46 courses with the subject SWK, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
Project individually arranged by student and faculty sponsor. Requires completion of the Independent Study form and approval by the Faculty Sponsor, Academic Advisor, Department Chair and Academic Dean.
This course analyzes the history and adequacy of major cash support, in-kind, and social service programs in the United States. Particular attention is paid to the ideological, political and economic factors that have shaped their development. The emergence of social work as a profession and the role of social workers in social welfare programs are also examined. Liberal arts
Project individually arranged by student and faculty sponsor. Requires completion of the Independent Study form and approval by the Faculty Sponsor, Academic Advisor, Department Chair and Academic Dean.
Human Behavior and the Social Environment is a sequence of two courses, focusing on human development and interactions in the context of the social environment. Throughout the sequence, a person-in-environment perspective is utilized to interpret the experiences of individuals, families, groups and communities. These are evaluated in the light of social work values and ethics, specifically social and environmental justice. The first course in the sequence addresses the human life cycle in the context of the social environment. Multiple theoretical perspectives of human social behavior are examined. Each perspective is assessed with regard to its strengths and limitations, and its relevance to generalist social work practice. Liberal arts
This is the first course in a series of three courses that prepare students for generalist professional practice. Students are introduced to the purposes, historical roots, structure, fields of practice, values, and ethics of professional social work. Generalist professional practice is defined, and a systems approach to person(s)-in-environment practice with client systems of various sizes and diverse types is presented. Planned change processes in micro, mezzo, and macro level practice are introduced. Communication skills and self-reflection are included.
Human behavior and the Social Environment is a sequence of two courses, focusing on human development and interactions in the context of the social environment. Throughout the sequence, a person-in-environment perspective is utilized to interpret the experiences of individuals, families, groups and communities. These are evaluated in the light of social work values and ethics, specifically social and environmental justice. The second course in the sequence pays attention to those features of families, groups, and communities that encourage human development, or constrain and thwart it. Liberal arts
Analysis of ways in which different societies respond to human needs and risks to human well being. Emphasizing the importance of a society’s fundamental values in determining social welfare policies, programs and practices, this course compares and contrasts social welfare in the United States with that of Canada, Mexico, and other nations. International social work and the relationship between global interdependence and social work are introduced and examined. Liberal Arts
This course examines the impact of cultural and ethnic diversity in American society within the framework of social work values. Oppression, exploitation, prejudice, discrimination, and devaluation of groups based on “differences” are explored as historical and contemporary characteristics of society. Implications of cultural and ethnic diversity for the profession of social work and the practice of professional social work, including the development of culturally competent assessments and interventions are emphasized. Liberal arts
This course examines the mental health system from a generalist social work perspective. Attention is given to the political, cultural and economic factors that have influenced policies, organizations and treatment approaches in the mental health field, in the U.S.A. and other countries. Requisite knowledge for effective service delivery and the roles of mental health providers are explored. Semester(s) Offered: Fall
This course examines the relationship between organizations and social work at micro, mezzo, and macro levels with an emphasis on social policy and contemporary issues. It includes attention to classical and contemporary organizational theory, structural attributes of organizations, ethical conflicts, roles of social workers, and organizational change. The current organization of public and private social services is presented. The development of skills to assure effective organizational functioning is emphasized throughout the course. Liberal arts
Analysis of a selected topic related to the needs of vulnerable populations in society, and relevant social work interventions. Liberal arts Semester(s) Offered: Fall, Spring
Introduction to principles of social group work practice, theoretical foundations for understanding properties of group structure and process, and models of group work practice. Students are introduced to skills required for group assessment and effective intervention in group work practice. Students are exposed to opportunities to experience group process and to practice group work skills through a variety of classroom experiences. Emphasis is placed on the versatility of social work group practice in diverse settings. Liberal arts
Project individually arranged by student and faculty sponsor. Requires completion of the Independent Study form and approval by the Faculty Sponsor, Academic Advisor, Department Chair and Academic Dean.
This is the second of three courses that prepare students for generalist practice. Content focuses on the development of knowledge and skills in working with individuals, families, and treatment groups. Central to the presentation of content are the social work values of respect for the dignity and worth of every human being, venerating diversity, client empowerment, self-determination, confidentiality, and social justice. Particular emphasis is placed on approaching generalist practice with critical thinking skills. Liberal Arts
This is the last in a series of three courses that prepare students for generalist professional practice. In this course, content focuses on the development of macro generalist practice knowledge and skills, with emphasis upon advocacy, community change and professional development. This is presented within the context of social work values and ethics, and the inherent interdependence of micro, mezzo and macro social systems. Responsibilities of professional social workers with regard to enhancing competency through lifelong learning are examined.
