SOW 125 - Introduction to Social Welfare

 
Description
This course introduces students to the historical development, purpose and functions of social welfare systems in the United States and around the globe. Students examine the social, economic and political forces that shape policies and programs designed to address human needs. Emphasis is placed on the evolution of social work as a profession, core social work values and the advocacy strategies used to address inequity, marginalization and social injustice. Students analyze current policies affecting vulnerable populations and develop foundational skills in critical thinking, policy analysis and systems-level advocacy.

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 125 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:

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

1. Describe how historical, economic, and political forces shaped the development of social welfare policy and practice. (CSWE Competencies 2, 5)
2. Explain the emergence of social work as a profession and its role in advancing social justice. (CSWE Competencies 1, 2, 5)
3. Identify core social work values and ethical responsibilities in relation to policy and advocacy. (CSWE Competencies 1, 5)
4. Analyze the impact of social policies on diverse and vulnerable populations. (CSWE Competencies 2, 3, 5)
5. Evaluate contemporary social problems using a person-in-environment perspective. (CSWE Competencies 3, 6)
6. Examine the role of personal attitudes, privilege and systemic oppression in shaping social policy. (CSWE Competencies 2, 3)
7. Apply foundational concepts of policy development, advocacy and political empowerment to social work practice. (CSWE Competency 5)

1. History of social work and social welfare
2. U.S. and global welfare systems
3. Values and ethics in social policy
4. Structural inequality and social problems
5. Vulnerable populations and human needs
6. Social policy formation and analysis
7. Advocacy, activism and political empowerment
8. Programs addressing poverty, housing, education, healthcare
9. Systems-level practice and reform
10. Future directions in social welfare

• Communication
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
• Culture Society & Citizenship
• Information Literacy

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