Course Descriptions
SOWK100 (3)
Introduction to Social Work
The professional activity of social workers in the U.S., including a brief history of the social-work profession, its knowledge, values, and skills base, and its cross-cultural aspects. Emphasis on the response of social work to varied populations and diverse cultures. Fall
SOWK101 S (3)
Orientation to Human Services
Required of all new and transfer social work students. Orientation to the social work program which includes academic information about the social work program, including the review of Student Handbook for the social work bachelor’s program, professionalism and expectations for the program, and a brief overview of key concepts in the helping professions are discussed. An opportunity to examine personal values and skills by observation at a community human services agency. Fifty hours of documented volunteer observation are required.
SOWK314 (2–3)
Migrant & Refugee Issues
This course will study fundamental theories and concepts regarding voluntary migration (migrant issues) and forced migration (refugee issues). It will also address the main political, social, economic, and environmental push and pull factors that influence immigration and emigration within the framework of globalization.
SOWK315 (2)
Values, Ethics and Diversity
Special attention is given to core values and professional ethics expected of outstanding social workers. Emphasizing a Christian world view, students develop appreciation for diversity and sensitivity toward issues related to culture, race, gender, class, age, and sexual identity. Pre/Corequisite: SOWK100 or permission of instructor. Fall
SOWK320 (3)
Introduction to Counseling Skills
Exposes students to basic engagement, listening, assessment, and interviewing skills. Students gain beginning skills to explore the problems of various client systems. Prerequisite: PSYC101. Spring
SOWK325 (3)
Social Welfare Institutions and Services
An analysis of the factors which determine the manner in which social-welfare services are currently being delivered in the U.S. Factors include the value base, the historical development,and the organization of the social welfare system. Prerequisites:SOWK100; HIST118 or PLSC104. Fall
SOWK331 (2)
Human Behavior and the Social Environment I
Ecological model for studying human behavior and an overview of normal individual development from conception through early childhood. Psycho-social, learning, and social-role theories constitute the theoretical basis for the course. Special attention paid to the impact of gender, health, and minority status upon human development. Prerequisites: SOWK100, BIOL100. Fall
SOWK332 (3)
Human Behavior and the Social Environment II
Ecological model for studying human behavior and an overview of normal individual development from middle childhood to late adulthood. Psycho-social, learning, and social-role theories constitute the theoretical basis for the course. Special attention paid to the impact of gender, health, and minority status upon human development. Prerequisite: SOWK331. Spring
SOWK350 (3)
Social Policy
Develops basic knowledge and skills for policy analysis, formulation and critical challenge within local and international contexts. Examines the determining factors affecting public policy in the United States as compared with other systems. Provides framework for analysis of social problems and policies, as they impact development and social service practice. Prerequisite: PLSC104. Spring
SOWK378 $ (0)
Study Tour
Travel to destinations relevant to individual programs of study. Classes will be selected from department(s) offerings. Fee may be required.
SOWK401, 402 (4, 4)
Foundations of Practice I, II
Designed to develop the theory, knowledge, and skills essential in generalist social-work practice. Various methods are offered for developing communication, assessment, planning, intervention, termination, and evaluative skills necessary in social work practice. Focus on skills necessary for practice with individuals, families and groups in a variety of settings. (SOWK401) Corequisite: SOWK420; Fall. (SOWK402) rerequisite: SOWK401 and Corequisites: SOWK331, 332, 420. Fall
SOWK405 (2)
Medical Social Work
Introduces and develops the skills needed for social work in health care settings: hospitals, hospices, homecare and nursing homes. Skills include case management, discharge planning, medical terminology, documentation, advocacy, understanding cultural diversity, individual and family interviewing, and understanding psychosocial issues related to each setting.
