A course offering students who think they would like to work with others, an opportunity to explore the field of professional social work and to assess their own aptitude and interest in a major in social work. Students planning careers in related professions such as criminal justice, ministry, or allied health may wish to learn about social work, as well. The course includes a brief history of the profession and an overview of major social welfare needs and services in the U.S. Problems which social workers encounter in their practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities are presented, and a generalist problem-solving perspective is introduced.
Students visit social work agencies and meet professional social workers.
Offered in the fall and spring. A course designed for students exploring social work as a career choice. Students are assigned to a human service agency for a minimum of 65 hours during the semester. Written requirements include a journal and descriptive agency analysis. Field faculty and students complete a written evaluation of performance in the agency setting.