Social Work (SOWK)

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.

SOWK 5111. Foundation Part-Time Field Practicum I.

This course provides supervised experiential learning in social service settings where students apply foundational micro, mezzo, and macro practice concepts when working with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Students integrate concepts from the companion seminar while engaging in structured learning activities within a human service agency. The practicum focuses on integrating classroom knowledge with real‑world responsibilities by applying evidence-informed approaches, engaging in structured supervision, developing professional skills, and examining how organizational contexts shape practice decisions. This course is the first part of the part-time foundation field sequence and is completed only by students enrolled in part-time study. Prerequisite: SOWK 5313 and SOWK 5314 both with grades of "B" or better. Corequisite: SOWK 5376 with a grade of "B" or better.

SOWK 5300E. Social Work and Health Care.

This elective course provides a generalist view of social work practice in mental health and public health, considering the social problems that affect health care, and ethical and effective intervention strategies and service delivery systems. Prerequisite: Departmental approval.

SOWK 5300F. International Social Work.

This course covers advanced 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 5300H. Comparative Social Work Ethics in Canterbury.

This course assists students in expanding an intermediate level of knowledge, values, and skills in the area of ethics in social work. The NASW Code of Ethics (US) and the National Codes of Ethics from the International Federation of Social Workers are used.

SOWK 5300I. Social Work and Social Services in Canterbury.

The purpose of this course is to assist the student in exploring social work processes, social service provision and services to special populations in Canterbury, England. Agency visits or primary research will guide learning.

SOWK 5300J. Introduction to Trauma Informed Care.

This advanced course focuses on culturally relevant knowledge and skills for theory-based, therapeutic assessment and intervention with diverse families and groups. The course emphasizes systemic, critical analysis of contemporary mental health practice using a psychosocial, strengths-based framework.

SOWK 5300K. Analysis of Community‑Based Social Service Programs.

This course examines social service programs serving populations commonly identified as vulnerable in Central Texas and Los Angeles, California. In this hybrid, service-learning Study-in-America course, students analyze organizational structures, service delivery models, and community contexts through structured site visits and guided experiential activities. Emphasis is placed on examining socio‑economic and community factors that influence human development, social service delivery, and multidisciplinary responses. Students use observational and analytical methods to assess how different program models operate within varied community settings.

SOWK 5300N. Social Work Practice in the Criminal Justice System.

This graduate elective course explores an integrated approach to social work practice in the criminal justice system. It provides a comprehensive framework of knowledge, values, and skills for effective and ethical practice serving diverse and vulnerable clients and communities. It assumes an evidence-based and strengths-oriented social justice perspective to contemporary challenges and opportunities. It engages students in a process of self-reflection that assists them in developing an individualized professional model of potential practice in this critically relevant field.

SOWK 5300O. Social Work in Hawaii: An Interdisciplinary Perspective (Service-Learning Designated).

This course examines social service delivery systems in Honolulu, Hawaii, through an interdisciplinary and experiential framework. The hybrid course combines online instruction, pre‑travel orientations, site visits, and supervised service‑learning within human service agencies. Students study the historical development, organizational structures, and community contexts of social services in Hawaii, with attention to varied populations and practice settings. Course activities include synchronous and asynchronous learning, agency observations, and applied analysis of micro, mezzo, and macro social work practice. Prerequisite: Minimum 3.0 TXST GPA.

SOWK 5301. School Social Work.

This course examines the roles, responsibilities, and professional frameworks of social workers in school settings. Students analyze the unique challenges of delivering services within educational systems and study the interaction of school structures, policies, and student needs. The course introduces evidence‑informed intervention and prevention approaches for children and youth in at‑risk situations. Emphasis is placed on understanding organizational dynamics, legal foundations, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the ecological factors that influence student well‑being. Students apply research to assess and evaluate school social work practices.

SOWK 5302. Hip Hop and Social Work.