SOWK408 (2) swing
Introduction to Emergency Preparedness
Provides an introduction to basic philosophy and concepts of Emergency Preparedness as required by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and most states which certify staff. Includes use of FEMA-provided modules in the Professional Development Series which are accepted prerequisites for advanced classroom courses. A passing grade is required on each module for a Satisfactory grade and receipt of a Professional Development Series Certificate of Completion.
SOWK410 (2) swing
Children and Families at Risk
This course explores factors that put children and families at risk for various social problems in American society. Special attention is placed on institutions, services, policies, and laws that impact families, set within a historical context of child welfare laws and services.
SOWK415 Alt (2) swing
Substance Use in American Society
An overview of substance-use terminology, historical issues, definitions, epidemiology, consequences, and drugs of abuse within an American
cultural and historical framework. Offered alternate years.
SOWK420 (.5, .5)
Social Work Methods Seminar
Provides opportunity for students to develop their basic social work skills through integrating social work knowledge and theory into field practice. Several aspects of field will be discussed. Is taken concurrently with the student's field placement. Corequisite: SOWK401. Fall, Spring
SOWK425 (2) swing
Emergency Planning
Principles of emergency planning used in any type of disaster. Includes working with volunteers, handling special events, evacuation, mass fatalities, planning for schools, and homeland security planning. Required course for Michigan Professional Emergency Management (PEM) certification. Includes satisfactory completion of FEMA-provided modules in Professional Development Series. Prerequisite: SOWK408.
SOWK435 (1–4)
Field Instruction
A lab course to give students experience and practice in a community agency under qualified supervision. A total of 400 clock hours required. Repeatable to 4 credits. Fall, Spring, Summer
SOWK437 (2)
International Social Work
This course reviews the concepts, issues and organizations related to international social work. It gives students the historical perspective of the involvement of social workers in international action including both development and human rights efforts. The course includes a discussion of international ethics, global policy and international exchange.
SOWK438 (1–4)
Workshop:____________
SOWK440 (2) swing
Assessment and Treatment of Victims of Violence
Examination of assessment issues, approaches, and barriers to effective treatment when working with victims of domestic violence, adult survivors of sexual abuse, victims of rape, incest survivors, and child sexual-assault victims. Interpretation of assessment findings included. Short- and long- term therapy options including specific techniques are explored. Prerequisites: SOWK401 and 402 or SOWK501 or permission of instructor.
SOWK444 (1–6) swing
International Social Work Services and Programs
Students will travel within the USA and/or abroad to develop through immersion cultural competency in the areas of research, policy and practice, and to gain practical experience from an international social work perspective. Additionally, this course will provide students with networking opportunities with various humanitarian organizations working in national and international settings.
SOWK446 (2)
Crisis Intervention
Survey of brief treatment models. Direct application of various crisis intervention models to population in crisis. Prerequisite: SOWK401.
SOWK449 (2) swing
Disaster Response and Emergency Operations
Study of the phases of disaster response and recovery with attention to local, state, and national roles and expectations. Models of emergency management operations including communication, coordination, and chief executive decisionmaking under conditions of disaster response will be emphasized. Attention will be given to the problems and concerns of recovery on victims and communities and the implications of disaster recovery efforts. Required course for PEM certification. Prerequisites: BSAD426/526. Evidence of satisfactory completion of PDS modules, IS-244 Developing and Managing Volunteers, IS-546/547 Continuity of Operations, and IS-700 National Incident Management System.
SOWK455 (2–4) swing
Treatment of Substance Abuse
An overview of treatment techniques and basic prevention strategies including specific training in assessment and therapeutic techniques, examining the relationship between etiology and treatment. Treatment evaluation discussed. At-risk, vulnerable populations receive special consideration.
SOWK460 (2) swing
Death and Grief in Contemporary Society
Designed to help the student understand cultural and societal perspectives on death as well as develop an increased awareness and sensitivity to the personal and interpersonal dynamics of death, dying, and loss. The student's personal encounters with dying, death, and loss, as well as the experiences of guest speakers, provides topics for class discussion. The “art of condolence” is discussed for helping people deal with uncomplicated death and loss issues.
