Social Work (SWRK)
SWRK 1000 - Introduction to Social Work
3 Credits
This course provides an overview of the social work profession, including values, history, fields of practice, social welfare and social justice issues, and vulnerable populations. Current controversies, future trends, and career opportunities are also explored.
Attributes: Service Leadership Social Just, UUC:Dignity, Ethics & Just Soc, UUC:Social & Behavioral Sci
SWRK 2300 - Human Behavior Social Environment
3 Credits
In this course, students will critically engage with basic concepts, theories, and empirical findings about human behavior across multiple systems, considering the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of human behavior and experience.
Attributes: Public Health Major Elective, UUC:Social & Behavioral Sci
SWRK 3100 - Social Policy for Social Justice
3 Credits
The study of social policy and its resulting social welfare system is viewed as an examination of the choices a society makes to satisfy human needs, pursue social justice, and achieve human goals. This course examines social policy in the context of its historical development and current functions in contemporary society and introduces students to the relationship between social policy and social work practice. The course examines the substance of policy choices, the values and beliefs that underlie these choices, and the potential roles of social workers in that process.
Attributes: BHS-Professional, Service Leadership Social Just, UUC:Dignity, Ethics & Just Soc, Urban Poverty - Cycles Exclusn
SWRK 3200 - Dismantling Oppression: Exploring Equity & Inclusion
3 Credits
The course examines social justice activities that seek to expose barriers to the realization of a more equal and just society. The focus is on differences and similarities in the experiences, needs, and beliefs of people and includes perspectives on discrimination and oppression based on race, gender, class, age, sexual orientation, ethnicity, mental and physical disability, and/or spiritual orientation. This course focuses on human diversity within the context of anti-oppressive frameworks in social work. The course also addresses how group membership affects access to resources, services, and opportunities and relates to risk factors for specific population groups.
Attributes: African American Studies, BHS-Professional, Service Leadership Social Just, Social Science Req (A&S), UUC:Identities in Context, Urban Poverty - Cycles Exclusn, WGST Elective
SWRK 3300 - Social Work Practice with Individuals
3 Credits
This is the first of four courses in the practice sequence, in which students are introduced to the competencies relevant to generalist social work practice and oral and written communication skills. Using the individual as the client system, this course provides a foundation in skills, theories and methods of generalist practice that can be built upon in the other practice courses. This course will also emphasize interviewing, engagement, assessment, intervention, evaluation, and termination.
Restrictions:
Students with a classification of Freshman may not enroll.
SWRK 3350 - Social Work Practice with Groups
3 Credits
This course focuses on the core knowledge, values, and skills for planning, implementing, and evaluating groups in generalist social work practice. Particular attention is given to groups serving diverse client systems and populations-at-risk. This is the second course in a four-course sequence on theories and methods of generalist social work practice. The course uses a systems framework that integrates several group social work theories and perspectives. It addresses the need for beginning generalist social workers to promote social justice and to be knowledgeable about human behavior and the social environment, as well as policy and research related to effective group work. *Concurrent enrollment in SWRK 3300 is allowed.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 3300
Restrictions:
Students with a classification of Freshman may not enroll.
SWRK 3440 - Social Work Practice with Families
3 Credits
Building on the skills developed in SWRK 3300: Social Work Practice with Individuals, SWRK 3440: Social Work Practice with Families focuses on expanding those skills to work with families. Specific theories and interventions related to families will be discussed. This course introduces students to competencies relevant to a generalist perspective, using a systems framework for social work practice with families. Core knowledge of values and skills related to assessment, intervention, evaluation, and termination, with an emphasis on the social justice concerns of families, will be covered.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 3300
SWRK 3500 - Social Work Practice with Organizations & Communities
3 Credits
The course uses a generalist practice perspective on values, knowledge, and skills within a systems framework for planned change, with a particular focus on work with populations of special concern to social work. Groups experiencing social and economic injustices based on racial, ethnic, socio-cultural, and gender characteristics are emphasized. Students will learn skills for maintaining and influencing organizations, community organizing, and community development.
Prerequisite(s): Minimum Earned Credits of 60
SWRK 3600 - Financial Capability and Asset Building Practice
3 Credits
The course provides an introduction to the field of financial capability and asset-building practice. Financial capability and asset-building practice includes content on poverty, personal household finance, financial access, and related economic concepts. Discussion focuses on economic and financial concepts as they relate to individuals and families across the life cycle and to communities, with special attention to oppressed populations and communities experiencing poverty and near-poverty. Social policy and policy change efforts related to these areas are also examined. *Concurrent enrollment in CORE 1500 is allowed.