This course examines Hip Hop culture within the context of human development across the life course. Emphasis is placed on analyzing personal, professional, and community‑based strategies associated with individual and collective well‑being. Contemporary issues related to social and political dynamics are explored for their potential influence on health and developmental outcomes. Students compare applications of Hip Hop‑integrated approaches across therapeutic, educational, physical health, and afterschool or summer program settings. The course also considers interdisciplinary perspectives on community‑based initiatives and their implications for individual and community development.

SOWK 5303. Spirituality in Social Work Contexts.

This course examines how spirituality and religion are addressed within social work practice, research, and professional ethics. It introduces theoretical frameworks, empirical research, and interdisciplinary perspectives relevant to spiritually sensitive practice with varied populations. Students analyze major religious and spiritual traditions, evaluate approaches to assessment and intervention, and examine ethical considerations related to client self‑determination and cultural humility. The course emphasizes critical analysis, professional standards, and reflective awareness as tools for competent and ethical social work practice in varied practice settings.

SOWK 5304. Adventure Therapy: Theory, Research & Practice.

This course examines adventure therapy theory, research, and practice within a social work framework. Students study the development, foundations, and applications of adventure‑based interventions and analyze research that informs contemporary practice. The course introduces approaches to assessment, intervention planning, and evaluation in adventure therapy, with attention to group facilitation methods and varied practice settings. Students explore how adventure therapy is used with various populations and review scholarship relevant to its effectiveness and professional standards. Emphasis is placed on developing skills in evidence‑informed decision‑making and applying theoretical concepts to practice scenarios.

SOWK 5305. Social Work and Health Care.

This course focuses on the role of social work in mental and public health care settings. Health care social work will be examined, with particular attention to the role of social work on interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary teams. Ethical and effective interventions and service delivery systems are examined as pertaining to the social problems that affect overall health. The Life-Course Health Development and Person-in-Environment perspectives are utilized to understand mental and physical health throughout the lifespan. Prerequisite: Department approval.

SOWK 5306. Introduction to Trauma - Informed Care.

This course allows graduate students to apply advanced knowledge, theory, and direct practice skills with population experiencing complex trauma. The course emphasizes systemic, critical analysis of trauma practice using a psychosocial, strength-based framework. This is accomplished by demonstrating culturally competent skills in trauma informed care with regards to engagement, assessment, and facilitation of evidenced based practice. Students will examine knowledge, theories, and skills from the major models of counseling and therapy into a comprehensive, systematic, and develop advanced skills in analyzing research, generating knowledge, and applying the scientific process to planning, delivering, and evaluating clinical practices with population experiencing complex trauma.

SOWK 5308. Human Behavior in Individual and Family Social Environments.

This course examines individual and family dynamics across the lifespan using major theories and empirical research in human development. Students study how biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors contribute to varied patterns of behavior within varied social environments. The course emphasizes critical thinking, assessment skills, and the scholarly analysis of how different perspectives interpret human functioning. The course also addresses professional and ethical frameworks as objects of study, enabling students to evaluate how ideas related to varied populations and social contexts appear in academic and practice‑based literature.

SOWK 5309. HBSE & Global Environments.

This course examines human behavior in the social environment by analyzing families, groups, communities, organizations, and societies in local and global contexts. It analyzes the influence of social institutions and social structures on biopsychosocial and spiritual dimensions of development as conceptualized in social work theory. The course also examines how diasporic and transnational populations influence social institutions and structures in their countries of origin. Using developmental and ecosystems frameworks, students analyze population contexts and social and economic factors relevant to assessment and practice in global environments.

SOWK 5310. Social Welfare Policy and Services.

This course introduces students to the structure, development, and functioning of the United States social welfare system. Students examine major historical milestones, policy frameworks, and institutional processes that shape contemporary social welfare programs. The course emphasizes systematic analysis of how policies are formulated, implemented, and evaluated, and how these policies interact with the experiences of various population groups. Students will study multiple perspectives on policy debates, analyze empirical evidence, and apply professional standards relevant to social work practice. The course prepares students to understand policy as an object of academic inquiry and equips them with tools for objective, evidence‑based assessment.