SOWK466 (3)
Social Work Research
A broad range of research tools available to social workers to improve both the effectiveness and efficiency of their practice. Research methodologies, both quantitative and qualitative, presented. Also includes a generalist overview of statistics. Students do a research project addressing a social problem. Pre/corequisite: SOWK331. Spring
SOWK467 (2) swing
Social Aspects of Long-Term Care
Focuses on the health-care system's ability to provide for the elderly who require long-term-care facilities. Examines the aging American population, attitudes and stereotypes associated with the aged, resources available to the social worker, and techniques to assist in providing appropriate care for the elderly.
SOWK475 (1–4) swing
Topics in:
Students are able to select offerings from various contemporary social work topics. Repeatable with different topics.
SOWK477 (2) swing
Community Assessment and Capacity Mapping
Introduction to various methods for assessing community needs and mapping community capacity to address those needs. Includes damage assessment for emergency situations.
SOWK478 (3) swing
Principles & Practice of Hazards Mitigation
Study of preparedness as related to hazards in the local community with attention to means of mitigation as well as planning measures. Includes IS modules IS-271 Anticipating Hazaradous Weather & Community Risk and IS-340 Hazardous Materials Prevention. Prerequisites: Evidence of satisfactory completion of PDS modules IS-5 Intro to Hazardous Materials and IS-55 Hazardous Materials Guide for Citizens.
SOWK489 (.5, .5)
BSW Professional Seminar
Introduces and monitors professionalism as evidenced in student's portfolio, scholarship skills, and their ability to exhibit positive behaviors that will ensure success in social work practice. Fall Portfolios presented and graded in the Spring. Fall, Spring
SOWK495 (1–4)
Independent Study/Project/Teachings
Consent of the instructor required.
Foundation Year
SOWK501, 502 (4, 4)
Foundations of Practice I, II
Designed to develop the theory, knowledge, and skills essential in generalist social-work practice. Various methods are offered for developing communication, assessment, planning, intervention, termination and evaluative skills necessary in social work practice. Focus on skills necessary for practice with individuals, families and groups in a variety of settings. (SOWK501) Co/Prerequisite: SOWK 540 & Corequisite: SOWK510. Fall. (SOWK502) Prerequisite: SOWK501 and Corequisite: SOWK510. Spring
SOWK510 (.5, .5)
Generalist Field Seminar
Provides opportunity for students to develop their basic social work skills through integrating social work knowledge and theory into field practice. Several aspects of field will be discussed. Is taken concurrently with the student's field placement. Corequisites: SOWK535 and SOWK501 or 502. Fall, Spring
SOWK515 (2)
Christian Perspectives on Ethics and Diversity
Students will examine their personal beliefs and values in relationship to ethical and diversity issues. The course will provide students with tools to successfully manage and support diversity and its benefits in the context of social work practice. Students will also apply the NASW Code of Ethics to advanced practice dilemmas they may face in the field. Fall
SOWK531 (2)
Human Behavior and the Social Environment I
Ecological model for studying human behavior and an overview of normal individual development from conception through early childhood. Psycho-social, learning, and social-role theories constitute the theoretical basis for the course. Special attention paid to the impact of gender, health, and minority status upon human development. Fall
SOWK532 (2)
Human Behavior and the Social Environment II
Ecological model for studying human behavior and an overview of normal individual development from middle childhood to late adulthood. Psycho-social, learning, and social-role theories constitute the theoretical basis for the course. Special attention paid to the impact of gender, health, and minority status upon human development. Spring
SOWK535 (1–4)
Generalist Field Experience
In this practicum, students will apply course-based knowledge and skills by working in a social service setting. A mnimum of 400 clock hours are required. Repeatable to 4 credits. Fall, Spring, Summer
SOWK550 (3)
Social Policy
