This undergraduate course introduces students to the dynamic field of social work, rooted in compassion and justice. Exploring the profession’s history, values, and ethical principles, students examine social work’s role in addressing societal challenges like poverty, inequality, and injustice. Through case studies, discussions, and reflective exercises, the course covers key practice areas, including child welfare, mental health, and community advocacy. Students will develop foundational skills in empathy, cultural competence, and ethical decision-making, preparing them to serve diverse populations. Emphasizing a missional perspective, the course integrates faith-based principles with professional practice, encouraging students to view social work as a calling to promote human dignity and social change. Designed for aspiring social workers and those interested in human services, this course offers a comprehensive overview of the profession’s scope and impact.
This course equips students with essential knowledge and skills for a career in social work or related fields. By exploring social work’s core principles, students develop empathy, cultural sensitivity, and ethical reasoning, enabling them to engage effectively with diverse communities. Practical case studies and reflective exercises foster critical thinking and communication skills, vital for advocacy and client support. The course’s missional focus integrates faith and service, inspiring students to address societal challenges with compassion and purpose. Students gain a clear understanding of social work’s diverse roles, from child welfare to community development, preparing them for further study or entry-level roles in human services. This transformative learning experience empowers students to make a meaningful impact.
Introduction to Social Work is vital for fostering compassionate leaders equipped to tackle pressing social issues. In a world marked by inequality, poverty, and systemic injustice, social work serves as a critical force for change. This course provides students with a foundational understanding of the profession’s mission to empower individuals and communities. By blending theoretical knowledge with a missional perspective, it cultivates a commitment to ethical practice and social justice. Students learn to navigate complex social systems and advocate for marginalized populations, addressing real-world challenges. The course’s emphasis on cultural competence and empathy prepares students to serve diverse populations, making it essential for those called to promote human dignity and societal transformation through service-oriented careers.
The Introduction to Social Work course aligns with biblical principles by emphasizing compassion, justice, and service to others, reflecting Christ’s call to love and serve the marginalized. Grounded in scripture, the course explores social work as a ministry of reconciliation, promoting human dignity and addressing systemic injustices like poverty and inequality. Students engage with ethical frameworks rooted in biblical values, learning to apply these principles in professional practice. Through reflective exercises, they connect faith with action, fostering a commitment to serve as stewards of God’s justice, making the course a foundation for biblically-inspired social work.
This course embodies a missional approach by viewing social work as a calling to serve and transform communities. Students are encouraged to see their work as part of God’s mission to restore justice and compassion in the world. Through case studies and discussions, the course equips students to address societal challenges like poverty and oppression with purpose and empathy. By integrating faith-based principles with professional practice, it inspires students to engage in advocacy and service as acts of mission, preparing them to impact lives and communities with a Christ-centered commitment to social change
Introduction to Social Work is contextually-informed, teaching students to assess and respond to the unique social, economic, and cultural contexts of the communities they serve. Through real-world case studies, students analyze how factors like poverty, systemic inequality, and local resources shape social work practice. The course emphasizes adapting interventions to specific community needs, ensuring relevance and effectiveness. By integrating a missional perspective, it encourages students to consider spiritual and cultural contexts, preparing them to address complex social issues with informed, tailored solutions that respect and respond to the realities of diverse populations.
The course fosters intercultural competence by preparing students to work effectively with diverse populations. It emphasizes understanding cultural, racial, and socioeconomic differences, equipping students to address the unique needs of individuals and communities. Through case studies and reflective exercises, students explore cultural humility and sensitivity, learning to navigate cross-cultural interactions with respect and empathy. The course’s missional perspective encourages students to embrace diversity as a reflection of God’s creation, promoting inclusive practices in social work. This intercultural focus ensures graduates are ready to serve in multicultural settings, advancing equity and justice.
The course is practically-minded, equipping students with actionable skills for social work practice. Through case studies, role-playing, and ethical decision-making exercises, students develop competencies in client engagement, advocacy, and resource navigation. The curriculum covers practical areas like child welfare, mental health, and community development, preparing students for real-world challenges. By blending missional values with professional techniques, the course ensures students can translate theory into effective practice. This hands-on approach fosters confidence and readiness, enabling students to make an immediate impact in human services or further studies in social work.
This course is experientially-transformed, engaging students in reflective and interactive learning that fosters personal and professional growth. Through case studies, discussions, and reflective exercises, students confront real-world social issues, deepening their empathy and commitment to service. The missional focus encourages students to view social work as a transformative calling, shaping their worldview and values. By exploring their own biases and experiences, students undergo personal transformation, preparing them to effect change in others’ lives. This experiential approach ensures graduates emerge with a renewed sense of purpose and readiness to serve.
