School of Social Work

SOWK 1350. Introduction to Social Work.

This course introduces students to the history, roles, and practice contexts of the social work profession. Students study major service settings, the development of professional standards, and the conceptual frameworks used to understand social issues and client needs. The course examines organizational structures, policies that influence practice, and the ways ecological and systems models are applied within the field. Emphasis is placed on analyzing professional codes of ethics, reviewing historical developments, and evaluating research and policy impacts in an academically grounded manner. Students gain familiarity with various practice areas and populations while developing skills for interpreting information, comparing practice approaches, and understanding the responsibilities of professional social workers.

SOWK 2320. Foundations of Interpersonal Relationships.

This course surveys theoretical and empirical approaches to understanding interpersonal attraction, friendship, love, and sexuality. Students examine major models describing how relationships are initiated, developed, and maintained, with attention to cultural, developmental, and contextual influences on relational patterns. Emphasis is placed on the critical evaluation of empirical research, including analysis of case examples and scholarly debates. Students assess how relationship theories are interpreted and applied within various academic and professional contexts, particularly those concerned with human behavior and social interaction. The course develops skills in comparing theoretical perspectives, evaluating evidence, and interpreting research findings related to close relationships.

SOWK 2375. Social Services in the Community.

This course examines the structure, functions, and policies of social service organizations within contemporary community contexts. Students study how agencies develop, administer, and deliver services, with attention to the populations they may serve. The course introduces foundational concepts in social welfare, organizational processes, and historical developments shaping current service systems. Students also complete 50 hours of supervised observation and volunteer participation in approved social service settings, enabling them to analyze how theoretical frameworks, regulatory requirements, and agency practices operate in real world environments.

SOWK 3305. Seminar in Human Behavior and Social Environment I.

This course examines theories and research related to human behavior within social, organizational, and community environments. Students study systems and ecological frameworks to analyze how biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors interact across the life course. The course emphasizes critical engagement with empirical findings, professional standards, and applications relevant to working with groups, organizations, and communities. Students learn to evaluate major theoretical models and consider their usefulness for understanding varied populations and social contexts. The course prepares students for advanced BSW coursework by developing analytical skills related to assessment, interpretation, and professional decision-making. Prerequisite: SOWK 2375 with a grade of "C" or better. Corequisite: SOWK 3420 with a grade of "C" or better.

SOWK 3312. Alcoholism and Chemical Dependence.

This course examines commonly used psychoactive substances, and the social, biological, psychological, and cultural dimensions of substance use and dependence. Students analyze theories of addiction, patterns of substance use, and the structure of prevention and treatment programs serving individuals, families, and communities. The course explores policy trends, legal frameworks, and ethical considerations relevant to social work practice. Emphasis is placed on evidence‑based interventions, professional standards, and the role of social workers in assessment, referral, and service coordination. Through case analysis and research‑informed discussion, students develop an understanding of various approaches to addressing substance‑related concerns across populations and service settings.

SOWK 3332. Military Service, Family Adjustment, and Community Support Systems.

This course examines reintegration experiences among service members, veterans, and military-connected families following periods of military service and deployment. Students analyze empirical research, conceptual frameworks, and organizational systems that shape reintegration across individual, relational, institutional, and community contexts. Emphasis is placed on policies, resource networks, and interdisciplinary service structures as objects of study. The course presents challenges, supports, and system responses descriptively and analytically rather than prescriptively. Students develop the ability to critically evaluate research findings, service delivery models, and professional roles relevant to military-connected populations in civilian and institutional settings.

SOWK 3340. Social Work Research.

This course introduces students to the principles and methods of scientific inquiry used in social work practice and program evaluation. Students examine research terminology, study designs, and evidence‑informed approaches that support generalist practice. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking skills, understanding practice‑informed research processes, and analyzing methodological strengths and limitations. The course prepares students to interpret research findings, assess intervention effectiveness, and apply inquiry‑based reasoning in future coursework. Prerequisite: [CJ 3347 or HP 3302 or HP 3325 or PSY 2301 or SOCI 3307] and SOWK 3425 both with grades of "C" or better. Corequisite: SOWK 4356 and SOWK 4425 both with grades of "C" or better.

