SOCWK 501 - Foundations of Social Work & Social Welfare

3 credit(s)
This foundation course introduces students to the historical roots of the social work profession and social welfare in the United States. The person-in-environment perspective is discussed as the framework for social work knowledge, values, and skills. This initial course in the MSW curriculum is designed to introduce the student to the social work profession, professional values, ethics, fields of practice, and the planned change process. The profession’s commitment to diverse and at-risk populations and social/economic justice is highlighted. The historical development of major social welfare programs and policies in the U.S. will be a major focus of this course.