Basic concepts, theories, and skills of social work practice. Lectures and discussions, readings and written exercises, and laboratory and practice sessions. Students use the experiential parts of the course (laboratory and interview simulations) to apply the conceptual and theoretical knowledge.

This foundation course is designed to increase students awareness of historical, social, political, economic and cultural aspects of micro- and macro-level oppression directed at minorities. Course materials focus on insidious societal forces that shape and profoundly alter life experiences of large numbers of people, with special attention to social relationships that promote the welfare of some, while limiting opportunities and choices for others, including racial and ethnic minorities, children, women, the poor, persons with disabilities, GLBTQ individuals, and others. Students consider practice issues in multicultural SW.

This foundation course is designed to increase students awareness of historical, social, political, economic and cultural aspects of micro- and macro-level oppression directed at minorities. Course materials focus on insidious societal forces that shape and profoundly alter life experiences of large numbers of people, with special attention to social relationships that promote the welfare of some, while limiting opportunities and choices for others, including racial and ethnic minorities, children, women, the poor, persons with disabilities, GLBTQ individuals, and others. Students consider practice issues in multicultural SW.

In this course, students learn about behavior and development and its context across the lifecycle. The semester addresses growth and development from the prenatal period through the end of life using social systems theory/person-in-the-environment as a conceptual framework. The different systems that impact individual development including family, community, and larger systems are examined. Human worth and social justice themes permeate course materials, class discussions, and activities.