Prerequisite(s): Minimum Earned Credits of 60; CORE 1000; CORE 1500*
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Restrictions:
Enrollment is limited to students with a program in Social Work.
Attributes: UUC:Collaborative Inquiry
SWRK 3700 - Research Methods for a Diverse Society
3 Credits
This course is designed to provide students with the generalist knowledge and skills necessary to conduct real-world research with multiple populations across diverse settings. Special emphasis will be placed on rigorous research into a range of social and psychological adversities (including violence, poverty, disability, racism, sexism, and heterosexism) and on feasible evaluation of policies and practices to alleviate these adversities in a variety of fields (social work, healthcare, education, and community mental health). The course will focus on conducting ethical, culturally sensitive research with a variety of vulnerable populations in the United States.
Prerequisite(s): Minimum Earned Credits of 60
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Junior or Senior.
Attributes: UUC:Social & Behavioral Sci
SWRK 4100 - Social Work Practicum I
5 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
Students will be assigned responsibility for work with individuals, groups, and communities in various social work sites under professional supervision. This practicum consists of 240 hours in the field supervised by a qualified professional that meets the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) requirements. *Concurrent enrollment in CORE 1500 is allowed.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 3300, SWRK 3440, or SWRK 3500); SWRK 1000; CORE 1500*; CORE 1000
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Corequisite(s): SWRK 4150
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Junior or Senior.
Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Social Work.
Attributes: UUC:Reflection-in-Action
SWRK 4150 - Integrative Practice Seminar I
1 Credit
This seminar is designed to facilitate the integration of social work course content with the anticipated job demands of social work practice. It will address some of the practical questions and problems students face during their practicum placements. *Concurrent enrollment in CORE 1500 is allowed.
Prerequisite(s): CORE 1000; CORE 1500*
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Corequisite(s): SWRK 4100
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Junior or Senior.
Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Social Work.
Attributes: UUC:Reflection-in-Action
SWRK 4200 - Social Work Practicum II
5 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
Students will be assigned responsibility for work with individuals, groups, and communities in various social work sites under professional supervision. This course is a continuation of SWRK 4100 and consists of 240 hours in the field supervised by a qualified professional that meets the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) requirements.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 4100; CORE 1500*; SWRK 4150; CORE 1000
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Corequisite(s): SWRK 4250
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Senior.
Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Social Work.
Attributes: UUC:Reflection-in-Action
SWRK 4250 - Integrative Practice Seminar II
1 Credit
Continuation of SWRK 4150.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 4100; SWRK 4150; CORE 1000; CORE 1500*
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Corequisite(s): SWRK 4200
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a classification of Senior.
Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Social Work.
Attributes: UUC:Reflection-in-Action
SWRK 5001 - Supervision and Organizational Behavior Management
3 Credits
This course builds upon the basic principles of learning and applied behavior analysis presented during previous courses in the Applied Behavior Analysis program curriculum. This course develops students understanding of evidenced-based strategies for supervision, organizational behavior management, group contingencies and meta-contingencies, and influencing behavioral change of employees and staff working with clients/consumers of behavior analytic services. Course content supports the social work value of social justice, as it relates to provisions of professional services to persons with disabilities.
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5002 - Philosophy of Behavioral Science
3 Credits
This course builds upon the basic principles of learning and applied behavior analysis presented during previous courses in the Applied Behavior Analysis curriculum. This course will highlight the philosophical underpinnings of behavioral science, including Radical Behaviorism, and how the application of such theoretical principles can impact individuals, groups, and macro-level social systems (e.g., government, religious institutions, etc). Concomitantly, the course will focus on verbal behavior and derived relational responding across phylogenic, ontogenetic, and cultural levels of analyses. The goal of the course is to refine students’ conceptual knowledge of the science of human behavior generally, and as it relates to aspects of social systems (including verbal behavior). At the end of the course, students will be able to demonstrate understanding of Radical Behaviorism, behavioral approaches to verbal behavior, and how behavioral science can address societal problems.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5746 with a grade of C or higher
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5320 - Sentencing Mitigation
3 Credits
This interdisciplinary class, comprised of both law and social work students, explores the role of sentencing advocacy in state and federal sentencing systems, the factors that influence its quality, and the insights from social scientists that can critique and improve it. The class will introduce the students to several guest speakers (defense lawyers, prosecutors, judges, social scientists and mitigation specialists) who will put the role and quality of sentencing advocacy in perspective. Most significantly, students will learn themselves, through hands-on involvement in actual cases, how to strategize, research, and develop an effective sentencing memorandum.
