University of Calgary : Social Work SOWK

Social Work SOWK

SOWK 201 300 301 302 303 304 305 306 307 355 361 363 365 371 383 391 393 395 397 399 410 411 412 413 551 553 555 557 600 602 604 606 610 612 614 616 620 622 624 626 621 625 627 629 632 633 637 640 641 642 644 645 646 651 653 655 657 659 660 662 665 667 669 670 671 672 673 675 677 679 682 693 695 696 697 699 721 741 743 745 747 749 799

For more information about these courses, see the Faculty of Social Work: fsw.ucalgary.ca.

Notes:

Social Work 201 is open to all students; all other Social Work courses are restricted to BSW students only.
Students must maintain concurrent registration in practica and related integrative seminars.

Junior Courses

Social Work 201

Introduction to Social Work

Provides an overview of the profession of social work and the social policy context within which it is practiced.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3-0)
Notes: Alberta Social Work Post-Diploma students cannot take this course as fulfillment of their non-Social Work course requirements.

Senior Courses

Social Work 300

Generalist Practice in Context Theme Course

Examination of the professional use of self in relation to the knowledge, values, and skills pertaining to the practice of generalist social work practice in rural, remote, and Aboriginal communities.
Course Hours: 6 units; (6-0)

Social Work 301

Generalist Practice in Context Portfolio Project

Individual preparation of a self-directed portfolio as an expression of the student’s own understanding of generalist social work practice in relation to the local context. The student’s prior learning experiences will be incorporated in the development of the project.
Course Hours: 3 units; (1S-2T)
Corequisite(s): Prerequisite or Corequisite: Social Work 300.

Social Work 302

Research in Context Theme Course

An introduction to knowledge generation relevant to generalist social work practice. Foundational concepts and approaches of various research methodologies will be introduced as ways of knowledge building to inform practice and influence policy, particularly within rural, remote and Indigenous contexts.
Course Hours: 6 units; (6-0)

Social Work 303

Practice With Individuals in Context

Focuses on interviewing and counselling skills from a generalist social work perspective. Emphasis will be given to skill development, critical reflection, practice evaluation, and practical application within rural, remote and Indigenous contexts.
Course Hours: 3 units; (1S-2T)

Social Work 304

Diversity and Oppression Theme Course

Examines diversity, colonization, oppression, and intergroup relations associated with the practice of social work in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities. Anti-oppressive frameworks will be introduced for understanding the processes associated with social justice.
Course Hours: 6 units; (6-0)

Social Work 305

Diversity and Oppression Portfolio Project

Individual preparation of a self-directed portfolio as an expression of the student’s own critical analysis of diversity, oppression, and social justice in relation to the local context. Honouring the student’s prior learning experiences by acknowledging and incorporating aspects of that learning in the development of the project.
Course Hours: 3 units; (1S-2T)
Corequisite(s): Prerequisite or Corequisite: Social Work 304.

Social Work 306

Social Work Methods Course

Examines various perspectives and theoretical approaches relating to the development, maintenance, and application of empowering relationships in generalist social work practice. Particular emphasis will be placed on local applications in rural, remote, and Indigenous organizations and communities.
Course Hours: 6 units; (6-0)

Social Work 307

Practice Skills in Context

Focuses on theory and practice relating to social work with individuals, families and groups in diverse communities. Particular emphasis will be paid to skill development, critical analysis and practical application within rural, remote and Indigenous contexts.
Course Hours: 3 units; (1S-2T)

Social Work 355

Research in Context

An introduction to basic research methodology, data analysis and a critical appraisal and application of research findings within a reflective model of practice.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)

Social Work 361

Professional Use of Self

Focuses on the examination and integration of theoretical and practical understandings of professional social work practice. Topics covered include: critical thinking; ethical decision-making; knowledge of the associations to which social work professionals belong; professional writing; and self-care.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)

Social Work 363

Human Development and Environments

Explores the nature of human behaviour and development in diverse environments and contexts (personal, community, social, and environmental) and explores the implications for social work practice and theory.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)

Social Work 365

Critical Approaches to Social Work Practice

Provides theoretical frameworks, including anti-oppressive social work concepts, as a foundation for reflective professional generalist social work.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)

Social Work 371

Social Work and Diversity

Students will critically examine the issues of diversity and the power relations that form common links among the experiences of oppression and marginalization in Canadian society.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)

Social Work 383

Social Policy and Social Justice

Provides an understanding of Canadian social policy, its impact on social justice and how it influences social work practice.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Notes: University Transfer route only.