This course is part I of a two-semester field practicum which provides students with the opportunity to integrate their academic learning in a practice setting under supervision of a qualified field instructor. The two-semester field practicum requires a minimum of 450 hours (225 per semester) of field practice and participation in the field orientation. Each student will complete an education plan of field practicum learning activities consistent with the field practice core competencies and practice behaviors.
This course is part II of a two-semester field practicum which provides students with the opportunity to integrate their academic learning in a practice setting under supervision of a qualified field instructor. The second semester builds on knowledge and skills acquired in the first semester. The field practicum requires a minimum of 450 hours (225 per semester) of field practice and participation in the field orientation. Each student will complete an education plan of field practicum learning activities consistent with the field practice core competencies and practice behaviors.
Introduction to basic research methods used in professional social work.
The integrative field practicum seminar is the second of a two-part sequence taken concurrently with the basic field education experience. The seminar provides students with an on-going forum in which to explore practice and professional development issues as they relate to each student’s field experience. It provides an opportunity for individual and group reflection on the integration of classroom and field learning. The second seminar expands on the knowledge and skills developed in the first seminar.
Seminars will focus on one or more current topics related to development and/or application of global social action. Semester(s) Offered: Varies
Focusing on international awareness, this course will explore theories of international social development and program planning and the role of social workers and human service practitioners in the global development context. Students will use an international perspective to explore globalization, global issues, and their impact on communities both internationally and locally. Simulated application of theories of assessment and development economics will be integrating concurrently with professional values and ethics in addressing relevant social issues and policies. Semester(s) Offered: Varies
The social action model is key to sociopolitical empowerment to affect increased social justice. This course aims to address and demonstrate the actions that might be required to develop and accomplish the broader social development and action agenda through practice and research. The course combines theories of international social work practice, social development, and community development with an opportunity for students to utilize their emerging research and practice skills ‘in vivo’ with their partner organization.
This course analyzes how social welfare policies are initiated, legislated, implemented, and evaluated. The political and organizational processes that affect policy creation and implementation are examined. Attention is given to the role of social movements and interest groups in the development of social welfare policies. Special emphasis is given to the ways social policies facilitate or impede racial divisiveness, social injustice, and economic exploitation. Liberal arts
Supervised tutoring or classroom instructional assistance for social work courses. A contract specifying each student’s duties, approved by the social work department chair, will be filed in the department office. Semester(s) Offered: Fall, Spring
Project individually arranged by student and faculty sponsor. Requires completion of the Independent Study form and approval by the Faculty Sponsor, Academic Advisor, Department Chair and Academic Dean.
This course overviews the evolution of social welfare policy over time and the role of social work in the development of social policy, but with an emphasis on analyzing contemporary social policy. Concepts about the meaning and purpose of social welfare, ideologies, and values about the role of government and social welfare policy are explored through in-depth analysis of a major social problem. The pedagogical focus of this course uses a social problem/policy model to explore definitions, correlates, causes, and consequences of urban poverty. The same model is also used by students in exploring particular social problems and policies of interest to them. Particular emphasis is placed on analyzing current policy interventions and proposing innovative means to improve them, with an emphasis on the unique contributions of social work.
This course introduces students to basic concepts, theories, and empirical findings about human behavior in multiple system levels, taking into account biological, psychological, cultural/social, spiritual, climate, and economic forces that influence human behavior and their implications for social work practice. Theoretical perspectives on well-being, strengths, resiliency, empowerment, maladaptive, oppression, and developmental processes are analyzed critically, especially concerning applicability to social work practice that supports client strengths, appreciates diversity, and promotes social and environmental justice. The course includes examination of crises, transformational events, and expectable changes for individuals and social systems throughout individuals’ life spans and development of social systems.
Introduces students to professional social work practice interventions, with a focus on bridging clinical and critical theory and practice. With an emphasis on the development of foundational practice knowledge and competence for work with individuals and families, this course focuses on: (1) engaging a client system in a relationship, (2) assessing the problem situation, (3) selecting appropriate interventions and evaluating their effectiveness.
