SWK 500 - Social Welfare Policy (3 cr.)

This course overviews the evolution of social welfare policy over time and the role of social work in the development of social policy, but with an emphasis on analyzing contemporary social policy. Concepts about the meaning and purpose of social welfare, ideologies, and values about the role of government and social welfare policy are explored through in-depth analysis of a major social problem. The pedagogical focus of this course uses a social problem/policy model to explore definitions, correlates, causes, and consequences of urban poverty. The same model is also used by students in exploring particular social problems and policies of interest to them. Particular emphasis is placed on analyzing current policy interventions and proposing innovative means to improve them, with an emphasis on the unique contributions of social work.
Prerequisite(s): Student in the MSW program
Semester(s) Offered: Fall