Social Work 391

Practice and Evaluation with Individuals

An introduction to theories and skills for communicating with people in a professional social work context. Generic interviewing and basic counselling skills from a generalist perspective of social work practice will be developed.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Notes: University Transfer route only.

Social Work 393

Practice and Evaluation with Families

An introduction to theories and skills for family-centred social work practice with families. There will be an emphasis on diversity in relation to family development issues, the stresses families face, family assessment techniques, and theories and practices of family intervention.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Notes: University Transfer route only.

Social Work 395

Practice and Evaluation with Groups

An introduction to theories and skills for working with groups within a context of practice and assessment frameworks.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Notes: University Transfer route only.

Social Work 397

Practice and Evaluation with Communities

An introduction to theories and skills about community practice. The focus will be on understanding the basic values, and ethical, strategic, evaluative and political issues involved in working for community change.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Notes: University Transfer route only.

Social Work 399

Practice and Evaluation with Organizations

An introduction to theories and skills in the study of human service organizations. Examines organizational dynamics and how these impacts professional practice, relationships with clients, and the potential for organizational change.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Notes: University Transfer route only.

Social Work 410

Practicum I

Application of conceptual framework, experience, knowledge and skills within a specific practice setting.
Course Hours: 6 units; (300 hours within one term)
Prerequisite(s): All required 300 level Social Work courses.
NOT INCLUDED IN GPA

Social Work 411

Integrative Seminar I

Integration of theory and practice within the context of the field practicum.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): All required 300 level Social Work courses.
Corequisite(s): Social Work 410.

Social Work 412

Practicum II

Application of professional theory and skills in supervised social work practice settings.
Course Hours: 6 units; (400 hours within one term)
Prerequisite(s): All required 300 level Social Work courses. University Transfer Route: Social Work 410 and 411.
NOT INCLUDED IN GPA

Social Work 413

Integrative Seminar II

Advanced integration of concepts, perspectives, theories and skills with practicum experiences, developing conceptual frameworks of practice.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): All required 300 level Social Work courses. University Transfer Route: Social Work 410 and 411.
Corequisite(s): Social Work 412.

Social Work 551

Selected Topics: Social Work Interventions

Focuses on theory and practice related to social work interventions.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

Social Work 553

Selected Topics: Fields of Practice

Examines contexts, theories, practice models and skill development in specialized fields of practice.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

Social Work 555

Selected Topics: Practice with Selected Populations

Explores contexts, theories and practice models in working with specific populations.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

Social Work 557

Selected Topics: Contexts for Practice

Examines social work practice in specific contexts.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

Graduate Courses

Note: Not all specialization topic courses are offered every academic year. The number of topics will vary across the programs and program locations.

Social Work 600

Social Justice and Theory in Advanced Social Work Practice

Examines concepts of culture, identity, oppression and "differentness" in relationship to theories of social justice, at all levels of professional practice.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program or the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Social Work Practice.

Social Work 602

Research and Philosophy in Advanced Social Work Practice

Explores social work research through examination of various approaches (qualitative and quantitative), paradigms, and methods and applies social work research to theories as students develop their professional practice model.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program or the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Social Work Practice.

Social Work 604

Advanced Practice Theories in Context

Examines theoretical models, philosophical frameworks and ethical foundations of social work practice as a means to facilitate change while locating social work’s development and current practice in historical, economic, political, social and cultural contexts.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 600 and 602.

Social Work 606

Advanced Policy Practice in Context

Explores the influences of public policy on the lives, relationships, and well-being of individuals, families, groups and communities, while examining the relationship between social justice in the policy-making process and the role of social workers in shaping policy.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 600 and 602.

Social Work 610

Advanced Topics in Clinical Social Work I

Examines multiple social work theories, models, and approaches to clinical practice. Clinical social work practice is situated within in historical, economic, political, social and cultural contexts. Critical perspectives, contemporary issues and research debates are discussed.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW with specialization in Clinical Social Work Practice or the Graduate Certificate in Clinical Social Work Practice.

Social Work 612

Advanced Topics in Clinical Practice and Research I

Application of evidence-based and anti-oppression modalities and best practices towards supporting and helping individuals, groups, families and communities.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW with specialization in Clinical Social Work Practice or the Graduate Certificate in Clinical Social Work Practice.

Social Work 614

Advanced Topics in Clinical Social Work II

Examines issues in clinical practice with diverse populations, including Indigenous, Francophone and newcomer populations. Specific treatment modalities and techniques are examined in depth.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 610 and 612.

