substance abuse, and discrimination. An analytical framework is used to systematically identify, define, and analyze social problems and policies. The course also introduces the student to social planning and service delivery.
SPPP 500, Special Topics in Social Work Policy, 3
This seminar course is intended for students who are interested in exploring advanced topics in social policy.
Prerequisite: SPPP 470
SPPP 502, Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Policy and Service Delivery, 3
This course explores selected current alcohol and other drug abuse (AODA) problems using a problem analysis framework. Emphasis is placed on current and past AODA problem definitions as they affect policy and program development. Conceptualization of the problems resulting from AODA, patterns of use and abuse, causation theories, and the role of national and local institutions are reviewed.
Prerequisite: SPPP 470
SPPP 510, Mental Health Policy & Service Delivery, 3
This course is designed to acquaint students preparing for careers as social workers in the mental health field with an understanding of mental health policy and service delivery at the federal, state, and local levels. Through readings, lectures, discussion and written assignments, the course will aid students in developing a macro-level perspective of mental health policies and programs.
Prerequisite: SPPP 470
SPPP 511, Issues in Health Policy and Service Delivery, 3
This course will provide knowledge for understanding health care policy issues and options. It will highlight the development of health care policy in the United States, the influence of health policy development, and the role of social work. Similarly, it is an examination of problems, policy, and program issues in the subsidy, financing, reorganization, and regulatory capacity of health policy. National, state, and local issues will be stressed. The course is directed toward students in the health concentration but also welcomes students from other areas of the School and the University.
Prerequisite: SPPP 470
SPPP 512, Legislative and Political Process, 3
This is an introduction to the legislative process. The course highlights administrative discretionary powers in implementing legislation and legislative intent. It identifies the critical points at which intervention may occur to alter final policy directives. "Public interest" and lobbying methodologies for influencing legislative flow are explored. The influence of the executive branch in determining legislative priorities is analyzed.
Prerequisite: SPPP 470
SPPP 513, Aging Policy and Service Delivery, 3
This course critically reviews current income, health, and social service policies for older Americans. It also investigates patterns and levels of care for the elderly. Trends and issues in policies and programs for seniors are analyzed in the context of the dimensions and differential characteristics of the aging population in the country. Some cross-national comparisons of services for the elderly are included in this analysis.
Prerequisite: SPPP 470
SPPP 520, Homelessness, 3
This course provides an understanding of homelessness and its incidence and prevalence, its origins, both historical and social, its consequences, and policy-based strategies for its prevention. The course investigates the impact of homelessness on single individuals, families with children, minorities, and vulnerable populations such as the mentally ill and alcoholics. Students examine a range of professional and community-based responses to the problem.
Prerequisite: SPPP 470
SPPP 525, AIDS Seminar, 3
This course acquaints students with policy and service delivery issues related to AIDS and contemporary health care. The course examines how policies are made and the ramifications for individuals who need care, and the growing controversy regarding the costs and benefits of medical treatment for AIDS patients. The impact of advocacy and special interest groups and the development of alternative agencies are studied.
Prerequisite: SPPP 470
SPPP 529, Family and Child Policy and Service Delivery, 3
This course examines the roots of contemporary family policies, assesses the impact of social change on families, and evaluates the service delivery and policy issues that flow from one's definition of the family. The relationship between larger social policy issues and the family are explored, such as the impact of poverty and the consequences of welfare policy on women, members of minority groups, and individuals and groups with special needs.
Prerequisite: SPPP 470
Research (SRCH)
SRCH 426, Introduction to Social Research, 3
This course provides an overview of the basic concepts used in the conduct of scientific inquiry and the tools of research methodology. Students are prepared to read and evaluate social work research and relate findings to practice issues. Students are encouraged to focus on a practice-related research problem in their individual or group research projects. Students are alerted to the risks of cultural bias in research throughout the course through examples and scientific readings.
SRCH 530, Social Research in Direct Practice, 3
This advanced course prepares direct practice students to examine their own practice with individuals, families, and groups. Attention is given to basic principles of measurement and selection of appropriate measurement instruments for use in direct practice settings. The course is intended to provide students with the technical skills necessary to investigate the components of social work practice and contribute to an empirically validated social work knowledge base. The student is asked to determine the efficacy of his/her practice intervention in field placement by using a suitable design and method. A hands-on project is required using clinical experience from field practice.
