Department of Social Work Objectives

The Department of Social Work seeks to promote the development of ten core competencies in our students. These ten core competencies are derived from the Council on Social Work Education's Educational Policy 3.0 that outlines 12 Foundation Program Objectives, which the department has augmented with advanced program objectives (where numbers are subdivided into B, for baccalaureate, and M, for master's) to establish ten departmental program objectives.

1. Practice with values, ethics, and historical traditions of the social work profession (goal 1.)

2. Understand the distinctive characteristics of divers populations as well as the nature of oppression and discrimination and the implications these have for practice with client systems of all sizes, i.e., individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (goal 1).

3. Utilize a biopsychosocial strengths-based perspecitve to guide assessment and intervention efforts with client systems of all sizes (goal 1).

4. B. Critically evaluate and apply the theoretical and empirical knowledge and skills of generalist social work to practice in the pre-engagement through the ending phases with client systems of all sizes (goals 1 and 2).

   M. Critically evaluate and apply the theoretical and empirical knowledge and skills of generalist and advanced perspectives to practice in the pre-engagement through the ending phases with client systems of all sizes (goals 1 and 2).

5. Using appropriate oral and written communication skills with client systems of all sizes (goal 1).

6. Utilize information technology to enhance effectiveness as social work professionals (goal 1).

7. B. Through use of supervision, demonstrate self-awareness and professional use of self to enhance professional social work practice with client systems of all sizes (goal 1).

   M. Through use of supervision and independently, demonstrate self-awareness and professional use of self to enhance professional social work practice with client systems of all sizes (goal 1).

8. Assess practice effectiveness, evaluate research findings, apply research knowledge, and conduct independent research to enhance practice interventions. (goal 2).

9. Analyze the impact of social policies and agency structures on clients, workers, and the delivery of social work services and promote organizational change, where warranted (goal 3).

10. Advocate through professional and political means, for policies and programs that address the social and economic well-being of clients and others in need of assistance (goal 3).