Develops basic knowledge and skills for policy analysis, formulation and critical challenge within local and international contexts. Examines the determining factors affecting public policy in the United States as compared with other systems. Provides framework for analysis of social problems and policies, as they impact development and social service practice. Spring
SOWK566 (3)
Social Work Research
A broad range of research tools available to social workers to improve both the effectiveness and efficiency of their practice. Research methodologies, both quantitative and qualitative, presented. Also includes an overview of statistics. Students do a research project addressing a social problem. Pre/Corequisite: SOWK531. Spring
Advanced Year
SOWK601 (2)
Advanced Practice I
Develops interpersonal practice skills on an advanced level. The course gives special consideration to developing proficiency in cognitive-behavioral therapy. Prerequisite: Completion of SOWK502 or admission to Advanced Standing. Corequisite: SOWK610. Fall
SOWK602 (2)
Advanced Practice II
Develops practice skills on an advanced level. The course gives special consideration to Social Work leadership as it relates to human and financial resource management. Prerequisite: Advanced-year status or permission of instructor. Corequisite: SOWK610. Spring
SOWK605 (3)
Advanced Clinical Assessment
Advanced assessment theories of and recent research into the etiology and psychopathology of social variance. Emphasis on developing differential diagnostic skills and holistic assessment from a strengths perspective. Prerequisite: Advanced-year status or permission of instructor. Fall
SOWK610 (.5, .5)
Advanced Field Seminar
This seminar builds on the student's generalist foundational knowledge. It is designed to help the student further integrate social work knowledge and theory to field practice. Several aspects of field will be discussed. Is taken concurrently with the student's field placement. Corequisite: SOWK601 or SOWK602. Fall, Spring
SOWK630 (3)
Policy for Social Change
Students explore theory and apply it to community organizing, coalition building, and advanced-policy analysis; assess existing policies within various systems and study the impact of these policies; and plan and implement a social-action project. Prerequisite: Advanced-year placement.
SOWK635 (1–5)
Advanced Field Experience
In this practicum, students will apply advanced course-based knowledge and skills by working in a social service setting. A minimum of 500 clock hours is required. Repeatable to 5 credits. Fall, Spring, Summer
SOWK637 (1–6)
Advanced Standing Field Experience
In this practicum, students will apply advanced course-based knowledge and skills by working in a social service setting. A minimum of 600 hours are required. Repeatable to 6 credits. Corequisites: SOWK610, SOWK621. Fall, Spring, Summer
SOWK648 (1–4)
Workshop:____________
SOWK660 (3)
Advanced Practice Evaluation
Prepares students to examine their own practice's quality. Attention given to selecting appropriate measurement tools. The latest evaluation techniques are presented, offering students resources for 21st-century practice. Co/Prerequisites: SOWK635 and advanced-year placement or permission of instructor. Spring
SOWK665 $ (0)
Program Continuation
Student may register for this title while clearing deferred grade (DG) and/or incomplete (I) classes with advisor approval only.
SOWK670 $ (0)
Project Continuation
Students may register for this title while clearing deferred grade (DG) and/or incomplete (I) classes with advisor approval only. Registration for this title indicates full-time status.
SOWK689 (.5, .5)
Advanced Professional Seminar
Facilitates MSW closure prior to graduation. Students prepare and defend their portfolios. Each student reviews and documents his/her learning and personal goal attainment. Exploration of issues related to career development and lifelong learning. Prerequisite: Advanced Standing or permission of instructor. Fall, Spring
Graduate Electives
SOWK505 (2)
Medical Social Work
Introduces and develops the skills needed for social work in health care settings: hospitals, hospices, homecare and nursing homes. Skills include case management, discharge planning, medical terminology, documentation, advocacy, understanding cultural diversity, individual and family interviewing, and understanding psychosocial issues related to each setting.