Prerequisites: SRCH 426, SSWM 400, SASS 401
SRCH 532, Needs Assessment and Program Evaluation, 3
This course prepares macro practice students for assessing population needs and determining achievement of program objectives, outcomes, process, and cost-effectiveness. Research results are applied to policy information, planning, and program development. Students are asked to propose a project involving needs assessment of a population and/or a program evaluation using appropriate design and method. Completion of SASS 401 required.
Prerequisites: SRCH 426, SSWM 400, SSWM 510, SSBT 533, SSBT 534
SRCH 536, Individual Research Practicum, 3
With instructor and research sequence chair approval, an individual program of supervised research experience may be undertaken. This course allows the students to tailor a program of applied research to a specific practice issue or program.
Prerequisites: SRCH 426, SSWM 400, SASS 401
Socio-Behavioral Theory (SSBT)
SSBT 440, Human Development over the Life Span, 3
This course is an overview of normal individual development throughout the life cycle. Psychosocial, learning, and social role theories constitute the theoretical basis for the course. Developmentally determined objectives and tasks for every life stage are examined in the context of physical, psychological, familial, and sociocultural factors. Special emphasis is placed on the impact of gender, health, and minority status upon human development.
SSBT 500, Special Topics in Socio-behavioral Theory, 3
This seminar is intended for students who are interested in exploring advanced topics of current interest in sociobehavioral theory.
Prerequisite: SSBT 440
SSBT 501, Advanced Child/Adolescent Development and Dysfunction, 3
This course traces the development and dysfunction of individuals from conception through adolescence. It stresses transactions between the individual and his/her environment including schools, peers, community, and family. Special attention is given to the influences of poverty, gender, and ethnicity on development and dysfunction. A variety of etiologic perspectives are addressed in explaining the major maladaptive conditions of children and adolescents.
Prerequisite: SSBT 440
SSBT 508, Advanced Adult Development and Dysfunction, 3
This course examines broad perspectives on adult development and specific dysfunctions in adulthood. Several developmental theories are reviewed. The prevalent and serious emotional problems experienced by adults in our society are presented, with particular attention given to the social contexts in which these problems occur. Examples of such problems include martial dysfunction, family violence, maladaptive approaches to parenting, alcoholism and other addictions, depression, and suicide. The affects of poverty, gender, and minority status on development and dysfunction are addressed.
Prerequisite: SSBT 440
SSBT 520, Family Development, 3
This course covers development of the family over the life span, with an emphasis on normal family stages and tasks. Life cycle stages include marriage, parenting young children, families with adolescents, launching children and moving on, and families in later life. Divorce, remarriage, and forming a step-family are considered. The course covers a range of family forms based on culture and socioeconomics as well as changes in the family life cycle over time. Families coping with various life stressors, such as alcoholism or drug addiction, children with chronic illness or developmental disabilities, care of elderly family members, and living in impoverished conditions also are discussed.
Prerequisite: SSBT 440
SSBT 533, Small Group Theory, 3
This course addresses human behavior in small group settings, including families, peer groups, vocational and work groups, and committees and councils. Small group behavior is considered from a variety of normative and non-normative perspectives. Course content is applicable to direct practice with individuals, groups, and families, as well as work groups, committees, management, and community development.
Prerequisite: SSBT 440
SSBT 534, Organizational Theory, 3
This course is devoted to the understanding of organizational structure and its variability. Classical, neo-classical, systems, and interorganizational theories are considered. Issues addressed include organizational effectiveness, efficiency, survival, and productivity. Special focus is given to how nonprofit human service organizations are similar to and different from other organizations.
Prerequisite: SSBT 440
SSBT 535, Human Sexuality, 3
The course addresses sexuality as an integral part of human functioning and human relationships throughout the life cycle. The formation of sexual identify is addressed, including gender identity, sexual orientation, and sexual intention. The physiological and psychological aspects of sexual behavior are covered, including the effects of aging, chronic illness, and sexually transmitted diseases. The course concludes with practical applications for social work, including an overview of assessment and treatment of sexual dysfunction.
Prerequisite: SSBT 440
SSBT 542, Child and Adolescent Psychopathology, 3
This course focuses on the dynamics, etiology, and description of diagnosable mental disorders in children and adolescents including disorders of behavior, conduct, effect, and thought. The physical, psychological, environmental, and social factors that contribute to mental disorders in children and adolescents are emphasized, along with treatment possibilities and social implications.
Prerequisites: SSBT 440 and SSBT 501
SSBT 546, Theories of Poverty, 3
This course identifies and critically analyzes major theories or urban poverty and their implications for social policy in contemporary American society. Economic, sociocultural, cultural, and integrative theories of poverty are examined. Case studies of poverty theories for social policy and the elimination of poverty are addressed.