SOWK 3420. Social Work Practice I.

This course introduces students to generalist social work practice with emphasis on micro and mezzo levels of intervention. Students examine methods for data collection, assessment, intervention planning, and evaluation as they are applied in work with individuals, families, and groups. The course provides an overview of theories, practice frameworks, and methodological tools used in direct practice settings. Emphasis is placed on studying how practitioners engage clients, analyze presenting concerns, and structure intervention processes. Students critically explore the relationship between theory, knowledge, and practice while learning how professional standards, ethical guidelines, and organizational contexts shape decision‑making. The course prepares students for more advanced practice courses by developing foundational knowledge and analytical skills. Prerequisite: SOWK 2375 with a grade of "C" or better. Corequisite: SOWK 3305 with a grade of "C" or better.

SOWK 3425. Social Work Practice II.

This course examines generalist social work practice at the macro level, with emphasis on work with task groups, organizations, and communities. The course explores data collection, assessment, planning, intervention design, implementation processes, and evaluation methods used in community and organizational settings. Students analyze models of community organization, principles of organizational theory, and the relationship between policy and practice. A structured community‑based project provides an applied context for assessing community characteristics, identifying intervention strategies, and evaluating outcomes within an agency or community setting. Prerequisites: SOWK 3420 with a grade of "C" or better. Corequisites: SOWK 4305 with a grade of "C" or better.

SOWK 4300E. Statistics for Social Work Online.

This course builds foundation scientific research skills. Students develop critical thinking skills, knowledge of program and practice evaluation, and a philosophy of generalist social work practice.

SOWK 4300F. International Social Work.

This course covers basic theoretical and practical approaches to empowerment, social and economic justice, and human rights. Particular cultures and specific global problems are examined in-depth to promote student acquisition of an international worldview for human global change based on social work values and research-informed practice.

SOWK 4300J. Skills for Nonprofit Management.

This course introduces undergraduate students to core management skills and organizational issues relevant to nonprofit and human services organizations. Emphasis is placed on administrative structures, governance, leadership, resource management, and service delivery at the organizational and systems level. Students examine how social work and allied disciplines inform nonprofit management practices, including ethical and professional standards reflected in established codes and guidelines. The course develops analytical and critical thinking skills applicable to work in public, private, and nonprofit human services settings, and provides exposure to professional expectations and emerging trends in nonprofit management.

SOWK 4300K. Innovative Community Engagement with Vulnerable Populations.

This hybrid, service-learning, Study-in-America course will require students to identify, examine, and critically analyze social service programs in Central Texas and Los Angeles, California which provide services to vulnerable populations (persons experiencing poverty, homelessness, food insecurity, criminal justice issues, etc.). The impact of socio-economic and community-based social justice issues is analyzed within the context of human development over the life course with an emphasis on the impact of positive individual and community development. Cultural dynamics are examined in conjunction with issues of equity, justice, and community service provision. This course is designed to be highly experiential.

SOWK 4300O. Social Work in Hawaii: An Interdisciplinary Perspective (Service Learning Designated).

This course examines the historical development, organizational structures, and contemporary practices of social service delivery in Honolulu, Hawaii. Using an interdisciplinary framework, students analyze community‑based responses to social needs through academic study, guided field experiences, and structured reflection. The hybrid format includes synchronous and asynchronous online learning, pre‑travel orientations, and required site visits to social service agencies and community organizations. Emphasis is placed on ethical practice, professional standards, and comparative analysis of service models within local, national, and international contexts.

SOWK 4300P. Perspectives in Global Social Work Ethics.

This course introduces students to major perspectives, frameworks, and debates in global social work ethics. Students examine how ethical standards are conceptualized across countries and professional organizations, and how international contexts shape practice considerations. In this course, an emphasis is placed on analyzing ethical dilemmas as academic case studies. The course provides opportunities to compare codes of ethics, assess approaches to decision‑making, and evaluate how global events intersect with professional expectations. Through readings and structured discussions, students develop skills to critically interpret international ethical issues, distinguish among professional standards, and understand the relevance of ethics in varied practice environments. Prerequisite: [SOWK 1350 or SOWK 2375] with a grade of "D" or better.

