SOW 103 - Introduction to Case Management

Credits: 3
3 Lecture Hours

Description
This course provides an overview of the theory and practice of case management across both individual and community settings. Students examine the roles and responsibilities of entry-level case managers, including client engagement, assessment, goal-setting and advocacy. Emphasis is placed on documentation, ethical decision-making and interagency collaboration. Students explore how technology is used to track and manage caseloads, maintain electronic client records, improve communication and enhance service delivery and productivity in modern human service environments.

CSWE Competencies Addressed

This course is designed in accordance with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) 2022 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS). As a foundational course in the social work curriculum, SOW 103 addresses competencies required for accredited social work programs. The following competencies align with the course learning outcomes and prepare students for continued study and future licensure pathways:

Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
Competency 2: Engage Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) in Practice
Competency 3: Engage Anti-Racism in Practice
Competency 5: Engage in Policy Practice
Competency 6: Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations and Communities
Competency 8: Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations and Communities

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will:

Analyze the historical evolution and core functions of case management. (CSWE Competencies 1, 6)
Explain the role and responsibilities of case managers in diverse practice settings. (CSWE Competencies 1, 6, 8)
Demonstrate foundational interpersonal skills and ethical boundaries required for effective case management. (CSWE Competency 1)
Identify and apply strategies for resource identification, referral and service coordination. (CSWE Competencies 6, 8)
Document client interactions and manage caseloads using appropriate technology and electronic recordkeeping tools. (CSWE Competency 1)
Engage in culturally responsive and client-centered approaches with special populations. (CSWE Competencies 2, 3, 6)
Apply problem-solving and advocacy strategies to real-world case scenarios. (CSWE Competencies 3, 5, 6)

Listed Topics

Defining case management and its history
Case management settings and models
Outreach, referral, pre-screening and intake
Assessment, goal-setting and service planning
Boundaries, communication and disengagement
Monitoring, re-assessing and outcome evaluation
Inter-agency collaboration and community resources
Linking clients to informal support networks
Use of electronic records and data tracking tools
Ethical documentation and privacy
Advocacy and intervention with special populations
Program design and systems navigation

Reference Materials
Current textbook/materials as deemed appropriate by instructor

Students who successfully complete this course acquire general knowledge, skills and abilities that align with CCAC’s definition of an educated person. Specifically, this course fulfills these General Education Goals:

Communication
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Culture Society & Citizenship
Technological Competence

Approved By: Dr. Quintin B. Bullock Date Approved: 05/14/2025
Last Reviewed: 05/14/2025

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