This course is the first in a two-part sequence of the generalist field practicum I & II experience. Under the guidance of a supervising social worker, students begin practice in a setting that aligns with their professional interest area. The focus is on beginning skills of social work in generalist and rural practice. Students are expected to complete a minimum of 200 hours in field placement each semester. The successful completion of this course sequence, including the requisite minimum of 400 hours, indicates a student’s ability to move into the more advanced and autonomous Advanced Practice year field experience.
This Generalist Field Seminar is the first of a two-part course sequence of the Generalist Field Seminar I & II to accompany Generalist Field Practicum I. This course is designed to help students make the transition from classroom to experiential learning by providing a structured environment for reflection, skills development, and integration of classroom learning with real-world practice. Through engaging in seminar activities, students will enhance their understanding of generalist social work principles and cultivate essential skills for effective reflexive and ethical generalist social work practice. The successful completion of this course sequence, indicates a student’s ability to move into the more advanced and autonomous Advanced Practice year field experience.
This course will focus on the theories and empirical knowledge of organizational behavior, development and the change exemplified by theories of bureaucracy, conflict, human relations, and decision-making. Through these lenses, students further examine theories on the roles, functions, and responsibilities of social services managers, including supervisors, community organizers and project planners working in urban and rural social work agencies. Particular attention is focused toward working with a culturally diverse workforce and community groups experiencing severe social problems, so that education, health, human and social services can be provided justly, efficiently, and effectively. Topics to be covered include evidence-based social work practices, management and organizational practice, finance, diversity issues in resource development, and managing change and designing services in complex settings.
This course builds on the knowledge and skills presented in Interventions I with a focus on social work practice in macro systems, including groups, communities and organizations. This course interrogates various methods of assessment in large systems to inform interventions and understanding of the impact of these interventions on all client systems. Course content includes macro social systems thinking applied to the assessment of socio-structural institutions and organizations as well as change strategies and fundamentals of community organizational practice, with an emphasis on multi-cultural, intercultural, and anti-oppressive perspectives in macro practice.
This course is the first in a two-part sequence of the generalist field practicum I & II experience. Students will continue to practice and expand their skills under the guidance of a supervising social worker. The focus is on intermediate skills of social work in generalist and rural practice. Students are expected to complete 200 hours/semester for a minimum total of 400 hours by the end of Generalist Field Practicum II. The successful completion of this course sequence, including the requisite minimum of 400 hours and passing their Competency Evaluation indicates a student’s ability to move into the more advanced and autonomous Advanced Practice year field experience.
This Generalist Field Seminar is the second of a two-part course sequence of the Generalist Field Seminar I & II to accompany Generalist Field Practicum II. Students continue with their experiential learning through participating in a structured environment for reflection, skills development, and integration of classroom learning with real-world practice. Through engaging in seminar activities, students will further enhance their understanding of foundational social work principles and cultivate essential skills for effective reflexive and ethical generalist social work practice. The successful completion of this course sequence indicates a student’s ability to move into the more advanced and autonomous Advanced Practice year field experience.
This course is designed as a refresher for Advanced Standing students with the prime focus of reviewing deepening their knowledge in social work ethics and values as well as generalist practice skills at the micro, mezzo and macro levels of practice. A goal of the Advanced Standing Seminar is to link the students’ professional social work development firmly in evidence-based and trauma-informed perspectives, which may not have been the case with their undergraduate education. This course provides students with the opportunity to explicitly integrate theory, research and practice with diverse populations in a social-ecological and rights-based context.
This course provides an advanced examination of multiple aspects of trauma, trauma-informed care, and resilience across all system levels: individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations. Several theories and frameworks are explored to provide an in-depth understanding of the impact of trauma, including developmental, psychodynamic, systems and attachment theories, which recognize that the relational environment is vital to healing and recovery. Intersectionality and critical race theory are integrated to understand the compounding nature of trauma, difference, and adversity, which includes discussion of research on Adverse Childhood Experiences and anti-oppressive practice. The history of trauma is explored as well as cross-cultural debates and current views on the role of trauma in contemporary culture and the role of trauma in understanding human rights. Interventions, including evidence-based practices and policies, are critically appraised with an emphasis on trauma-informed care across cultures. The importance of understanding reactive trauma, post-traumatic growth and resiliency is emphasized with student compassion resilience being integral and practiced throughout this course.