Prerequisite: SSBT 440
SSBT 548, Adult Psychopathology, 3
This course focuses on the dynamics of etiology, and description of diagnosable mental disorders in adults including neuroses, character disorders, and psychoses. The course emphasizes the physical, psychological, environmental, and social factors that contribute to mental disorders. Attention is given to treatment possibilities and the social implications of these disorders.
Prerequisites: SSBT 440 and SSBT 508
SSBT 555, Women's Issues, 3
This course examines various theories that are relevant to the development and socialization of women in this society, and discusses issues that are relevant to women's lives within the context of oppression based on sexism, racism, ageism, homophobia, and other forms of discrimination. Emphasis is placed on assisting students in becoming more aware of the issues that are specifically relevant to their own development and socialization, and preparing for effective and sensitive professional practice by increasing knowledge about the issues facing women with whom they work.
Prerequisite: SSBT 440
SSBT 584, Discrimination and Inequality, 3
This course focuses on the various types of inequity and theories that explain and predict their growth. A special emphasis is placed on the impact of social institutions on personality, group, and family development. Concepts such as class, gender roles, ageism, sexism, and racism are discussed. Policy and practice implications are explored.
Prerequisite: SSBT 440
Social Work Practice Methods (SSWM)
SSWM 400, Social Work Methods, 3
The foundation methods course is based on a generalist social work practice perspective incorporating a problem-solving methodology applicable to client systems including individuals, families, small groups, organizations, and communities. Emphasis is placed on developing skills with respect to relationship formation and engagement; data collection and assessment; goal setting and contracting; designing and implementing appropriate interventions; assuming appropriate practice roles; evaluation; and termination. Explicit attention is given to issues of human diversity and their impact on work with clients at all points in the social work process. The course is undergirded by relevant sociobehavioral and practice theories that emphasize the reciprocal nature of person-environment interaction.
SSWM 500, Special Topics in Social Work Methods, 3
This seminar course is intended for students who are interested in exploring advanced topics of current interest in methods.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 510, Organizational Management and Community Change, 6
This course introduces the management of human and financial resources as the primary challenge of organizations and communities. Social science concepts, theories, and practices are utilized to emphasize the key leadership functions of planning, inspiring, coordinating, decision-making, and dilemma-managing. Administrative and governance styles, budget formats and processes, and community organizing strategies are additional areas of study.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400, SSBT 533, SSBT 534
SSWM 517, Family System Interventions, 3
This course provides students with a family system perspective for direct practice with individuals and families. Basic concepts of family systems assessment and intervention are presented and applied to social work practice situations. Consideration is given to those factors that maintain the status quo in families, making change difficult. Methods and techniques for working with a variety of family forms and families of differing ethnic backgrounds are discussed. The course also explores the effect of family therapy on the family and the worker.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400 and SSBT 520
SSWM 530, Organizational Assessment and Redesign, 3
This course is designed to provide a conceptual and practical understanding of planned change in human service agencies from an organizational behaviorist perspective. Necessary skills and strategies for identifying the need for change, preparing the organization and managing the process, and institutionalizing the change are critically examined and explored.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400, SSWM 510
SSWM 531, Interorganizational Relations, 3
The goal of this course is to provide organizational leaders with the concepts and practices critical to the development of interorganizational collaboration. Various strategies are examined and existing community-based and international linkages are explored.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400 and SSWM 510
SSWM 533, Volunteer Management, 3
Nonprofit organizations need an ongoing supply of dedicated volunteers to effectively survive the challenges of the 1990s and beyond. The major emphasis of this course is mastering theories and practices of motivation as they relate to effective recruitment and development of volunteer staff.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400 and SSWM 510
SSWM 541, Attracting Government, Foundation and Corporate Support, 3
This course features--for government, foundation, and corporation funding sources--the trends, types of support available, sources of information, processes for accessing, criteria for decision-making, and the politics of grant, contract, in-kind, or other types of support. Preparation of winning proposals constitutes a special focus. Nonprofit organizations' accountability, stewardship, and recognition responsibilities or activities are explored.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400, SSWM 510
SSWM 542, Conducting Annual, Federated and Membership Campaigns, 3
This course gives in-depth attention to the planning, implementation, and evaluation of annual funds, federated campaigns, and membership campaigns. Special attention is paid to direct mail fund raising, telemarketing, phonathons, and special events fund raising. Computer software options and the selection and use of consultants are highlighted.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400 and SSWM 510
SSWM 543, Major Gift, Planned Giving & Capital Campaign Fund Raising, 3
This course gives in-depth attention to the planning, implementation, and evaluation of major gift, planned giving, and capital campaign fund raising. Prospect identification, rating, cultivation, solicitation, and recognition are featured. Special attention is given to developing case statements, face-to-face solicitation techniques, computer software options, selection and use of consultants, and donor stewardship programs.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400 and SSWM 510
