Social Work: 5-Year (BSW/MSW)

This course provides students with an understanding of co-occurring disorders, related concepts and theories, and the inter-relationship between mental health issues and substance use and abuse. Mental health issues and substance abuse are examined using the DSM, with specific attention to key symptomology and increased risk. Screening and assessment tools and intervention strategies for co-occurring disorders are also explored. The use of self in a professional setting and cultural considerations will also be examined. Students will gain an understanding of the implications of current policy on individuals, families, communities, and agencies as it relates to mental health and substance use disorders.

Social workers are often employed by, and tasked with leading, complex nonprofit organizations and social service agencies that enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and communities. This course aims to provide students with the necessary skills to manage and lead in these complex environments. Students will identify their own theory of leadership and how leadership applies to organizational management and identify organizational structures and the processes for managing and developing programs within them. Students also develop supervisory skills and learn to mentor employees. Ultimately, this course prepares students for the arduous, but necessary, task of transitioning from direct practice to a leadership role within the social work profession.

This course emphasizes the application of advanced theory and practice principles for working with children and families in diverse practice settings. Coursework provides students the opportunity to consider approaches of current and emerging models of service delivery across the spectrum of clinical intervention settings, as well as more system intervention. Models of child and family practice that promote the well-being of children and their families are considered throughout this course.