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5700 - Values & Ethics in Social Work
3 Credits
This course is a comprehensive review of the values and ethical dimensions of social work practice.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: MPH-Public Health Practice, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5701 - Topics in Social Justice
3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
This course is designed to help students understand the meaning of social justice and community building, within the context of social work practice. Based on social work's historical mission of intervention in high-risk communities while advocating for social reform, this course is aimed at teaching students the history, theory and practice realities of community building locally and globally through discussion, research, and exploration. The norms and values that support the characteristics of a just society will be stressed. Students will learn to compare and contrast current social and economic conditions with the values and norms underlying a just society as a structure for critically analyzing situations. Students will gain knowledge of models and procedures for community organizing for social justice. Learning will take place as we focus on groups experiencing social and economic injustices based on racial, ethnic, socio-cultural, gender, and other characteristics.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
SWRK 5702 - Social Policy
3 Credits
This course focuses on social policy within the context of its historical development and its current functions within contemporary society. It examines the substance of policy choices, the values and beliefs that underlie these choices, the political process through which the choices are made, and the potential roles of social workers in that process.
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, MPH-Public Health Practice, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5703 - International Social Work
1-3 Credits (Repeatable up to 12 credits)
The course involves an in-depth examination of global, social, and economic issues of development; and explores the agencies, elements, and patterns of responses used to address hunger, health care, education and other issues impacting the people of developing countries.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
SWRK 5705 - Practice in Global Issues
3 Credits
This course is designed to provide students with a working foundation for social work and public health practice in a global context. It is intended for students preparing to go on their international practicum or internship or those who are interested in working in a country other than their own. While this course is not intended to be a prerequisite for SWRK 5703, it is highly encouraged.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5706 - Antiracism and Social Work Practice
3 Credits
In this course students will integrate social justice theory and practice towards developing a culturally affirming, inclusive, antiracist approach to social work. Students will critically explore how race, racism and white supremacy continues to impact and shape U.S. policy, health, institutions, systems, culture, beliefs and the social work profession. Students will explore and critically examine their own racial identity and socialization in order to understand how race and racism has impacted their attitudes, beliefs, values, biases and actions. Students will also gain competence in implementing inclusive, affirming and antiracist social work practices at the interpersonal, organizational, community and system levels.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher
SWRK 5707 - Policy Practice for Social Justice
3 Credits
In this course, students will gain leadership skills to effectively advocate for social policy and economic justice. Course content will prepare students to use a range of tools and skills to effectively change or enhance societal structures. Social work skills in policy practice with oppressed and vulnerable groups will be explored in the student’s area of concentration.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, MPH-Global Health, MPH-Health Management & Policy, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5708 - Research and Evaluation in Social Work Practice
3 Credits
This course is designed to equip social work students with needed research literacy, knowledge and skills to engage in ethical and evidence-informed social work practice and evaluate programs. Through a social justice framework, students will build skills in locating, critically reviewing and using research to prepare for their professional roles as critical consumers of research to inform practice and program decisions. Students will be prepared to participate in a range of research activities including (a) conceptualization of research problems; (b) review of the literature; (c) evaluation of research design; (d) sampling; (e) selection of measurement tools; (f) data collection; (g) interpretation of data analyses and (h) ethical considerations in the conduct of research. Students will learn to identify and apply evaluation methods and use theoretical and conceptual models to develop a proposal for a practice or program evaluation.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher
SWRK 5714 - Interprofessional Perspectives in Geriatric Care
3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
Interprofessional approaches that address the medical, social, instrumental, and functional issues and needs of older adults will be examined. Information about interprofessional geriatric practice and social issues affecting the well-being of older adults will be provided. Clinical, theoretical, and educational perspectives will be presented by interprofessional faculty and professionals with expertise in geriatric assessment and intervention. Students will attend three synchronous meetings on Zoom, and the SLU Family Center for Healthy Aging Summer Conference offered the first Friday and Saturday in June. (Offered in Summer).
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5715 - Practice with Families & Communities Experiencing Poverty
3 Credits
This course is designed to examine the needs of families and communities of all sizes that are struggling with poverty. A variety of poverty reduction models are examined to develop an understanding of multilevel assessment and practice interventions focused on empowering families and communities. Patterns of social and economic injustices that result in the inequitable distribution of resources and opportunities are also examined.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5721 - Community Theory & Practice
3 Credits
In this course, students gain advanced knowledge and skills for community practice. Course content focuses on theories of community and social systems as well as practice theories emphasizing social change, empowerment, and promotion of social and economic justice for culturally diverse and at-risk communities. The roles of community organizer, community developer, and social planner are emphasized in this course.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5722 - Supervision and Management in Health and Human Service Organizations
3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
This course develops the knowledge, values, skills, and critical thinking processes necessary for anticipating leadership and supervision opportunities in health and social service organizations. Students will critically analyze what is involved in management and administrative supervision as well as in providing ongoing reflective supervision to other clinicians. Key components of this course include how to create and shape spaces for supervision and reflective practice as well as using theory and putting theory into practice in administrative, clinical, and reflective supervision. Students will explore best practices for new, interim, or recently promoted supervisors as well as ways and approaches to institutionalize best practices across administrative, clinical, and reflective supervision.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher
SWRK 5725 - Human Behavior & the Social Environment
3 Credits
This course is an introduction to theories, knowledge, and perspectives which explain the behavior of individuals and social systems. The theories are the basis of social work practice.