SOWK 5312. Social Work Intervention in Drug Addiction & Abuse.

This course examines major categories of psychoactive substances and the biological, psychological, and social factors associated with substance use and addiction. Students analyze research related to individual, family, community, and societal impacts of substance use, along with the professional frameworks guiding assessment and intervention. The course surveys evidence‑based, culturally informed, and ethically grounded approaches used in prevention and treatment settings. Emphasis is placed on examining multiple intervention models rather than promoting any single method. Students develop beginning competencies for evaluating substance use concerns in diverse populations while exploring the policy, legal, and organizational contexts in which social workers practice.

SOWK 5313. Foundation Social Work Practice I.

This course introduces students to generalist social work theories and methods used in practice with individuals, families, and groups. Students examine approaches to data collection, assessment, intervention planning, and evaluation within a structured professional framework. The course emphasizes analytic reasoning, the application of evidence‑informed methods, and the development of skills used across practice settings. Learners study how theoretical models, practice processes, and professional standards guide decision‑making while adhering to a social work perspective. Through case examples, applied exercises, and structured reflection, students develop foundational competencies needed for subsequent graduate coursework and professional preparation.

SOWK 5314. Foundation Social Work Practice II.

This course examines generalist social work practice with task groups, organizations, and communities. Students develop foundational knowledge of macro practice models, organizational theory, and community organization processes. The course emphasizes skills in assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, and termination or transfer of macro‑level interventions. Students analyze case studies to explore the roles of ethics, law, and professional values in organizational and community practice contexts. The course also introduces the historical development of macro social work practice and its relationship to social policy. Upon completion, students will be prepared for advanced graduate study in social work practice across multiple system levels.

SOWK 5315. Social Work Intervention in Child Abuse & Neglect.

This course examines the structure, function, and practices of child welfare services for children who have experienced or are at risk of abuse or neglect. Students study how services are delivered in homes, substitute care, and community settings, focusing on the roles and responsibilities of social workers within interdisciplinary systems. The course analyzes theories, research, and policy frameworks relevant to child protection. Through case‑based learning, students explore assessment processes, service planning, and professional decision‑making, treating each approach as an object of study. Attention is given to various perspectives on child welfare challenges and to understanding how contextual factors influence children, families, and service systems.

SOWK 5316. Foundation Social Work Practice III.

This course develops students’ communication, interviewing, assessment, and planning skills used in generalist social work practice. Students learn methods for gathering information, formulating assessments, developing collaborative goals, and planning and evaluating interventions. Emphasis is placed on ethically sound practice, culturally informed perspectives, and strengths‑based engagement with clients. The course prepares students to communicate effectively with individuals, families, and other professionals across contexts. As the final practice course in the foundation curriculum, it supports students’ readiness for upper‑level practice by reinforcing core generalist competencies, professional judgment, and effective interpersonal skills appropriate for a wide range of client situations encountered in publicly supported service settings. Prerequisite: Department approval.

SOWK 5317. Social Work Research.

This course surveys foundational concepts in social work research and introduces students to the logic, methods, and standards of empirical inquiry. Students learn to read and interpret studies with attention to methodological quality, ethical considerations, and the applicability of findings to various practice settings. Core skills include framing researchable questions, analyzing study designs, and evaluating evidence without relying on predetermined assumptions. The course highlights how research contributes to knowledge development and practice evaluation while upholding students’ academic freedom to form their own conclusions about complex issues. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, clarity of reasoning, and responsible evidence use. Prerequisite: SOWK 5308 and SOWK 5313 both with grades of "B" or better.

SOWK 5322. Advanced Social Policy.

This course examines the development, implementation, and evaluation of social policies and their impacts on populations and service delivery systems. Students analyze historical and contemporary policy approaches, methods of policy analysis, and institutional, political, and economic factors that shape legislative and administrative decision making. Emphasis is placed on evidence informed assessment, professional reasoning, and systematic comparison of policy alternatives. The course introduces multiple analytical frameworks and encourages examination of differing perspectives on policy design, implementation, and outcomes, preparing students to critically assess policy effectiveness within varied social contexts. Prerequisite: Department approval.