SOWK 4300T. Foundations of Human Trafficking Studies.

This course examines human trafficking from global, national, state, and community perspectives using multidisciplinary frameworks. Students study major forms of human trafficking as described by international and national agencies. Emphasis is placed on understanding research, policy, and professional roles across disciplines. Students learn how various fields analyze indicators, coordinate responses, and evaluate practices aimed at addressing human trafficking within diverse contexts. Through collaborative activities, students explore evidence‑based approaches and consider how different professions contribute to informed, ethical, and person‑centered responses.

SOWK 4301. School Social Work.

This course provides an overview of social work services in educational settings. Students examine educational issues, conceptual frameworks, and the policies that shape mental health and support systems in schools. The course reviews how service delivery models operate, including methods of collaboration with families, teachers, and community partners. Topics include approaches to working with varied student populations, referral systems, and the organizational features of schools that influence practice. Students analyze research and professional models to understand how social workers engage with multidisciplinary teams and support students across different educational contexts.

SOWK 4302. Hip Hop and Social Work.

This course examines Hip Hop culture within the context of human development across the life course. It analyzes cultural dynamics and the role of artistic expression in the social and political history of the United States. The course compares scholarly and professional approaches that incorporate Hip Hop–informed practices in therapeutic, educational, health, and community program settings. Students also examine interdisciplinary, community-based frameworks used to study how cultural practices intersect with social services across multiple sectors.

SOWK 4303. Spirituality in Social Work Contexts.

This course examines how spirituality is understood, expressed, and applied within varied social work contexts. Students explore interdisciplinary research, theoretical perspectives, and practice frameworks used to study spiritually relevant approaches in work with individuals, families, and communities. Content emphasizes inquiry‑based learning, allowing students to analyze multiple viewpoints and evaluate when and how spiritual considerations may be relevant to assessment, engagement, intervention, or evaluation. The course includes opportunities to examine one’s own professional assumptions while maintaining respect for varied individual and belief orientations. By situating spirituality as an area of scholarly investigation, the course prepares students to make informed, ethical, and context‑appropriate decisions in their future practice.

SOWK 4304. Animal-Assisted Therapy.

This course introduces students to the study of human–animal interactions and their applications in therapeutic and supportive settings. Students examine foundational concepts, review research on the human–animal bond and explore how animal-assisted interventions are developed and implemented across various contexts. The course emphasizes professional standards, ethical considerations, and animal welfare as students analyze program structures and observe examples from community partners. By treating therapeutic approaches as objects of inquiry, the course supports students in understanding models used in practice and prepares them for further study in related fields. Prerequisite: SOWK 1350 with a grade of "C" or better.

SOWK 4305. Seminar in Human Behavior and Social Environment II.

This course examines human behavior through biopsychosocial, ecological, and developmental frameworks, emphasizing how individuals, families, and small groups function within varied environments. Drawing from research in the social sciences and concepts introduced in SOWK 3305, students analyze factors that shape behavior across the lifespan. The course focuses on how biological, psychological, social, and environmental processes interact, preparing students to apply these perspectives to case examples in professional practice. All frameworks are examined as areas of scholarly inquiry, allowing students to evaluate their usefulness across settings. Prerequisite: SOWK 3305 with a grade of "C" or better. Corequisite: SOWK 3425 with a grade of "C" or better.

SOWK 4306. Statistics for Social Work.

This undergraduate course introduces students to the foundational concepts and skills of descriptive and inferential statistics used in the behavioral and social sciences. Emphasis is placed on understanding statistical terminology, interpreting numerical data, and applying basic analytical techniques relevant to generalist social work practice. The course prepares students for subsequent quantitative coursework in the BSW curriculum by establishing the logic underlying statistical reasoning and familiarizing them with common forms of data encountered in research on social systems and populations. Together, these components provide a basis for evaluating empirical findings and engaging with quantitative approaches in later academic and professional contexts.

SOWK 4308. Study in America: Los Angeles, California.

This course examines social service programs in Central Texas and urban Los Angeles, California through a hybrid, experiential learning format. Students analyze organizational models, service delivery approaches, and community contexts using structured site visits and guided observational activities. The course emphasizes analytical examination of socio-economic and community factors that influence human development and social service delivery, as well as multidisciplinary community-based responses. Based on systematic analysis of observed programs, students evaluate service delivery approaches and compare organizational strategies across settings.