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, MPH-Health Management & Policy, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5733 - Advanced Clinical Practice with Individuals
3 Credits
This course builds on the generalist practice course (SWRK 5750) and provides students with the theories and practice skills needed to work with individuals from an advanced generalist perspective. Emphasis is placed on applying principles of evidence informed practice in assessment, treatment planning, and selecting and evaluating interventions with individuals. Special attention is given to identifying and being responsive to cultural complexities in social work practice with diverse populations, calling attention to diverse cultural influences while simultaneously recognizing the unique ways in which the mix of these influences affect individuals, including the social work practitioner.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5736 - Advanced Clinical Practice with Families and Groups
3 Credits
Building on the generalist courses and the course on practice with individuals, families and groups, this course is designed to provide students with advanced generalist theories, knowledge, values, and skills for evidence-informed practice with families and groups in a variety of settings and with diverse populations. Students will develop, analyze, integrate and apply research evidence, diverse theories and practice skills related to assessment, treatment planning, intervention, evaluation and termination. Special emphasis on the establishment of professional relationships characterized by mutuality, collaboration, and respect as well as ethical and social justice concerns will be highlighted throughout the course.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
SWRK 5742 - Evidence Based Practices in Community Mental Health
3 Credits
This course focuses on a person-centered, recovery-oriented and evidence-based framework for social work practice with individuals diagnosed with psychiatric disabilities and/or substance use disorders. Students develop skills in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning and intervention of major psychiatric and substance use disorders. The nature and diagnosis of psychopathology and the ethical integration of the DSM into clinical social work practice is critically analyzed. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the complex nature of co-occurring medical, mental health and substance use disorders and in the integration of a range of evidence-based interventions in the area of mental health and substance use practice.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5744 - Substance Use Disorder Interventions
3 Credits
The overall goal of the course is to increase student knowledge about alcohol and drug abuse/dependency and the recovery process. This course surveys the theoretical, practice, policy, and research literature that deal with the etiology, dynamics, treatment, and prevention of substance use disorders in contemporary U.S. society. The view conveyed in this course is that substance use and abuse, its causes, its effects, and its remedies are extremely broad, systemic, multi-level, and multivariate.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: CCJ Major Electives, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5745 - Health & Mental Health Interventions with Older Adults
3 Credits
This course explores skills and competencies needed to effectively work with older adults and their families. It provides an overview of health and mental health issues with an emphasis on holistic and systemic assessments and social work practice interventions. The environmental, psychosocial, biological and spiritual influences on health and mental health are highlighted. Clinical, programmatic and policy interventions known to promote healthy behaviors are discussed. Attention is paid to social justice, ethics and the law, particularly as it relates to economic deprivation and oppression leading to the inequitable distribution of health services to older adults.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5746 - Principles & Concepts in Applied Behavior Analysis
3 Credits
This course familiarizes students with the fundamental concepts and principles and philosophical assumptions of behavior analysis as well as the basic concepts of operant and respondent conditioning. Students review some of the basic laboratory research that has illuminated the principles of behavior. The material covered contributes to prepare students to work in the field of behavior analysis and related fields for board certification in Applied Behavior Analysis. Course content supports the social work value of social justice to provide professional services to persons with disabilities.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5747 - Behavioral Assessment
3 Credits
This is a graduate course that will develop student’s basic knowledge about behavioral assessment methods and intervention selection in the field of applied behavior analysis. This course will review some of the basic assumptions and characteristics that define the field. The material covered in this course will prepare students working in the field of behavior analysis/related field and for board certification in applied behavior analysis. Course content supports the social work value of social justice to provide professional services to all individuals requiring behavioral interventions.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLM2 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLM1 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLM3 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLM4 with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5748 - Behavior Change & Process
3 Credits
This course expands students’ basic knowledge with respect to behavior analysis fundamental concepts and principles and philosophical assumptions including the basic behavioral principles of operant and respondent conditioning. This course develops students working understanding of the use of these principles in behavior change strategies and interventions in the field of applied behavior analysis. Students review some of the fundamental applied literature that demonstrates the efficacy of behavioral strategies and that continue to define the field. The material covered prepares students for work in the field of behavior analysis/related field and for board certification in Applied Behavior Analysis. Course content supports the social work value of social justice to provide professional services to persons with disabilities.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5746 with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5749 - Ethics in Behavior Analysis
3 Credits
This course will familiarize students with the ethical issues confronting those working as behavior analysts. Students will learn the ethical responsibilities inherent to working in their chosen field by exploring the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts as well as other relevant fields’ codes of ethics. Students will also explore issues of social justice and inequities that currently exist within the field of behavior analysis. They will explore their own biases and how these can influence their decision making when working with clients. The ethical standards in this course will prepare students working in the field of behavior analysis and prepare them for board certification in Applied Behavior Analysis.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5746 with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5750 - Social Work Practice with Individuals, Families, & Groups
3 Credits
This course prepares students to apply a generalist perspective and systems framework to direct social work practice with individuals, families, and groups. This course emphasizes the basics of communication, interviewing, relationship building, and professional use of self, skills essential to effective social work assessment, intervention and evaluation. Theories and practice skills related to social work with individuals, families, and groups will be the primary focus.
