Course: SWRK 510. Generalist Social Work Theory and Practice I (3)
Prerequisites: Graduate standing; Acceptance to the MSW program. This introductory course is designed to provide students with an overview of the basic knowledge and skills essential to generalist social work practice. Attention is given to the diverse needs of multi-cultural, multi-ethnic and multi-national populations; the nature and application of social work values and ethical principles; the theoretical framework of helping methods; advocacy for social justice; critically conscious engagement, assessment, planning, intervention and evaluation; and the importance of self-reflection. Key themes and concepts include interviewing, engagement, relationship building, and assessment as they relate to trauma informed, strengths-based, anti-oppressive, socially just practice in urban communities. Emphasis is on understanding how intersectionality, power, and privilege affect individuals, couples, families, and small groups in urban communities. Personal and professional values are discussed, along with the use of self, and the importance of evaluation, research, and ethics.