L.SCW-130: Introduction to Social Welfare
The role of social welfare in contemporary society; its historical development with emphasis on political, economic and social influences. Special emphasis upon the role of values in the development of welfare. Overview of the of social work profession in a wide range of human service delivery systems. An examination of society’s current response to human need. 3 credits.
L.SCW-190: The Working Poor
Through a hands-on simulation, readings, class discussions, guest speakers, and media presentations, students will gain a foundational knowledge of the history of the working poor in the U.S., the theories regarding causation and reduction, and the grassroots efforts for change as they relate to the social class referred to as the working poor. Students will build on this foundation by developing a specific knowledge of the working poor in the Dubuque community. 3 credits. January term.
L.SCW-231: Human Behavior & Social Environment
A critical evaluation of the theories of human behavior within the context of those biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual processes which determine development and behavior throughout the life cycle. Special attention is given to alternative theories that complement the purpose and values of social work practice. Prerequisites: L.SCW-130. 3 credits.
L.SCW-260: Identity & Alternative Lifestyles-AI
This class explores the development of diverse lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) identities, families, and communities. Particular attention will be paid to examining the roots, forms, functions, and effects of heterosexism on the LGBT population. Prerequisites: L.LIB-100, L.LIB-105, L.LIB-110, and one course from L.LIB130, L.LIB-135, or L.LIB-220. 3 credits.
L.SCW-265: Cultural Competency in Practice-AC
This course may be especially appealing to students in traditional “helping” professions (social work, education, criminal justice, psychology, etc.), but it will easily apply to students across disciplines. Students will explore theoretical models of cultural competency, the nature of discrimination and oppression, current service delivery systems and attitudes, and skills specific to living and working in a diverse society. Students will leave this course with a balanced and comprehensive view of culture. Students will not simply explore the difference between societal cultures or individual people. They will have the knowledge and skills to understand culture as a complex, unique, and dynamic aspect of every person with whom they interact. 3 credits.
L.SCW-325: Social Work in an Aging Population
Social Work in an Aging Population will provide students with a broad overview of social work practice with older adults. Students will explore social work practice related to the changing demographics and trends in aging, biopsychosocial aspects of aging, end-of-life care, assessment practices with older adults and their families, services within the Dubuque community and nationally for older adults, career paths available in the aging field, and policy implications for practice. 3 credits.
L.SCW-330: Child Welfare
This course will provide students with a broad overview of social work practice in child welfare services. Students will explore child welfare services and policies from the varying perspectives of the children and families served, the professionals providing the services, and the historical and current views, policies, and practices that shape the framework of the current child welfare system. 3 credits.
L.SCW-344: Social Policy: Formulation & Analysis
The focus of this course is on the role of the social worker as a policy advocate who addresses social problems in the public and agency/organizational sectors. This course focuses on policy advocacy as an intervention that requires a skill to be learned much like any other intervention skill in direct practice. Topics covered are the historical context of social policy in the United States, how to analyze social policy and understand the government policy-making process and understanding how values, conflicting viewpoints, and competing interests influence social policy. The focus will be on major policy areas and social action. Prerequisite: L.SCW-346. 3 credits.
L.SCW-345: Social Work Research
Students are introduced to the basic steps of the traditional scientific research process. A group research project is carried out following the approval of the Institutional Review Board. The initial results are analyzed and presented to the class. Students are also exposed to alternative research methods such as program evaluation and direct practice evaluation. Prerequisite: L.SCW-231. 3 credits.
L.SCW-346: Social Work Practice I
An introduction to the professional practice of social work with an emphasis upon the values, knowledge and skills of generalist practice. A proactive process of working with individuals and families is offered, including strength-based assessments, cross-cultural competencies and empowerment strategies. Development of written and oral communication skills through the use of interviewing, role plays, videotaping and case studies. Prerequisite: L.SCW-231. 3 credits.
L.SCW-347: Social Work Practice II
This is the second course in a sequence of three generalist practice courses. Practice II addresses practice with families and small groups. The focus is on group work which entails the deliberate use of intervention strategies and group processes to accomplish individual, group and community goals, using the value base and ethical practice principles of the social work profession. Prerequisite: L.SCW-346. 3 credits.
L.SCW-348: Social Work Practice III
This course explores the aspect of generalist practice involving proactive responding to large groups, communities and organizations. Macro skills of working within an agency or organizational leadership, supervision issues, grant writing, fundraising and community organizing are emphasized. Other skills to facilitate meetings, networking, time management, and handling conflict are addressed. Prerequisite: L.SCW-347. 3 credits.
SCW 350: Career Options and Professional Practice
An educationally focused community service experience and seminar that emphasizes socialization into the profession of social work. The course combines a two times weekly seminar with agency-based volunteer work in a helping role. A minimum of 100 hours of volunteer work must be completed to receive credit for the course. The seminar assists students in exploring their “goodness of fit” with a social work career and in developing an understanding of their own capacities in relation to professional social work competencies. Prerequisite: L.SCW-231. 3 credits.
L.SCW-395: Topics
Social Work topics course. Used to develop courses which have not been approved under another catalog number. See Division Chair for more information.
L.SCW-446: Field Instruction & Portfolio-PJ
Individually planned and supervised experience in a public or voluntary social service agency. The student spends approximately 15 hours per week or 210 clock hours during one semester in placement. Some placements will require students to drive their own car. A weekly two-hour seminar is required of all students in field instruction. Application for field instruction must be made in the semester preceding the semester in which the course is to be taken. Prerequisite: All requirements for the major completed. Restrictions: Social work majors only. 4.5 credits.
L.SCW-447: Field Instruction & Portfolio-PJ
Individually planned and supervised experience in a public or voluntary social service agency. The student spends approximately 15 hours per week or 210 clock hours during one semester in placement. Some placements will require students to drive their own car. A weekly two-hour seminar is required of all students in field instruction. Application for field instruction must be made in the semester preceding the semester in which the course is to be taken. Prerequisite: L.SCW-446. Restrictions: Social work majors only. 4.5 credits.
L.SCW-448: Field Instruction & Portfolio-PJ
Individually planned and supervised experience in a public or voluntary social service agency. The student spends approximately 32 hours per week or 420 clock hours per one semester in placement. Some placements will require students to drive their own car. A weekly two-hour seminar is required of all students in field instruction. Application for field instruction must be made in the semester preceding the semester in which the course is to be taken. Prerequisite: All requirements for the major completed. Restrictions: Social work majors only. 9 credits.
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