SOWK514 (2–3)
Migrant & Refugee Issues
This course will study fundamental theories and concepts regarding voluntary migration (migrant issues) and forced migration (refugee issues). It will also address the main political, social, economic and environmental push and pull factors that influence immigration and emigration within the framework of globalization.
SOWK520 (2)
Web & Media for Not-for-Profit
This course emphasizes interpersonal competence, various professional standards and use of presentation and archival technologies for use in professional interviews. Electronic Portfolio, Web Development and CDROM Authoring technologies are presented.
SOWK537 (2)
International Social Work
This course reviews the concepts, issues and organizations related to international social work. It gives students the historical perspective of the involvement of social workers in international action including both development and human rights efforts. The course includes a discussion of international ethics, global policy, and international exchange.
SOWK545 (2)
Counseling and Spirituality
Working from a Christian worldview, students will integrate current therapeutic practice models with spiritual counseling principles and skills. Students will learn how to apply a variety of spiritual assessment and intervention skills across diverse settings and populations. Prerequisite: MSW student or permission of instructor.
SOWK578 (0)
Study Tour
Travel to selected areas of social work interest combined with lectures, directed readings and assignments. The amount of credit and geographic location are designated at the time a study tour is announced.
SOWK620 (2)
School Social Work
Required for students who wish to practice social work in a school setting. Various aspects of practice included: the students, the community, the school staff, and innovative social-workpractice techniques. Offered alternate years.
SOWK624 (2)
Evidence-Based Therapies
This survey course will explore evidence-based practice models that are commonly used in clinical settings. Students will have opportunities to observe and practice these models in a classroom setting in preparation for application in field settings.
SOWK626 (2)
Therapy with Children & Adolescents
This course prepares students to work with children and adolescents. Information on therapeutic modalities and specific interventions are included. The major psychological disorders in children and adolescents are addressed, as well as special issues they may have. Prerequisite: Advanced-year status or permission of instructor.
SOWK628 (2)
Treatment of Adult Mental Disorders
Exposure to the primary clinical social goals of assessment, diagnosis, and treatment by examining the common adult mental disorders. Emphasis placed on assessment factors, including cultural, psycho-social and evaluation of symptoms. Specific treatment techniques for each diagnosis explored. Prerequisites: SOWK501, 502 or advanced placement.
SOWK638 (2)
Leadership in Social Work
Focus on leadership theories and strategies. Students develop the capacity to apply these theories and strategies adaptively in leadership situations within organizational and community context. Students explore how leadership styles, communication, planning, organizing, decision making, and marketing impact organizational and community change. Prerequisite: Completion of SOWK502, admission to Advanced Standing, or permission of instructor.
SOWK640 (2)
Interventions in Marital Conflict
Explores models and techniques to uncover and utilize counselee's strengths to improve marital communication and satisfaction. Research-based techniques applied through roleplaying and other experiential activities. Prerequisite: SOWK402 or SOWK501 or an equivalent graduate course in social-work methods or counseling.
SOWK647 (2)
Crisis Intervention
Survey of brief treatment models. Direct application of the different approaches to populations in crisis. Prerequisite: SOWK502 or advanced placement.
SOWK649 (2)
Advanced Family Therapy
This course prepares students to work with families. Major family therapy modalities are included, as well as an exposure to therapeutic family concerns. Prerequisite: Advanced-year status or permission of instructor.
SOWK655 (2)
Organizational/Community Assessment
The basic underpinnings of organizational dynamics. Students explore the historical influences on and current challenges faced by social-work managers. The basics of management-assessment skills and human issues that impact organization explored. Prerequisite: Advanced-year placement. Fall
SOWK675 (1–4)
Topics in:
Students are able to select offerings from various contemporary social work topics. Repeatable with different topics.
SOWK690 (1–3)
Independent Study/Research
Open to qualified students who show ability and initiative. See the department policy for specific requirements. Prerequisites: Permission of Graduate Program Director and instructor.