Social Work 616

Advanced Topics in Clinical Practice and Research II

Considers complicating factors in applying best, promising and ethical practices and techniques in clinical practice with diverse populations. Students will advocate for the needs of diverse and specific populations, including Indigenous Canadians and other minorities. Students will develop and use self-care practice.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 610 and 612.

Social Work 620

Advanced Topics in International and Community Development I

Examines the role of social work and social workers in international and community development work at home and abroad. Theoretical foundations are examined alongside global influences in relation to historical, economic, political, social and cultural contexts. Critical perspectives, contemporary issues and research debates in social development, internationalization and globalization are discussed.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW with specialization in International and Community Development or the Graduate Certificate in International and Community Development.

Social Work 621

History and Foundation of the Profession

An examination of the relationship between knowledge, values, ethics and power and how they shape interventions in social work.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 622

Advanced Topics in Practice and Research in International and Community Development I

Application of theories and concepts of international social work and community development to practice, with a focus on promoting change and challenging structured inequalities. Development of skills, strategies and tools for engaging in international social work and community development in international and North American settings.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW with specialization in International and Community Development or the Graduate Certificate in International and Community Development.

Social Work 624

Advanced Topics in International and Community Development II

Examination of various approaches, strategies, and perspectives for taking action as a social worker in international and community development settings, and growing a professional toolkit of resources and techniques to engage in this work.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 620 and 622.

Social Work 625

Practice with Individuals, Families and Groups

A basic understanding of social work practice theory with respect to work with individuals, families and groups.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 626

Advanced Topics in Practice and Research in International and Community Development II

Designing, creating and evaluating international and community development projects that integrate theory, research, and best practices. Development of greater self-awareness of the role, values, and skills of a social worker engaging in international and community development work.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 620 and 622.

Social Work 627

Practice with Organizations and Communities

A basic understanding of social work practice theory with respect to work with organizations and communities.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 629

Professional Communication and Interviewing

Offers experiential learning aimed at developing basic professional competencies and practice skills along with critical self-reflection.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 632

Social Policy and Social Justice

An exploration of the social, political and economic forces, social movements and social structures that are transforming the Canadian welfare state and the practice of social work.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 633

Foundational Field Practicum

Direct and indirect social work practice opportunities with professional supervision.
Course Hours: 3 units; (426 hours-2T)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.
NOT INCLUDED IN GPA

Social Work 637

Human Behaviour in the Environment

Human development and diversity within a social work context.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 640

Advanced Topics in Leadership in the Human Services I

Examines multiple theories, models and approaches of leadership in the human services. The historical, political, economic, social, and cultural influences impacting human service organizations are examined. Critical perspectives, contemporary issues, and research debates are discussed.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW with specialization in Leadership in the Human Services or the Graduate Certificate in Leadership in the Human Services.

Social Work 641

Models of Practice

Provides the conceptual and theoretical foundation for students to acquire the skills to practice in Social Work.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 642

Advanced Topics in Practice and Research in Leadership in the Human Services I

Integrates leadership theories, models, and approaches in organizational and community practice. Applies evidence-based tools and strategies in assessment, evaluation, intervention, innovation, evaluation, change, and collaboration to develop a professional model of leadership.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW with specialization in Leadership in the Human Services or the Graduate Certificate in Leadership in the Human Services.

Social Work 644

Advanced Topics in Leadership in the Human Services II

Examines issues of diversity, culture, power and oppression in organizational and community practice. The changing roles of leadership in complex systems and changing contexts will be examined. Explores the influences of policy on the human service organization and the practice of leadership in this setting.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 640 and 642.

Social Work 645

Issues in Social Work Research

An overview of social work research topics and issues.
Course Hours: 3 units; H3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 646

Advanced Practice and Research in Leadership in the Human Services II

Enhances skills in facilitation, building trust, managing conflict, and fostering relationships in working with individuals, groups and communities. Integration of practice-based research to inform best practices, policy development and social change.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 640 and 642.

Social Work 651

Policy as Context for Clinical Work

Policies and their impacts on the delivery of clinical work will be examined.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 653

Comparative Approaches to Change

Various clinical change applications will be examined and critiqued.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 655

Thesis Research

An introduction to preparing a thesis proposal.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 657

Clinical Social Work Applications

Specific issues involved in the effective application of clinical approaches will be studied.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 653 and admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 659

Evidence and Clinical Practice

Research as utilized in the clinical arena will be the focus of this course.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 660

Advanced Practicum

Direct and indirect Social Work practice opportunities with professional supervision in student's area of specialization.
Course Hours: 6 units; (500 hours)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program and Social Work 600, 602, 604 and 606.
Corequisite(s): Social Work 662.
NOT INCLUDED IN GPA

Social Work 662

Integrative Seminar

Integration of theory, research applications/evaluation and professional practice in the student's area of specialization; and preparation of a capstone exit requirement.
Course Hours: 3 units; (6S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the course-based MSW program and Social Work 600, 602, 604 and 606.
Corequisite(s): Social Work 660.

