A knowledge of the scientific method is acquired and applied to current research. Students learn to apply critical thinking to professional literature. Students acquire knowledge and skills needed for effective social work practice with diverse populations. The accumulated knowledge and understanding of the social work curriculum come together in the practice courses. Students develop the capacity for critical analysis of social problems, policies, and programs.
Students analyze social work practice to understand the effect of policy on direct service.
Basic policy analysis skills acquired in the first course are applied in specified areas of practice, applying analytical skills to problems, policies, and programs. Students acquire competence as beginning social work practitioners. With instructional supervision in a social work agency, students apply their knowledge and expand their practice skills from their course work to real-life situations. Primary responsibility for meeting graduation requirements rests with the student. A minimum of 124 credit hours of course work, including 10 credit hours of field practicum.