Department of Social Work
Dr. Patricia Desrosiers, Department Chair
Academic Complex, Office 210
Phone: 270-745-5312; Fax: 270-745-6841
Website: http://www.wku.edu/socialwork
The undergraduate social work program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
The social work profession grew out of societal concerns about individual and social problems associated with the distribution of resources and opportunities. Today’s social workers address social issues related to stresses on individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities. As professionals, social workers give their attention to inequities in the distribution of resources and opportunities and other factors interfering with persons’ ability to reach their full potential.
The undergraduate social work program depends on a strong liberal arts base and a generalist practice foundation to achieve its mission and goals. The mission of the BSW program at WKU is to prepare culturally competent social workers for practice with diverse communities and client systems. The program promotes a commitment to professional ethics, leadership, professionalism, social justice, and lifelong learning in order for graduates to practice effectively in a global community. For more information regarding the BSW program and its goals, please visit the departmental webpage: http://www.wku.edu/socialwork/bsw.
When planning a program of study in this department, each student should be aware of the University’s academic requirements and regulations contained in this catalog in the chapter “Academic Information.” Specific attention should be given to the subsections in the chapter entitled (a) Academic Programs, (b) Colonnade Requirements, and (c) Academic Requirements and Regulations. Students should be aware that some academic programs may require additional scholastic regulations and standards not specified in the catalog. To obtain a copy of these regulations, students should contact the department or visit the departmental webpage.
Students may be required to undergo criminal background checks and drug testing and to provide proof of health insurance, liability insurance, and/or immunization records prior to participating in any required experiences at selected off-campus facilities/agencies. Additionally, there may be certifications, training seminars, or other requirements specified by the facility/agency that a student must meet in order to be eligible for field or practical experiences at the facility. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all institutional and/or facility requirements are met as a condition of participating in the off-campus experiences; students may be responsible in part or in full for any costs incurred to meet such requirements. Students are also responsible for transportation to and from off-campus experiences.
Faculty
Professor
Amy C. Cappiccie PhD (Social Work), University of Louisville, 2006
Patricia L. Desrosiers PhD (Social Work), University of Louisville, 2009
Wesley J. Gabbard PhD (Social Work), The University of Alabama, 2004
Gayle M. Mallinger PhD (Social Work), University of Pitts Pittsburgh Camp, 2010
Larry W. Owens EdD (Leadership Education), Spalding University, 2007
Dana J. Sullivan PhD (Social Work), University of Louisville, 2003
Associate Professor
Austin G. Griffiths PhD (Social Work), University of Kentucky, 2017
Whitney R. Harper PhD (Human Devl and Family Studies), Michigan State University, 2015
Assistant Professor
Daniel A. Boamah PhD (Social Work), University of Louisville, 2020
Erin T. Warfel DSW (Social Work), University of Saint Thomas, 2022
Pedagogical Assistant Professor
Whitney Cassity Caywood PhD (Social Work), University of Louisville, 2005
Instructor I
Lynn M. Hazlett PhD, University of Kentucky, 2022
Monica G. Hines MSW (Social Work), Western Kentucky University, 2010
Shannon M. Sales EdD (Educational Leadership), Western Kentucky University, 2013
Instructor II
Allison Gibson MSSW (Social Work), University of Louisville, 2005
Social Work (SWRK)
SWRK 101 Foundations of Human Services 3 Hours
Starting with the basic principles, concepts and a historical perspective, the course will examine problems addressed by diverse social service programs and explore their activities. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code E-SB | SB
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; summer 2024; fall 2024
SWRK 300 Diversity and Social Welfare 3 Hours
This course engages students in the analysis of the nature and impact of economics, political and social ideologies, and cultural forces that shape the development of social welfare policies impacting diverse populations in the United States and abroad. The course emphasizes comparative approaches to the analysis of welfare policies influencing service delivery locally and globally. Policies covered include those that address: poverty, public assistance, health and behavioral health care, criminal justice, child welfare, food insecurity, and homelessness. Specific attention will be paid to the implications of social welfare policies for economic, environmental, and social justice issues and their impact on marginalized populations. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-LG
Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status
Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2024; fall 2024
SWRK 301 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Human Services 3 Hours