SOWK 5323. Advanced Social Work Research.

This course examines advanced quantitative, qualitative, and community‑based participatory research methods used in social work. Students study how research frameworks inform the evaluation of programs, policies, and practice with individuals, families, and communities. The course emphasizes ethical research design, analysis of methodological strengths and limitations, and approaches for minimizing bias when working with varied populations and settings. Through applied examples, students learn how research contributes to assessment, intervention development, and organizational decision‑making. Students use evidence‑informed tools to evaluate practice and explore how research methods shape professional reasoning across varied contexts. Prerequisite: Departmental approval.

SOWK 5328. Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Aging.

This course provides a graduate‑level, interdisciplinary examination of aging, drawing on biophysical, psychosocial, and environmental perspectives. Students analyze factors influencing the experience of aging and examine how individuals, families, institutions, and societies respond to later life. The course introduces evidence‑informed approaches to interacting with, assessing, and supporting older adults across professional contexts. Students also examine social policies affecting older adults, with attention to their historical development, intended goals, and documented outcomes. Through integration of theory, research, and applied activities, students develop analytical and professional competencies relevant to work with aging populations in a variety of disciplines.

SOWK 5330. Comparative Social Work Ethics for Education Abroad.

This course is to assist the student in expanding an intermediate level of knowledge, values, and skills in the area of ethics in social work. The student’s learning will be enhanced by comparing the NASW Code of Ethics and the Code of Ethics in the host country and/or the Statement of Ethical Principles of the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) in various historical contexts, during the Education Abroad program. By viewing ethics through a global lens, students will be able to explore how culture and historical factors impact the development of ethical standards. Prerequisite: Departmental Approval.

SOWK 5331. Social Work During the Education Abroad Experience.

This course examines social work processes and social service provision within a designated host country. Students study the organization, delivery mechanisms, and regulatory frameworks of social services serving varied populations, using comparative and experiential learning approaches. Through agency visits, structured observations, and guided research activities, students analyze similarities and differences between international social service systems and those in the United States. The course emphasizes systematic comparison, institutional analysis, and professional role identification across varied social, legal, and organizational contexts. Attention is given to how historical, cultural, and policy factors shape service delivery within the host country.

SOWK 5332. Military Personnel, Veterans, and Families: Challenges, Systems, and Supports.

This course examines, through theoretical, empirical, and policy frameworks, the experiences of military personnel, veterans, and their families during and after military service. Particular attention is given to processes of reintegration into family, community, and institutional settings. Students analyze the roles of social work and other helping professions within systems of care serving military connected populations. The course explores evidence informed models of practice, organizational contexts, and interdisciplinary collaboration across healthcare, education, nonprofit, and governmental sectors. Emphasis is placed on understanding service delivery structures, professional responsibilities, and research based approaches relevant to military connected individuals and families.

SOWK 5335. International Social Work.

This course provides a graduate level overview of international social work, examining historical and contemporary theories, practice models, and professional roles across a variety of global contexts. Students analyze social, economic, and political factors influencing social work practice with varied populations and contexts, including across a variety of economic conditions. An emphasis is placed on comparative analysis, research informed practice, and the examination of professional standards within different sociopolitical environments to assess how social work is implemented across global conditions. Prerequisite: Departmental Approval.

SOWK 5336. Social Work Practice in the Criminal Legal System.

This course explores an integrated approach to social work practice in the criminal justice system. It provides a comprehensive framework of knowledge and skills necessary for effective and ethical practice and service delivery when serving clients and communities impacted directly and indirectly by the criminal justice system. Students learn the process of developing an individualized professional model of potential practice in this field. This course focuses on the specialized practice of Police Social Work and incorporates content on behavioral and mental health issues that require a higher level of expertise than generalist social work practice.