SSWM 564, Interventions in Alcohol Abuse and Chemical Dependency, 3
This course provides a basic orientation to alcohol and other drug abuses (AODA) as problems requiring the various interventions that constitute the social work profession. The historical background of AODA treatment interventions, self-help groups, and conceptual models of addiction are presented. Emphasis is placed on current assessment techniques and treatment of the following populations: women, minorities, physically challenged, adolescents, and multi-problem individuals. Students will explore their own attitudes and values toward AODA problems and how these affect treatment outcomes and program development.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 565, Child Welfare Practice, 3
This course covers the knowledge, concepts, and tools needed in contemporary child welfare practice. Practice methods reflect a family-centered approach in which welfare of children is considered in the context of family systems of which they are a part. The continuum of child welfare services is covered including culturally relevant social work roles, activities and intervention strategies. Topics include risk assessment, case planning, intervention approaches, work with families, supportive services, placement intervention, foster care, group care, adoptions, legal issues, and reunification.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 566, Jewish Thought and Social Work Practice, 3
This course focuses on conflicts and linkages in Jewish thought between tradition and modernity and the implications of these philosophical positions for current social work practice. Beginning with a sense of history, the interaction among concepts such as charity (justice), community, peoplehood, and individualism will be discussed as they are reflected in classical Jewish literature and social science theory. The focus is on the implications for social work practice, administration, program development, and the role of the professional social worker.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 567, Community Organization and Development Strategies, 3
The general purpose of this course is to apply social science theory to the issues of the economy. The course develops theories and concepts pertaining to neighborhood and community life; identifies program and policy approaches to combat community disinvestment as they relate to economics, housing, and community development; and identifies types of community organizations and the roles of the professional social worker.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400 and SSWM 510
SSWM 568, Social Networks and Social Supports in Direct Practice, 3
This course examines the preventative and remedial functions of social supports in areas of normal human development as well as in crisis situations. Attention is paid to a wide variety of practice issues including the role and function of social workers in various informal and self-help networks, referral, and follow-up. Other topics include assessment, selection, implementation, and evaluation of formal, informal, and self-help service delivery options. Social network interventions are applied to child welfare, alcohol and other drug abuse, aging, health, and mental health settings.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 569, Management of Community-based Development, 3
This course examines the fundamentals of building and managing an effective community development organization. Students will develop an understanding of community development with a focus on housing, economic development, and community building. Community building integrates family development, education and health, housing, and economic development.
Prerequisites: SSWM 510, SSWM 567, SSWM 400
SSWM 571, Case Management, 3
This course addresses case management as an interdisciplinary human service intervention and examines the social, policy, programmatic, and practice factors that shape the delivery of case management services. A variety of models of case management are covered, along with their respective implications for social work practice. Multiple perspectives of consumers of case management services are addressed.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 572, The Child, Family, and Out of Home Care, 3
This course covers the roles, skills, and activities required for social work practice with children who are living in substitute care settings (foster care, group homes, and residential settings). Issues of separation, loss, and attachment to caregivers are stressed. Practice skills in working with children individually and in groups are presented. Skills in working with foster families, substitute caregivers, and biological parents are covered. Special concerns surrounding adoption and emancipation are explored.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400, SSBT 440
SSWM 573, Home Based Family Intervention, 3
This course covers the philosophy, characteristics, and practice techniques of home based family interventions. Culturally appropriate assessment, engagement, and intervention techniques are covered. Students will learn to complete genograms, assess social support systems, join with the family, and establish goals, along with a variety of practice skills such as communication, cognitive-behavioral, and parenting. Crisis intervention techniques are covered to ensure family safety and stability. Special issues related to termination, supervision, and worker burnout are included.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400 and SSWM 517
SSWM 574, Integrative Seminar in Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse, 3
This is an advanced methods course in alcohol and other drug abuse treatment which builds upon the material presented in the methods course (SSWM 564) in alcohol other drug abuse. The course is intended as an elective course for students who are interested in developing their clinical skills in AODA and in enhancing their abilities to conduct an empirically-based practice with AODA clients. Course objectives include integrating clinical and research knowledge about AODA; strengthening the student's clinical skills in AODA practice; focusing on the complexity of comorbidity issues of AODA practice including, but not limited to, mental health problems, sexual victimization, and domestic and family violence; and recognizing policies and practices relevant to cultural diversity, gender differences and discrimination in social work practice with AODA problems.