Explores how students' personal identity and experiences shape their view of social, economic, and environmental justice issues affecting marginalized populations. Focuses on building upon this understanding to begin to develop cultural competence in preparation for social work practice with vulnerable client systems. Note: Admission to the BSW program required.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 101 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Social Work (459) or Social Work (594)
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
SWRK 305 Environmental Justice: Theory, Policy, and Practice 3 Hours
Relationships between the environment and inequity with regard to race/ethnicity and social class are explored by introducing key theories, policies and intervention skills related to environmental justice. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY
Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; winter 2024
SWRK 310 Introduction to Substance Use Assessment and Treatment 3 Hours
Examines substance use disorders and the theories, techniques, and practices of substance use assessment and treatment. Students will learn to utilize assessment instruments, analyze/interpret data, document assessments and make appropriate treatment recommendations. Learning how to adapt best practices to serve marginalized populations will be addressed. The different levels of care options will be reviewed, as well as harm reduction and peer support programs.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
SWRK 311 Understanding Intergenerational Trauma 3 Hours
Clinicians and researchers have become increasingly aware that the effects of trauma suffered by one generation have physical and psychological effects on their descendants. These consequences manifest in higher rates of physical illness, mental health issues, addiction disorders, and the breakdown of family and community structures. This course introduces students to the concepts associated with intergenerational trauma. Emphasis is placed on resilience, multicultural issues, and systems factors. Course objectives are achieved using experiential exercises, class discussions, didactic presentations, podcasts, and/or films, which encourage students to develop skills in critical thinking. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SC
Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status
Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2023; fall 2023; summer 2024; fall 2024
SWRK 313 Co-occurring Disorders 3 Hours
Introduction to co-occurring disorders and treatment needs of those who have a mental health disorder in combination with a substance abuse disorder. Students will learn to identify, examine, screen and gain knowledge in assessment tools to evaluate the presence and severity of co-occurring disorders. Explores evidence informed treatment models for diverse populations with co-occurring disorders.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2024
SWRK 320 Introduction of Substance Use Counseling Skills 3 Hours
This course is designed to introduce the counseling skills necessary to develop an effective helping relationship with clients with substance use issues. Students will be introduced to evidenced-based treatment approaches in individual and group treatment, including psycho-education, motivational interviewing, case management, and trauma informed principles. Additionally, students will develop culturally responsive skills essential in decreasing disparities in the field of substance use. Upon completion of this course, students will demonstrate this knowledge in treatment planning, documentation, and referral.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
SWRK 324 Opioid Epidemic 3 Hours
Prepares students to recognize the repercussions of opioid addiction, address root causes of the crisis, and review federal, state, and local policies aimed at reducing opioid use. The role of the social environment, implications of culture, access, and policy regarding substance abuse services are applied to opioid-related issues.
Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023
SWRK 326 Services for the Older American 3 Hours
This course focuses on individual and societal aspects of aging with emphasis on programs, resources and services to meet the social tasks of later life. Field trips to off-campus locations are required. Students are responsible for providing their own transportation.
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior or Freshman may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022
SWRK 330 Human Behavior in the Social Environment 3 Hours
The social, natural, and behavioral sciences are used to examine human behavior across the life span, especially as influenced by ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, and ability. Colonnade/Statewide General Education Code K-SY
Prerequisite(s): 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations Courses, or junior status
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; summer 2022; fall 2022; spring 2023; summer 2023; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
SWRK 344 Social Work Statistics and Data Analysis 3 Hours
Enrollment limited to a social work major or minor.An introduction to descriptive and inferential statistics, focusing on integrating research and social work practice, and computer applications in research.