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5751 - Social Work Practice with Communities & Organizations
3 Credits
This course prepares students to apply a generalist perspective and systems framework to social work practice with communities and organizations as well as task/problem-solving groups within larger systems and settings.
Attributes: MPH-Behavior Sci & Health Equi, MPH-Epidemiology, MPH-Health Management & Policy, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5752 - Co-Occurring Disorder Counseling
3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
Students in this course will achieve competence in the theory and techniques of assessment and stage-appropriate treatment of persons with substance use and co-occurring disorders.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5755 - Social Work Practice in the Health Field
3 Credits
This course provides the framework for social work practice in the health care field. This course will cover the array of social work practice approaches and nature of interdisciplinary practice in various health settings such as clinics, hospice, skilled nursing care, and hospitals.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5760 - Behavioral Interventions with Children & Adolescents
3 Credits
Using a systems framework, viewing the child in environment, this course teaches students behavioral learning theories for work with children who have a wide range of challenging behaviors. These practice skills are essential for working with children in schools, residential treatment, juvenile justice system, foster care, outpatient psychiatric case management, etc. Students will learn to educate, consult, and collaborate with families and/or caregivers in the use of these methods.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLM2 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLM1 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLM3 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLM4 with a minimum score of S)
SWRK 5761 - Evidence-Based Practice with Children & Youth
3 Credits
This advanced clinical practice course in the Clinical Concentration builds upon the generalist course and prepares students for direct social work practice with children and youth across child serving, behavioral health and integrated settings.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5762 - Diagnosis & Assessment in Clinical Practice
3 Credits
This course is designed to assist in the development of skills related to the diagnosis and assessment of psychopathology. Issues related to the etiology of psychopathology and the historical construction and development of diagnostic categories will be assessed. Special emphasis will be placed on the exploration, understanding and critical analysis of the nature and diagnosis of psychopathology and the integration of the DSM-IV-TR into clinical social work practice. While students will develop skills in the ethical use of the DSM-IV-TR in their practice, they will at the same time critically analyze the nature of clinical diagnosis as it relates to issues of gender, culture, age, sexual orientation, political power and socioeconomic status. Ethical issues to the integration of the DSM-IV-TR will be explored and the relationship between psychiatry and social work will be analyzed. Students will be challenged develop solutions to the paradigmatic and ethical dilemmas associated with the use.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: MPH-Health Management & Policy, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5771 - Intimate Partner Violence
3 Credits
The focus of the course is on ways to reduce the incidence and impact of intimate partner violence. Students address and examine the theoretical understandings for violence against women and other intimate partner violence as well as the need for direct services, community organizing, and public policy changes that will help end intimate partner violence.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: MA CCJ Elective
SWRK 5772 - Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Social Work Practice
3 Credits
Students in this course will learn basic knowledge and skills of cognitive-behavior therapy as they relate to stage-appropriate assessment and treatment of persons with co-occurring mental illness and substance use issues. These skills will include developing a therapeutic alliance, problem formulation, assessment of maladaptive thoughts and schemas, cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, development of various coping skills and relapse prevention. Students will learn how to integrate other treatment approaches such as harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness with cognitive-behavioral approaches in order to assist people to achieve and maintain therapeutic goals.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5773 - Approaches to Trauma Care
3 Credits
This is an introduction to the study of trauma ranging from violence, natural disasters, child abuse and other forms of traumatic experience and its impact on client populations served in the field of social work. The implications of trauma are explored through various theoretical frameworks and assessment practices that address the biological, psychological, sociological and spiritual effects on individuals, families and communities. Theories and models of crisis intervention are presented, as well as their application in clinical practice with survivors of violent events and natural disasters. Students also examine and develop skills necessary to utilize evidence- based treatments with specific populations.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5774 - Research Methods for Everyday Practice
3 Credits
