Students will 1) develop an understanding of the mental health aspects of Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD), 2) understand the challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions in people with IDD, 3) understand specific clinical presentations as well as treatment and support adaptations for mental health problems in individuals with IDD, 4) gain insight into the application and adaptation of evidence based and evidence informed practices when working with individuals with IDD and co-occuring mental health conditions and their systems of support and 5) understand the role of social work in supporting individuals with IDD and mental health conditions in various practice contexts.

The course examines the school as a social institution that serves to educate and socialize children into US society and the role of the social worker in the school setting. Readings, activities, and discussions provide practical skills and theory for school social work practice. The course content addresses the history of school social work, integrating social work values into a school setting, systemic needs within school settings, the importance of networking and professional collaboration, and working with diverse and at-risk youth and their families. Students also examine the role of social workers in helping students, schools, and families adjust to and cope with trauma, special education needs, and related topics.

Sexual and gender minorities will be constantly encountered by social workers wherever they work. This course addresses the task of clinical practice with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, asexual, intersex, two-spirit, genderqueer, and beyond (LGBTQ+) people on both personal and professional levels for the social worker. The readings draw from personal perspectives, as well as theoretical and clinical readings from the disciplines of social work, psychology, and assumptions about LGBTQ+ people.

The aim of this course is to prepare students to act as informed human service professionals through a better understanding of social problems, social welfare policy, and the American social welfare system. Students are provided with an overview of the origins and development of social welfare policy in the United States, the political processes in our federal and state systems, and the values and ethics which shape our present social welfare system. The course also helps students examine ways they can influence policy formulation while advocating for human rights and social/economic justice.