Online MSW Curriculum

Seminar introducing M.S.W. students to program philosophy and social work’s theory and value base.

Introductory practice course that examines generalist social work practice, dominant theoretical influences, and forces shaping social work over time.

Introduction to and critical consideration of social work perspectives on human behavior as influenced by the social environment. Particular attention is paid to biological, psychological, social, cultural and spiritual influences.

Practice-oriented course building on students’ developing knowledge of engagement, assessment, intervention and evaluation and the application to practice with individuals and families in context of community.

Foundation in social welfare policy and services; examination of relationship between history, social welfare policy, and emergence of social work profession. Introduction to frameworks for policy analysis.

This course will provide students with an understanding of the Indian Child Welfare Act including the historical events leading to its passage and contemporary issues surrounding implementation of the law. Students will apply knowledge of the law to practice and build skills on working across cultural differences in order to promote the best interest of American Indian children and families. This course runs for the first seven weeks of the semester.

Seminar accompanying first semester foundation practicum in which students discuss experience with goal of integrating theory and practice.

First semester foundation field practicum experience in a supervised setting designed to provide opportunities to integrate classroom learning and field experiences.

Advanced course on human behavior and social environment that addresses difference and diversity, histories and mechanisms of discrimination and oppression, and frameworks for thought and practice that recognize diversity and promote social justice.

Introduction to principles, methodologies, technologies, and statistical approaches of human service research. Emphasis on beginning capabilities in evaluation of social work practice and skill development regarding use of published research.

Practice oriented course addressing theories, frameworks, principles, and skills of group and community work. Dynamics of group work and examination of modalities such as mutual aid and social action groups.

Seminar accompanying second semester foundation practicum in which students discuss experience with goal of integrating theory and practice.

Second semester foundation field practicum experience in a supervised setting designed to provide opportunities to integrate classroom learning and field experiences.

The use of research within the integrated practice model of social work through evaluation of practice and program evaluation. Advanced statistical concepts are applied to direct practice and five types of program evaluation.

Builds on the skills, knowledge, and values of the foundation generalist and practice courses.

Critical analysis of how predominant social work theories and professional values and skills are being incorporated into the practicum.

Advanced supervised field work in public and private agencies and institutions.

Focus on the analysis of existing or proposed policies specific to oppressed populations, rural areas and isolated communities.

Advanced training in professional leadership and how to effectively conceive, plan, design, implement, manage, assess, and change contemporary organizations.

Critical analysis of how predominant social work theories and professional values and skills are being incorporated into the practicum. Advanced portfolio development.

Advanced supervised field work in public and private agencies and institutions.

Summative and in-depth written analysis of course work and practicum experience.