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Global Social Work


6 core (required) credit hours 

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Objectives:

  • Define globalization in relation to social work theory and practice.
  • Define global social work issues faced by individuals, families, and communities around the world.
  • Understand the roles played by key United Nations programs, international social work federations and non-governmental organizations in contributing to human rights and social development.
  • Illustrate the application of social work values, ethics, and practice to the development of strategies for global change related to key social issues including poverty, gender inequality, health, mental health, ethnic conflict, violence, migration/immigration, and child welfare.
  • Demonstrate skills in implementing evidence informed interventions aimed at creating sustainable social development and conflict resolution.
  • Utilize intercultural communication skills and culturally informed practices with vulnerable populations.
  • Articulate how social work values, skills, and knowledge about social work practices abroad are applicable to local, regional, and international social development goals and programs.
  • Understand global systemic oppression and how to promote social justice.
  • Demonstrate skills in working with interdisciplinary teams and developing community partnerships to address global issues.

Reminders:

  • Students must take one additional Practice class outside their primary Area of Focus (AOF) to meet graduation requirements. For example, if Global Social Work is the student’s primary AOF, they would be required to take an additional Practice course in another AOF such as Aging in Social Work, Child Welfare in Social Work, Forensic Social Work, Health in Social Work, Mental Health in Social Work, or Substance Use in Social Work.
  • The Global Social Work AOF is not available to students in the Three-Year or Online Programs.
  • Students may take up to 16 credit hours in any one semester without requiring pre-approval from the MSW Program Director.
  • Students in the Advanced Standing program must complete a minimum of 45 credit hours.
  • Students in the two-year program must complete a minimum of 60 credit hours.
  • Students must earn a passing grade of C+ or better.
  • Students must maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA in order to be in good academic standing.

Types of Practicum Placements:
Schools; community-based programs serving the physical and mental health needs of refugees and immigrants; social services agencies abroad (possible by special arrangement).

Last Updated: 1/30/23