This course is the first in a two-part sequence of the advanced field practicum experience I & II. Under the guidance of a supervising social worker, students will work toward increasing their autonomous application of knowledge, values, and professional practice behaviors to provide advanced generalist social work services. This practicum provides opportunities for students to discuss and demonstrate the application of knowledge, values, skills, critical thinking, and management of emotions in the context of advanced social work practice. Students will have one placement throughout the academic year and are expected to complete a minimum of 250 hours/semester in each Advanced Field Practicum I and Advanced Field Practicum II for a required total of 500 hours in their advanced field practicums.
This course is the first in a two-part sequence of the advanced field seminar experience I & II. In this structured seminar platform, students will develop as critical and reflective thinkers who understand how trauma-informed care impacts individuals, groups, communities and organizations. This seminar provides opportunities for students to discuss and demonstrate the application of knowledge, values, skills, critical thinking, and management of emotions in the context of advanced social work practice. Engaging in seminar activities will provide students with an understanding of the transferable knowledge and skills, as well as cognitive-affective processes required for reflexive and ethical advanced social work practice.
The advanced integrative practice course further develops social work knowledge, skills, and practice modalities across diverse settings and systems. Rural practice environments, fostering resilience, and community justice are emphasized throughout the advanced integrative practice curriculum. Advanced applications of anti-oppressive practice and rights-based approaches to understanding social, environmental, and economic justice are integrated across the curriculum. Students will select from sections focused on 1) trauma, resilience, families, and communities 2) rural justice and global social development or 3) leadership, innovation, and organizational wellbeing.
This course explores how social research may be engaged when issues of inequity and marginalization are embedded in the research content and processes. We will examine scholarship that looks at the (existing and possible) power relations involved in the production of knowledge as well as the tensions and possibilities for the conduct of research as a mechanism of social change. Students will explore their epistemological assumptions and various tools of inquiry and discovery to explore transformative approaches to scholarship and creative work. Multiple critical approaches to inquiry including auto-ethnography and ethnography, feminist, queer, and Indigenous research methods, participatory action research, critical quantitative analysis, and more will be examined.
This course is the second in a two-part sequence of the advanced field practicum experience I & II. This course builds upon the skills developed in the Advanced Field Practicum I course, allowing students to engage in more complex cases and interventions within their supervised field placement. Students will deepen their understanding of advanced theories, refine their assessment and intervention skills and actively contribute to collaborative practice with colleagues, including interdisciplinary teams. Students will have one placement throughout the academic year and are expected to complete a minimum of 250 hours/semester in each Advanced Field Practicum I and Advanced Field Practicum II for a required total of 500 hours in their advanced field practicums.
The Advanced Field Seminar II serves as a continuation of Advanced Field Seminar I, allowing for MSW students to deepen their engagement with advanced practice concepts, refine their critical thinking skills, and prepare for advanced roles within the field of social work. Engaging in seminar activities will help students strengthen their ability to assess complex situations and contribute meaningfully to the profession. This seminar provides opportunities for students to discuss and demonstrate the application of knowledge, values, skills, critical thinking, and management of emotions in the context of advanced social work practice.
This course prepares students to facilitate all of the components of a needs assessment and program evaluation for a social service organization. Students will become familiar with issues related to the design, monitoring, and assessment of social work programs and interventions, using both quantitative and qualitative methods. Finally, students will conduct data analysis using software such as Microsoft Excel and increase their skills in data visualization and reporting.
This course provides in depth examination of a selected advanced specialization topic related to the needs of vulnerable populations across socio-cultural contexts. Students will explore relevant social work interventions from various system-level perspectives. Students can select from a section focused on a) trauma, resilience, families, and communities, b) rural justice and global social development, or c) leadership, innovation, and organizational wellbeing. Although this course is required to be taken at least once as part of the MSW program, students may choose to take this course more than once as the topics change.
This Capstone Seminar is designed to support students in accomplishing a capstone project and culminating the students’ experiences at SUNY Plattsburgh while validating their knowledge and skills as master practitioners. The project can be a research project, integrative portfolio or some other sizeable, professional study based on the student’s specialization. Significant importance will be placed on stimulating collaborative student dialogue to think critically, analytically, and comprehensively about the components of their specialization and the design, methodology and output of their capstone projects.
Project individually arranged by student and faculty sponsor. Requires completion of the Independent Study form and approval by the Faculty Sponsor, Academic Advisor, Department Chair and Academic Dean. Semester(s) Offered: Fall, Spring
Source: SUNY College at Plattsburgh's catalog, linked per course · table learning_unit · CourseShelf publish 61