SOWK 4310. Populations in Social Work.

This course examines knowledge and skills relevant to effective, ethical, and professional social work practice. Students analyze how social, cultural, economic, and institutional factors shape experiences across varied populations and influence service delivery at individual, group, community, and policy levels. The course emphasizes examination of professional standards, major theoretical frameworks, and methods for critically analyzing research, policy, and practice contexts. Students are introduced to ethical reasoning processes used in social work decision making and to the evaluation of evidence informing practice choices. The course prepares students to assess practice situations using established disciplinary frameworks while forming independent professional judgments.

SOWK 4312. International Social Work.

This course presents an overview of international social work with a focus on varied populations. Through environmental and experiential immersion, students will explore basic theoretical and practical approaches (historical and contemporary) to social work, with emphasis on varied communities. Students will explore an international worldview and learn how to contribute to research-informed practice. In addition, the impact of socio-economic and community-based issues will be analyzed within the context of human development over the life course with an emphasis on the impact of positive individual and community development. This course is designed to be highly experiential and requires thought, empathy, and critical thinking.

SOWK 4315. Introduction to Child Welfare Systems and Practices.

This course examines the structure, purpose, and practices of child welfare systems, focusing on services provided to children and families in a range of settings. Students study how child protection agencies, community organizations, and service providers assess needs, implement interventions, and collaborate across disciplines. The course analyzes definitions of maltreatment as established in law and professional standards while evaluating the evidence base for various approaches. Emphasis is placed on understanding system operations, decision‑making processes, and the professional roles involved.

SOWK 4318. Social Work and Health Care.

This course introduces generalist social work perspectives within mental health, public health, and broader health care environments. Students examine how health systems operate and how social, environmental, and organizational factors relate to health outcomes. The course focuses on established intervention strategies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional standards that guide practice. Students analyze research-informed approaches to assessment, service delivery, and care coordination while studying a range of health conditions across populations. Ethical considerations are presented as frameworks for decision-making rather than prescriptive viewpoints. Emphasis is placed on understanding models, methods, and evidence that inform professional practice.

SOWK 4320. Social Work with Older Adults.

This course examines social problems affecting older adults, including economic, health, familial, and community‑based challenges. Students study intervention models and service delivery systems designed for aging populations, with attention to their historical development, organizational structures, and evidence base. Contemporary social issues are analyzed within broader societal and cultural contexts, emphasizing how policies and professional standards shape responses to aging‑related concerns. The course introduces ethical frameworks used in generalist practice and explores how ethical reasoning is applied to practice decisions. Emphasis is placed on critical analysis, comparative perspectives, and informed professional judgment.

SOWK 4333. Comparative Social Work Ethics for Education Abroad.

This course examines how social work codes of ethics are articulated and applied in different national contexts during an Education Abroad program. Students study the structure, purposes, and interpretive traditions of the NASW Code of Ethics alongside the professional standards of a host country, analyzing similarities and differences. The course emphasizes evidence‑based reasoning, comparative analysis, and the interpretation of historical ethical dilemmas in social work practice. Through structured academic inquiry, students evaluate the ways ethical frameworks guide decision‑making and respond to changing professional environments. Prerequisite: SOWK 1350 and SOWK 2375 both with grades of "C" or better.

SOWK 4334. Social Work During the Education Abroad Experience.

This course examines social work processes and social service systems encountered during an Education Abroad experience. Students study models of service delivery, professional roles, and approaches to engaging varied population groups in the host country. The course emphasizes analytical comparison between local and international practices, including how policy, organizational structures, and cultural contexts shape service provision. Through guided academic inquiry, students evaluate practice frameworks, ethical considerations, and legislation relevant to social work in global settings. The course treats all topics as objects of study and supports students’ development of professional knowledge grounded in international perspectives. Prerequisite: SOWK 1350 and SOWK 2375 both with a grade of "C" or better.

SOWK 4355. Policy Practice.