Social Work 665

Influencing Policy Development

Focuses on leadership in policy practice and in particular policy advocacy at all levels of policy (i.e., organizational, community, and provincial or national levels).
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 667

Leadership Theories in Action

Directed toward helping prepare leaders for “best practice” across the range of sectors and roles in which human service leaders work.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 669

Leading Organizations and Communities

A practical course that will emphasize networked and collaborative approaches to leadership in a global context.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 667 and admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 670

Advanced Methods and Epistemology in Social Work Research

Enhance skills in understanding the foundations of social work research, including ontologies and epistemology, and their fit with research topics and methods.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW thesis-based program and Social Work 600, 602, 604 and 606.

Social Work 671

Social Policy

Explores social welfare policy in Canada and in a globalizing world, the current roles of social welfare policy, and the roles they should have.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 672

Thesis Research Development

Builds skills for social work thesis research development, including key components of the research process, such as integration of a substantive topic and corresponding research approach.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW thesis-based program and Social Work 600, 602, 604 and 606.

Social Work 673

International Social Development

Examines issues in international social development. There will be an emphasis on analysis of the social forces and conditions giving rise to different models of social development, and on what each of these alternative models tends to produce in terms of social welfare policies and programs.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 675

Advanced International Social Work Modules

This set of modules will give students tools for social change.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 673 and admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 677

Social Work Research for International and Community Methods

International and Community Development Research is designed to provide methodological knowledge and skills specifically oriented to community-based practice abroad or in Canada.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 679

Special Topics Seminar I

Selected topics related to area of specialization or interest.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

Social Work 682

Special Seminar II

Selected topics related to an area of specialization or interest.
Course Hours: 0.75 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

Social Work 693

Research as a Foundation for Leadership

This course will provide students with a working understanding for the study and nature of the theoretical and practical issues underlying the application of the research process to professional and leadership practice.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 695

Becoming an Evidence-Based Leader

Extends students’ abilities to identify, assess, and utilize research knowledge as a problem-solving tool in social work.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Social Work 693 and admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 696

Advanced Practicum

Direct and indirect Social Work practice opportunities with professional supervision in student's area of specialization or interest.
Course Hours: 6 units; (525 hours within two consecutive terms)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.
NOT INCLUDED IN GPA

Social Work 697

Diversity, Oppression and Social Justice

Critical examination of the issues of diversity and the power relations that form common links among the experiences of oppression and marginalization in Canadian society.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.

Social Work 699

Special Topics Seminar II

Advanced selected topics related to area of specialization or interest.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the MSW program.
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

Social Work 721

Integrative Research Colloquia

A concluding course offered as final component of student's course work. Allows doctoral students and the instructor to engage in a series of research colloquia, thereby facilitating critical analysis, feedback and synthesis of materials covered and skills learned in other course work. This process will help students to develop conceptual and methodological skills.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Social Work PhD program.
Notes: Social Work 721 can only be taken once all other required (core and option) courses have been completed.

Social Work 741

Research Foundations: Epistemology and Professional Knowledge-Building

An exploration of major philosophical issues that have shaped social work's diverse approaches to knowledge building and research methods. The relevance of this exploration to the student's area of interest is emphasized.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Social Work PhD program.

Social Work 743

Theory, History and Philosophy: Values, Ethics and Professional Beliefs

An exploration of the philosophical and ideological issues that have been historically important to the profession with respect to its conception of its ethics, mandate and practices. The relevance of this exploration to the student's area of interest in emphasized.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Social Work PhD program.

Social Work 745

Research Methods I: Quantitative

Quantitative methodological and design options in social work research.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Social Work PhD program.

Social Work 747

Research Methods II: Qualitative

Qualitative methodological and design options in social work research.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Social Work PhD program.

Social Work 749

Quantitative Data Analysis

Statistical analysis of quantitative data.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Social Work PhD program.

Social Work 799

Special Topics Seminar

Advanced selected topics related to the PhD focus area.
Course Hours: 3 units; (3S-0)
Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Social Work PhD program.
MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

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