Prerequisite(s): (MATH 109 or MATH 112 or MATH 115 or MATH 116 or MATH 117 or MATH 123 or MATH 136 or MATH 183 or CS 146 or PHIL 215)
Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2022; fall 2023; spring 2024; fall 2024
SWRK 345 Social Work Research Methods 3 Hours
An introduction to concepts, research design, and program evaluation in social work research. Emphasis will be placed on developing skills in utilizing research information in social work practice.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 378 and SWRK 379)
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
SWRK 356 Services for Juvenile Offenders and Their Families 3 Hours
The nature and extent of delinquency, structure, and function of the juvenile court will be stressed. Emphasis will be on the provision of services to the juvenile offenders and their families. Field trips to off-campus locations are required. Students are responsible for providing their own transportation.
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior or Freshman may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
SWRK 357 Case Management 3 Hours
This course introduces students to the fundamental aspects of case management (service coordination), including common case management roles, processes, responsibilities, and employment challenges. Major content areas include: case management roles, (including advocate, broker, resource coordinator), the roles and responsibilities of the multidisciplinary team (including nurses, social worker, physicians, and other disciplines), case management with special populations(forensic,geriatric, children, diverse populations), and the responsibilities of a case manager working in health care and mental health settings. Students will be introduced to the employment challenges of case management (types of programs that hire case managers, workforce retention issues, expectations of case manager, and job satisfaction). Students will develop familiarity with how case managers and clients interface with individual, group, and family systems. Students will develop knowledge of case ma nagement ethics and explore common ethical dilemmas and boundaries issues that confront case managers.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
SWRK 375 Social Work Practice I 3 Hours
The first of three practice classes that equip students with theory and skills for effective generalist social work practice with individuals and their interpersonal networks.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 330 (may be taken concurrently)
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in Social Work (594)
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
SWRK 378 Social Work Practice II 3 Hours
The second of three practice classes that equip students with theory and skills for effective generalist social work practice with groups.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 330 and SWRK 375
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
SWRK 379 Introduction to Social Work Communication Skills 3 Hours
Study and practice of interviewing individuals, families, and groups. The skill of relationship building as it relates to both micro and macro practice of social work is emphasized.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 330 and SWRK 375
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
SWRK 381 Social Work Practice III 3 Hours
The third of three practice classes that equip students with theory and skills for effective generalist social work practice with organizations and communities.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 378 and SWRK 379)
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
SWRK 395 Social Welfare Policy and Issues 3 Hours
An understanding of the historical perspectives of social welfare policies as they affect current policy issues. Includes examination of the processes of policy formulation. Models of policy analysis assist students identifying, and their impact on citizens representing a diversity of backgrounds.
Prerequisite(s): (SWRK 345 and SWRK 381)
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
SWRK 420 Substance Use Professionals Capstone 3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Focuses on substance use counseling competencies and engagement in substance use field education. The Kentucky Board of Alcohol and Drug Counselors (KBADC) requires certified alcohol and drug counselors to be knowledgeable in the following 4 domains: 1. Screening assessment and engagement; 2. Treatment planning, collaboration, and referral; 3. Counseling; 4. Professional and ethical responsibilities. Integrating knowledge of these domains while engaging in 25 field placement hours at a substance use agency.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 324 with a minimum grade of C and SWRK 310 with a minimum grade of C and SWRK 313 with a minimum grade of C and SWRK 320 with a minimum grade of C and SWRK 433 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
SWRK 428 Social Work in Sports 3 Hours
Introduces students to the role of social workers in sport, in practice with athletes. Theories and policies informing social work practice in sport will be examined. Explores the role of social work within an interprofessional collaborative team that works to support athletes. Applies social work values, ethics, and competencies to sport social work. The well-being of the athlete and how to assess those issues, along with sport as a platform for the advancement of social justice, will be emphasized. Course objectives are achieved through the use of experiential exercises, class discussions, didactic presentations, and/or films, which encourage students to develop skills in critical thinking.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None
SWRK 433 Ethical Issues and Dilemmas in Social Work 3 Hours
An examination of professional ethics and common ethical dilemmas in social work. Models of ethical decision making are applied in case vignettes.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2023
SWRK 436 Services to Children 3 Hours
A survey of institutional and community services with focus on principles of social services for children and their families.