This course develops students basic knowledge related to single subject research design, measurement and application of the empirical approach to evaluation of effectiveness of interventions in the field of applied behavior analysis. Students review some of the basic assumptions and characteristics that define the field. The material covered prepares students for work in the field of behavior analysis/related field and for board certification in Applied Behavior Analysis. Course content supports the social work value of social justice to provide professional services to persons with disabilities.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5746 with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5775 - Advanced Social Work Practice in Trauma with Children & Youth
3 Credits
This course facilitates students’ acquisition of the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to effectively use 12 common trauma-informed practice elements in interventions for and the treatment of traumatized children and their families. The course highlights consideration of the impact of trauma, intervention objectives, and the practice elements needed to accomplish the intervention objectives. This course is taught using an inquiry-based learning (IBL) pedagogy to enhance students’ engagement and learning using full-length cases that exemplify the diverse clients a clinician might encounter in practice.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
SWRK 5777 - Clinical Approaches to Practice with Couples and Families
3 Credits
This course is designed to help you develop knowledge and skills about various approaches to family and couples practice from a social work perspective. An examination of the basic theoretical assumptions underlying family systems approaches and the practice principles that evolved from them is offered. An exploration of evidence-based practices and the application of these practices with various populations will be a focus of this course. An important aspect of the course is a consideration of the ramifications for social justice and other social work values and ethics from a family systems perspective.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
SWRK 5778 - Motivational Interviewing
3 Credits
Students in this course will learn the theory and skills of motivational interviewing as they relate to stage-appropriate assessment and treatment of persons with co-occurring health, mental health and substance use issues. These skills will include: (1) using empathy and the skills of open ended questioning, affirmation, reflective listening and summarizing to develop discrepancies between behaviors and goals; (2) rolling with resistance; (3) eliciting, recognizing and reinforcing change talk; and (4) negotiating a change plan. Students will learn how to integrate motivational interviewing with assessment and treatment planning skills as well as other relevant interventions such as harm reduction, medication, and cognitive-behavioral approaches in order to assist people in achieving and maintaining therapeutic goals.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
SWRK 5785 - Organizational & Program Planning
3 Credits
In this course, students are introduced to the basic conceptual and methodological principles and skills necessary for planning practice in human service organizations. Students examine the role of strategic and operational planning in charting the future of a well-run, human service organization. They acquire an appreciation for and critical perspective on the interconnectedness of organization and environment, anticipating trends, considering social change, needs and social problems, and planning for resource utilization, programmatic response and assessing program impact. Particular attention is given to the essential elements of designing a response to be used in requests for proposals and grant applications.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: MPH-Health Management & Policy, MPH-Public Health Practice, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5786 - Death, Dying, & Grief: Professional Practice & Self-Awareness
3 Credits
This course explores the physical, psychological, spiritual, emotional, and sociocultural concerns typically encountered by clients and families confronted with dying, death, and grief. Course content will include personal death awareness, the integration of theoretical perspectives, and evidence-based practice interventions. Throughout this course, students will be encouraged to examine their own values and attitudes concerning issues related to death and grief and how these will impact their professional practice.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: MA CCJ Elective, Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5798 - Introduction to Non-Profit Organization Management
3 Credits
This course examines the roles of the nonprofit sector and nonprofit organizations in contemporary society. The role of nonprofit organizations as vehicles for citizen participation and as commercial enterprises will be highlighted. The challenges facing nonprofit organizations in contemporary society will also be analyzed.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5808 - Social Work, Education, & Individuals with Exceptionality
3 Credits
This course provides the student with a working knowledge of the learning, psychological, cognitive and social characteristics of youth and children with exceptionality. Current methods of practice within the educational setting, interventions, strategies, and modifications for use within the general education classroom are examined.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
SWRK 5819 - Generalist Integrative Practice Seminar
1 Credit (Repeatable for credit)
This seminar is designed to provide opportunities for students to integrate foundational knowledge and apply a generalist perspective of social work theories, methods, values, and ethics within their practicum experiences. Additionally, the seminar will focus on maximizing learning experiences in the student’s practicum and in gaining knowledge of other target populations and social service settings. Students will gain skills in peer consultation and support, case presentation, researching for practice-based literature, and in approaching various practicum challenges.