This course examines the development, structure, and implementation of social welfare policy in the United States. Students study legislative and administrative processes, the historical context of major policies, and their implications for various population groups. Emphasis is placed on analyzing how federal, state, and local systems shape service delivery and on evaluating policy options using research, professional ethics, and regulatory frameworks. The course builds upon introductory policy content and provides opportunities for students to investigate contemporary debates, assess multiple perspectives, and apply policy‑analysis skills relevant to social work practice. Students learn methods used in policy evaluation, stakeholder engagement, and evidence‑informed decision‑making within human service environments. Prerequisite: SOWK 1350 and 2375 with a grade of "D" or better or instructor approval.

SOWK 4356. Professionalism in Social Work.

This course examines foundational concepts and practices of professional behavior in social work settings, including communication, self‑presentation, organization skills, supervision, and preparation for professional responsibilities such as court testimony. Students study workplace expectations, approaches to professional growth, and methods for analyzing organizational structures. The course introduces strategies for recognizing work‑related stress and developing individualized self‑care plans as part of responsible professional practice. Emphasis is placed on learning to apply ethical standards and regulatory requirements through case analysis and simulated professional tasks. All concepts are presented as objects of academic and professional inquiry to prepare students for upper‑division field education and for effective participation in various organizational environments. Prerequisite: SOWK 3425 and SOWK 4305 both with grades of "C" or better. Corequisite: SOWK 3340 and SOWK 4425 both with grades of "C" or better.

SOWK 4360. Directed Study in Social Work.

This course provides an opportunity for undergraduate students to engage in individualized study under faculty supervision. Students complete guided readings, independent research, and structured academic projects in an area of social work aligned with faculty expertise. Enrollment requires approval of the instructor and the BSW Coordinator. The student and instructor collaboratively determine academic objectives and a final deliverable demonstrating knowledge gained through the study. This course may be repeated once for credit with a different focus. Emphasis is placed on scholarly inquiry, critical analysis, and application of social work concepts. Prerequisite: Department approval.

SOWK 4374. Generalist Field Integrative Seminar I.

This course provides an integrative seminar designed to support students completing their concurrent field practicum in a social service agency. The course examines generalist social work practice through discussion of professional roles, practice tasks, supervision, and decision‑making within agency settings. Students study how social workers apply theoretical frameworks, evidence‑informed methods, and professional standards in real‑world contexts. Through structured reflection and analysis, the seminar emphasizes critical thinking, professional communication, and the use of research to inform practice. The course prepares students to link classroom learning with agency‑based experiences while developing competence in applying generalist practice knowledge across various client situations. Prerequisite: SOWK 3340 and SOWK 4356 and SOWK 4425 all with grades of "C" or better. Corequisite: SOWK 4975 with a grade of "CR".

SOWK 4425. Social Work Practice III.

This course focuses on developing interpersonal, interviewing, and communication skills used in generalist social work practice. Students examine theoretical models and apply them to structured practice activities designed to build competency for beginning field placement. Through guided exercises, students practice assessment, goal‑setting, documentation, and intervention techniques while analyzing how professional standards inform decision‑making. The course emphasizes objective skill development and application, critical evaluation of practice methods, and the use of responsive communication strategies in work with individuals, families, and groups. Students learn to interpret ethical frameworks, apply them to case examples, and develop professional competencies relevant to direct practice settings. Prerequisites: SOWK 3425 and SOWK 4305 both with grades of "C" or better. Corequisites: SOWK 3340 and SOWK 4356 both with grades of "C" or better.

SOWK 4975. Generalist Field Practicum II.

This course provides structured experiential learning in social service agencies, enabling students to apply generalist social work knowledge across micro, mezzo, and macro practice settings. Students observe and engage in supervised practice activities that support the integration of classroom learning with field-based application. Emphasis is placed on developing professional behaviors, practicing ethically within established codes and standards, and utilizing research-informed approaches to assessment and intervention. Through supervised responsibilities, students learn to analyze organizational contexts, understand a range of client experiences, and reflect on their professional growth. The course supports the demonstration of competencies expected for generalist-level social work practice. Prerequisite: SOWK 3340 and SOWK 4356 and SOWK 4425 all with grades of "C" or better. Corequisite: SOWK 4374 with a grade of "B" or better.