SOWK 5360. Directed Study in Social Work.

This course provides an opportunity for individualized graduate‑level study in social work through directed readings, independent research, and faculty‑guided projects. Enrollment is by invitation of the faculty member and with approval of the MSW Coordinator. The student and instructor collaboratively determine a focused area of inquiry and an academic deliverable that demonstrates knowledge gained through the course. Emphasis is placed on advancing understanding of social work practice, theory, or research aligned with the faculty member’s area of expertise. This course may not be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Departmental approval.

SOWK 5370. Advanced Program Planning and Grant-Based Resource Development.

This course examines advanced approaches to program planning and resource development in nonprofit and public human service organizations. Students explore strategies for identifying organizational needs, establishing priorities, and assessing potential funding sources. The course emphasizes the evaluation of grant opportunities and the development of competitive proposals that align with agency goals. Learners study the processes used to design programs, construct budgets, and articulate implementation plans while applying evidence‑based reasoning to support decision‑making. Through applied assignments, students gain experience interpreting requests for proposals, analyzing funding criteria, and preparing components of grant applications. By focusing on analytical and professional skills, the course prepares students to participate effectively in organizational planning and resource acquisition. Prerequisite: Departmental approval.

SOWK 5371. Advanced Assessment, Leadership, and Supervision in Social Service Organizations.

This course examines organizational functioning in social service organizations through the analysis of assessment, leadership, and supervisory practices. Using observational and interview-based inquiry methods, students analyze organizational processes related to change, strategic planning, management, ethical decision-making, budgeting, and implementation of action plans. The course also examines supervisory strategies for addressing workplace dilemmas, including personnel management, communication, and conflict resolution, through the application of evidence-based management frameworks and analysis of case studies. Prerequisite: Departmental approval.

SOWK 5372. Advanced Diagnostic Assessment and Intervention with Individuals.

This course provides an in depth study of theoretical, diagnostic, and intervention approaches relevant to advanced social work practice with individuals. Students evaluate the foundations of diagnostic systems, examine evidence supporting various intervention models, and analyze the implications of assessment choices for client outcomes. Cultural, environmental, and contextual factors are presented as components of comprehensive assessment, allowing students to examine these influences. Through applied exercises, students integrate research and professional standards into systematic approaches to practice. Prerequisite: Departmental approval.

SOWK 5373. Advanced Intervention with Families and Groups.

This course provides an in depth study of systemic theories, assessment tools, and intervention processes used in professional practice with families and groups. Students examine contemporary research, analyze established practice models, and evaluate factors that influence professional decision making across practice settings. Through applied exercises and case based analysis, the course develops advanced skills for integrating research findings, theoretical frameworks, and structured intervention planning. Emphasis is placed on the application of evidence informed approaches within organizational and community environments while maintaining professional and ethical standards. Prerequisite: Departmental approval.

SOWK 5376. Foundation Field Integrative Seminar I.

This course provides an integrative seminar for students completing foundation field education in generalist social work practice. Students examine how micro, mezzo, and macro frameworks inform practice decisions across varied service settings. The course emphasizes the study of professional competencies, ethical standards, and the processes that guide professional development. Students analyze case examples, discuss observations from their field placements, and explore evidence‑informed approaches used in contemporary social service agencies. The seminar structure supports students in connecting field experiences with academic content, strengthening their ability to reflect critically, communicate professionally, and understand the broader context of the social work profession. Prerequisite: SOWK 5313 and SOWK 5314 both with grades of "B" or better. Corequisite: SOWK 5111 or SOWK 5577 with a grade of "CR".

SOWK 5378. Advanced Field Practicum I.