Prerequisite(s): ((SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLM2 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLM3 with a minimum score of S))
SWRK 5820 - Specialization Integrative Seminar
1 Credit
This seminar provides an opportunity for students in their first Specialization Practicum to integrate theoretical constructs and information gained in the classroom with the application of social work practice. The seminars are designed to elicit a deeper understanding of the connections between coursework and daily intentional social work practices, enhance a student's knowledge and skill base through collaborating with peers, and provide a supportive opportunity for students to debrief on practice challenges.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5822* with a grade of S or higher, SWRK 5832* with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5842* with a grade of S or higher); (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B or higher or SLM5 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5841 or SWRK 5821)
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
SWRK 5821 - MSW/ABA Generalist Practicum
2 Credits
The generalist practicum requires students to have a strengths and integrated perspective of social work experience with micro, mezzo, and macro activities. This practicum consists of 350 hours in the field. Because this is a combined practicum for ABA and MSW students, supervision must meet the accreditation standards of both the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) and the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Supervision may be provided by one qualified individual or by separate supervisors for each discipline. Must be taken within first 15 hours of course enrollment.*
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5819*; (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLM2 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLM3 with a minimum score of S)
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5819
SWRK 5822 - Applied Behavior Analysis Practicum I
2 Credits
Students complete 350 hours of supervised field experience integrating professional knowledge, values, and skills. Because this is a combined practicum for ABA and MSW students, supervision must meet the accreditation standards of both the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) and the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Supervision may be provided by one qualified individual or by separate supervisors for each discipline.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5820*; (SWRK 5819 or SLM5 with a minimum score of S); SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5820
SWRK 5823 - Applied Behavior Analysis Practicum II
2 Credits
Students will continue to build on their knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of specialization. Because this is a combined practicum for ABA and MSW students, supervision must meet the accreditation standards of both the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) and the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).This practicum consists of 350 hours in the field.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5820 with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5822 with a grade of S or higher
SWRK 5824 - Applied Behavior Analysis Practicum III
2 Credits
Students complete 350 hours of supervised field experience focused on applying behavior analytic principles in professional practice. Supervision must meet the accreditation standards of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5823 with a grade of S or higher
SWRK 5828 - Fundraising for Non-Profit Organizations
3 Credits
This course focuses on the cycle, stages and progression of fund development for formal, nonprofit organizations and grassroots associations. It introduces the concept of advancement, development, relationships and cultivation for nonprofit organizations. It emphasizes the importance of developing relationships within and matched to the stages and activities of institutional advancement and development.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5702 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5725 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5750 with a grade of B- or higher; SWRK 5751 with a grade of B- or higher; (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
SWRK 5832 - Community & Organization Practicum I
2 Credits
Students will learn to integrate knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of concentration. This practicum consists of 300 hours in the field supervised by a qualified professional that meets the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) requirements.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5819 or SLM5 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher or SLM6 with a minimum score of S)
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5820
SWRK 5833 - Community & Organization Practicum II
3 Credits
Students will continue to build on their knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of concentration. This practicum consists of 300 hours in the field supervised by a qualified professional that meets the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) requirements.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5820 with a grade of C or higher; SWRK 5832 with a grade of S or higher
SWRK 5841 - Master of Social Work Generalist Practicum
2 Credits
This practicum requires students to have a generalist perspective social work experience with micro, mezzo, and macro activities consisting of 300 hours in the field supervised by a qualified professional that meets the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) requirements. This practicum must be taken within the first 15 hours of the MSW program.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5819*; (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLM2 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLM3 with a minimum score of S)
* Concurrent enrollment allowed.
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5819
SWRK 5842 - Clinical Practicum I
2 Credits
Clinical students will learn to integrate knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of concentration. This practicum consists of 300 hours in the field supervised by a qualified professional that meets the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) requirements.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5819 or SLM5 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher or SLM6 with a minimum score of S)
Corequisite(s): SWRK 5820
SWRK 5843 - Clinical Practicum II
3 Credits
Students will continue to build on their knowledge, values, and skills to develop a professional level of practice with specific emphasis on their area of concentration. This practicum consists of 300 hours in the field supervised by a qualified professional that meets the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) requirements.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 5842 with a grade of S or higher; SWRK 5820 with a grade of C or higher
SWRK 5844 - Elective Practicum IV
3 Credits
This elective requires special approval and provides additional practicum experience in an area of special interest to the student. This practicum consists of 300 hours in the field supervised by a qualified professional that meets the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) requirements.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5819 with a grade of B- or higher, SWRK 5821 with a grade of S or higher, or SWRK 5841 with a grade of S or higher)
SWRK 5930 - Special Topics
3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 5725 with a grade of B or higher or SLM2 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5702 with a grade of B or higher or SLM1 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5750 with a grade of B or higher or SLM3 with a minimum score of S); (SWRK 5751 with a grade of B or higher or SLM4 with a minimum score of S)
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 5980 - Graduate Independent Study in Social Work
1-3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
This offers students the opportunity for individual and independent study of a particular area related to social work theory or practice. Prior approvals by the student's academic advisor, Director of the MSW Program, and faculty member directing and evaluating the study are required.