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior or Freshman may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
SWRK 437 Military Social Work 3 Hours
This course is designed to increase knowledge and competence in the area of social work services delivered to military personnel, Veterans and their families. Knowledge, values and skills required to work with this special population will be covered, along with evidence-based interventions that would be best suited for this area of social work practice.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
SWRK 438 Understanding Trauma 3 Hours
Comprehensive exploration of trauma with a focus on understanding trauma events, symptoms, theoretical practices and assessment relevant to social services and mental health.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 101 or PSY 100 or PSYS 100
Recent Term(s) Offered: summer 2022; summer 2023
SWRK 450 Child Maltreatment 3 Hours
Comprehensive introduction to child abuse and neglect from a social work perspective. The extent of the problem, effects on children, treatment issues, the social worker's role, and advocacy on behalf of individuals and families are explored. This course is the first of two specific course requirements for the Public Child Welfare Certification Program available through WKU and the Kentucky Cabinet for Families and Children. Note: Consent of Instructor required.
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior or Freshman may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
SWRK 451 Child Maltreatment Interventions 3 Hours
Second of two specific course requirements for the Public Child Welfare Certification Program available through WKU and the Kentucky Cabinet for Families and Children. Covers various practice skills and treatment interventions related to social work with abused neglected children and their families. Students will have several opportunities to develop their own skills through a variety of teaching methods.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 375 and SWRK 450
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
SWRK 455 Integrative Seminar: Strategies for Trauma-Informed Approaches Improving Resilience (STAIR) 1 Hour (repeatable max of 3 hrs)
This integrative seminar provides students the opportunity to reflect on their studies in the STAIR certificate program, synthesize their learning, and connect coursework with future goals. The aim of this course is to facilitate the development of your Capstone E-Portfolio.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 311 with a minimum grade of C and SWRK 330 with a minimum grade of C and SWRK 438 with a minimum grade of C
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2024; fall 2024
SWRK 480 Social Work Field Practicum I 3 Hours
Social Work practice experience in a social service agency. Note: Field director approval required.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 378 and SWRK 379
Corequisite(s): SWRK 481
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman or Sophomore may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
SWRK 481 Social Work Field Seminar I 3 Hours
Integration of the knowledge, skills, values, and experiences gained in the internship. Note: Field director approval required.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 378 and SWRK 379
Corequisite(s): SWRK 480
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior, Freshman or Sophomore may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: fall 2022; fall 2023; fall 2024
SWRK 482 Social Work Field Practicum II 3 Hours
Continued social work practice experience in a social service agency.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 480 with a minimum grade of P and SWRK 481
Corequisite(s): SWRK 483
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
SWRK 483 Social Work Field Seminar II 3 Hours
Integrates the knowledge, skills, values, and experiences gained during the second semester of the internship.
Prerequisite(s): SWRK 480 with a minimum grade of P and SWRK 481
Corequisite(s): SWRK 482
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2022; spring 2023; spring 2024
SWRK 490 Selected Topics in Social Work 3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
This course permits in-depth examination of selected topics in social work. The specific topics vary. May be repeated with different topics.
Recent Term(s) Offered: winter 2022; winter 2023; spring 2023; summer 2023; winter 2024; spring 2024; summer 2024
SWRK 495 Directed Study 1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Available to students who wish to conduct individual, intensive reading and research in a specific area of social work, in close cooperation with supervising faculty. Approval required prior to enrollment.
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior or Freshman may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: spring 2024; fall 2024
SWRK 496 Directed Study 1-3 Hours (repeatable max of 6 hrs)
Available to students who wish to conduct individual, intensive reading and research in a specific area of social work, in close cooperation with supervising faculty. Approval required prior to enrollment.
Restriction(s): Students with a semester level of Academy Junior, Academy Senior or Freshman may not enroll.
Recent Term(s) Offered: None