This course is taken in conjunction with SOWK 5979 as part of the advanced practicum sequence for full-time students. This course provides opportunities for students to apply and critically examine social work knowledge gained in core classes while completing an advanced internship in a social service agency under the supervision of a professional social worker. Through seminar discussion, structured reflection, and applied learning, students study how complex societal issues relate to agency practice and examine the use of advanced social work theories and practice frameworks in professional settings. Students integrate practicum experiences with coursework to support the development of professional competence across multiple dimensions of social work practice. Prerequisites: SOWK 5370 and SOWK 5371 and SOWK 5372 and SOWK 5373 all with grades of "B" or better and a minimum 3.0 Overall GPA. Corequisite: SOWK 5379 or SOWK 5979 with a grade of "CR".

SOWK 5379. Advanced Part-Time Field Practicum I.

This course is taken in conjunction with SOWK 5378 as the first part of the advanced practicum sequence for part-time students. It requires the completion of an internship in a social service agency under the supervision of a professional social worker. The advanced practicum emphasizes the application and analysis of specialized practice skills with individuals, families, groups, and communities using micro, mezzo, and macro-level knowledge and proficiencies. Students apply social work theories and practice models to analyze complex societal issues encountered in field settings. Prerequisite: SOWK 5370 and SOWK 5371 and SOWK 5372 and SOWK 5373 all with grades of "B" or better and a minimum 3.0 Overall GPA. Corequisite: SOWK 5378 with a grade of "B" or better.

SOWK 5411. Foundation Part-Time Field Practicum II.

This course provides supervised experiential learning in social service settings where students apply foundational micro, mezzo, and macro practice concepts when working with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Students integrate concepts from the online seminar while engaging in structured learning activities within a human service agency. The practicum focuses on integrating classroom knowledge with real‑world responsibilities by applying evidence-informed approaches, engaging in structured supervision, developing professional skills, and examining how organizational contexts shape practice decisions. This course is the second part of the part-time foundation field sequence and is completed only by students enrolled in part-time study. Prerequisites: SOWK 5376 with a grade of "B" or better and SOWK 5111 with a grade of "CR".

SOWK 5577. Foundation Full-Time Field Practicum II.

This course provides supervised experiential learning in social service settings where students apply foundational micro, mezzo, and macro practice concepts when working with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Students integrate concepts from the companion seminar while engaging in structured learning activities within a human service agency. The practicum focuses on integrating classroom knowledge with real‑world responsibilities by applying evidence-informed approaches, engaging in structured supervision, developing professional skills, and examining how organizational contexts shape practice decisions. This course is part of the full-time foundation field sequence and is completed only by students enrolled in full‑time study. Prerequisite: SOWK 5313 and SOWK 5314 both with grades of "B" or better. Corequisite: SOWK 5376 with a grade of "B" or better.

SOWK 5679. Advanced Part-Time Field Practicum II.

This course provides the second half of the advanced practicum sequence for part‑time students in an approved social service agency. Students build on prior field experience by applying specialized practice skills with individuals, families, groups, and communities. The course emphasizes the use of micro‑, mezzo‑, and macro‑level knowledge to examine practice situations and evaluate professional actions. Students draw on social work theories and practice models as tools for analyzing the complex issues encountered in agency settings, maintaining an inquiry‑based approach to skill development and reflection. Prerequisite: SOWK 5378 with a grade of "B" or better and SOWK 5379 with a grade of "Credit" and a minimum 3.0 Overall GPA.

SOWK 5979. Advanced Field Practicum II.

This course is taken in conjunction with SOWK 5378 as part of the advanced practicum sequence for full-time students. It requires the completion of a supervised internship in a social service agency under the guidance of a professional social worker. The course emphasizes the application and analysis of specialized practice skills with individuals, families, groups, and communities across micro, mezzo, and macro practice levels. Students engage with social work theories and practice models to examine professional tasks, evaluate practice decisions, and assess challenges that arise in field settings. The practicum supports the development of professional competence through supervised experiential learning and encourages students to apply discipline‑based reasoning to diverse agency contexts. Prerequisite: SOWK 5370 and SOWK 5371 and SOWK 5372 and SOWK 5373 all with grades of "B" or better and a minimum 3.0 Overall GPA. Corequisite: SOWK 5378 with a grade of "B" or better.