Attributes: Social Work PhD Elective
SWRK 6000 - Foundations of Theory Development in Social Work
3 Credits
This required course is designed to equip doctoral students with the knowledge and skills to engage in effective theory development and synthesis. The course considers some of the major historical currents in the philosophy of science that undergirds contemporary scientific research and accentuates emerging ideas in science that cross-cut traditional boundaries. The course culminates in a theoretical synthesis paper suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal. (Offered every fall)
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students in the programs.
SWRK 6010 - Principles of Statistics & Data Analysis
3 Credits
This required course serves to introduce doctoral students to the quantitative skills, methods, and techniques necessary for scientific analysis, particularly in the social and behavioral sciences. Students will learn the vocabulary associated with scientific thinking and research, data collection, data analysis, data presentation, and interpretation and discussion of analytical results. Students will also be introduced to STATA, the statistical software program that will be used in subsequent analytical courses. This introduction will include instruction on data entry, data manipulation, and conducting basic data analysis and interpretation of results. (Offered every fall)
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students in the programs.
SWRK 6020 - Research Design & Measurement
3 Credits
This course is designed to equip social work PhD students with the knowledge and skills to engage in effective descriptive, explanatory, and intervention research. The course accentuates the application of optimal methodologies and measurement techniques vis-a-vis a particular research question or study objectives. It focuses on conceptualizing and designing a research project culminating in a research proposal. (Offered every spring.)
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students in the programs.
SWRK 6030 - Multivariate Data Analysis
3 Credits
This required course is the second of two required courses on quantitative analyses for doctoral students at the School of Social Work. The course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to apply linear regression to empirical social work research. In the course students will learn the concepts of regression, simple regression, multivariate regression, regression diagnostics, and the goodness of fit. The course also involves categorical predictors, transformation of variables, collinearity, variable selection, and generalized linear models. A list of topics is provided in the course schedule. (Offered every Spring)
SWRK 6040 - Research Area Synthesis
3 Credits
The purpose of the research area synthesis (RAS) is for the student to demonstrate sufficient command of an area of research and advance a body of knowledge. This is achieved by independently completing an extended review paper (e.g., 50-75 double spaced pages) critically appraises and synthesizes the research literature on a particular topic. The result of this document shall include an assessment of major theories or perspectives, key findings, research design assets and limitations, and measurement issues, and development of a future research agenda. Limited to Ph.D. program in social work students who are in their final semester of coursework.
SWRK 6050 - Advanced Social Work Data Analysis
3 Credits
This course will provide an overview of Generalized Linear Modeling (binary and multinomial logistic regression models & Poisson and Negative binomial regression models & coefficient strength comparison), Structural Equation Modeling (path analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, model comparison, multi-group SEM, latent growth curve modeling, finite mixture models), Survival Analysis (Cox proportional hazard modeling & discrete-time modeling), Causal Inference and its application (Propensity Score and its application, such as difference-indifference model & single-group and multiple-group time interrupt series analysis). Students will apply these methods to their existing datasets and exploratory research in support of their doctoral studies. The emphasis of this class will be on longitudinal analysis and applied know-how.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 6010; SWRK 6030
Attributes: Social Work PhD Methods
SWRK 6930 - Special Topics
1-4 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
SWRK 6980 - Graduate Independent Study in Social Work
1-3 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
The course provides students with an opportunity to develop their own research project that will be completed independently under their own initiative. The student will receive guidance and support of the assigned faculty member. The course requires prior approval of the faculty member and completion of a contract of agreement on products to be delivered and method of evaluating course/project outcomes.
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students in the programs.
SWRK 6990 - Dissertation Research
0-12 Credits (Repeatable for credit)
The ability to extend the knowledge base in Social Work is a qualification distinctive to the doctoral degree. A candidate for this most advanced, earned degree must present substantial evidence of this ability by presenting and defending a piece of original and independent research on a topic of importance that has been previously unresolved within the major field. This is perhaps the most valuable stage in doctoral training.
Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students in the programs.