Prerequisites: SPPP 502 and SSWM 564, SSWM 400, SPPP 470
SSWM 575, Social Work with People Who Have Chronic Mental Illnesses, 3
This advanced course will focus on treatment and intervention with people who have chronic mental illnesses. It is intended to teach students (1) interviewing and assessment techniques particular to this population, and (2) community-based treatment and rehabilitative approaches, services and programs. Specific types of community-based programs which have been shown empirically to be effective in reducing relapse and increasing client functioning will be reviewed, including medication management, continuous treatment teams, and family psychoeducation programs. As such, the course will cover the skills and knowledge necessary for social work with individuals.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 579, Cognitive Behavioral Interventions, 3
This course acquaints students with the theoretical, conceptual, and skill bases of several cognitive-behavioral approaches to practice. Topics include assessment, use of tasks and homework, coping skills, cognitive restructuring, and problem solving approaches to practice. The course draws upon students' field and work experiences to illustrate the application of the concepts and skills under discussion.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 580, Mental Health Practice with Children and Adolescents, 3
This course focuses on promoting adaptive changes in children and adolescents who have a diagnosable mental illness. Students will gain an understanding of interventions with clients displaying a broad range of disorders, from short-term behavior problems to severe depression. The course emphasizes techniques of interviewing and intervention, assessment of normal and pathological functioning, the importance of parental influences/behaviors, and environmental and contextual factors.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400 and SSBT 501
SSWM 581, Social Work with Older Adults, 3
This course focuses on various intervention strategies particularly appropriate for social work with the elderly. Social work in institutional, community, and home based care is considered. Attention is given to work with special populations of the elderly including women and minorities of color.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 582, Social Work in Child Abuse and Family Violence, 3
This course addresses the etiology and treatment of child abuse including sexual abuse and the roles of child welfare, health, and mental health agencies. Particular attention is given to direct work with children and adults who have experienced abuse, and to interventions in instances of family violence.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400, SSBT 501
SSWM 583, Mental Health Practice with Adults, 3
This course focuses on promoting adaptive change in adult individuals who have a diagnosable mental illness. Students will gain an understanding of interventions with clients displaying a broad range of disorders, from transient adjustment and anxiety disorders to chronic mental illness. The course emphasizes techniques of interviewing and intervention, assessment of normal and pathological functioning, and the importance of environmental, familial, and contextual factors.
Prerequisites: SSWM 400, SSBT 508
SSWM 584, Social Work with Couples, 3
This course provides an overview of assessment and intervention methods for working with couples around issues of marriage, divorce, and remarriage. Alternative couple forms are discussed. The course emphasizes systems and social learning approaches, communication and negotiation in problem solving and its relevance to assessment, treatment structure, and techniques. Special attention is given to problems of chemical dependency, its effects on the family, and appropriate treatment approaches.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 585, Social Work with Groups, 3
A theoretical formulation of the social group work method as a problem-solving process is addressed. Exercise are presented in the use of diagnostic skills to determine individual needs and problems for which groups may be helpful, the worker's role in facilitating group functioning through his/her interventions in the group process and structure, and his/her use of various program media. Attention is given to the significance of goals, agency environment, and policy for direct work with groups.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 586, Social Work with Minority Populations, 3
This course builds on knowledge of values, principles, concepts and problem solving skills gained in earlier methods courses. Attention is given to practice approaches that flow from understanding the duality of the ethnic minority experience and the interaction of the nurturing and sustaining environment of which individuals and families are a part. This dual perspective provides a basis for problem/need identification, assessment, goal formulation, and interventions. Focus is on Native American Indians, Appalachian whites, Asian Americans, African Americans, and Hispanic Americans.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
SSWM 589, Social Work Intervention in Chronic Illness, 3
This course focuses on direct social work practice on behalf of individuals and their families in all age groups who suffer from chronic illness. Particular emphasis is placed on the psychosocial consequences of chronic illness, its inherent stresses, and concomitant problem areas. The course offers substantive content related to social attitudes, stereotypes, and environmental conditions with reference to their effect on social functioning, interpersonal relationships, and physical mobility.
Prerequisite: SSWM 400
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