Prerequisites for the Professional
Sequence Courses | Professional Social Work Courses
SWK 114 Introduction to Social Work
SWK 206 Marriage and the Family
SWK 215 Experience in Human Services
SWK 236 Cultural Diversity
SWK 276 Native American Studies
SWK 301 Social Welfare Policy and Services
SWK 315 Conflict Resolution, Mediation, and Restorative Justice
SWK 333 Human Behavior and the
Social Environment I
SWK 334 Human Behavior and the Social Environment
II
SWK 335 Human Behavior and the Social Environment
III
SWK 337 Methods of Behavioral Research
SWK 339 Research Methods and Statistical Analysis
SWK 343 The African American Experience
SWK 355 Social Work Practice Theory and Methods
I
SWK 356 Social Work Practice Theory and Methods
II
SWK 357 Social Work Practice Theory and Methods
III
SWK 369 Gerontology
SWK 371 Introduction
to Peace Studies 3 credits
SWK 377 Introduction to Women's
Studies
SWK 379 Professional Seminar
SWK 399 Special Topics
SWK 440 Social Work Practicum I
SWK 441 Social Work Practicum II
SWK 445 Social Work Integrative Seminar
SWK 479 Special Projects
SWK 489 Readings in Social Work
SWK 490 Field Seminar
SWK 499 Research in Social Work
Social Work is a human service profession that works to prevent
social problems; to help people achieve satisfying interpersonal
relationships; to assist individuals, families, small groups, organizations,
and communities dealing with social problems; and to promote social
justice. The mission of the Dana College Social Work Department is
to prepare graduates for competent, ethical generalist social work
practice that contributes to the advancement of social and economic
justice. The goals of the Dana College Social Work Department can
be found online and in the social work handbook and practicum manual.
The goals require the student to master a broad range of knowledge
and skills and to acquire a deep understanding of the values and
ethical standards of the profession of social work.
Graduates of the program are prepared for employment in both rural
and urban settings such as medical hospitals, family service agencies,
community centers, mental health programs, long-term-care centers,
treatment facilities at-risk children and youth, programs for people
with developmental disabilities, state social service agencies, and
child protection and safety programs.
The Dana College Social Work Department has been accredited since
1986 at the baccalaureate level by the Council on Social Work Education
(CSWE). Graduates are qualified to become Certified Social Workers
(baccalaureate level certification) in the state of Nebraska and
other states that certify or license social workers at the baccalaureate
level. (Please see the Social Work Program Director for information
regarding specific states.)
Social Work Major (53
credits of social work and 12 credits of prerequisites)
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Prerequisites
for the Professional Foundation Courses
SOC 103 Introduction to Sociology - 3 credits
PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology - 3 credits
SOC 261 Sociology of the Political Economy - 3 credits
NAT 111 Life Science - 3 credits
SWK 343 African American Experience or SWK 276 Native American Studies - 3
credits
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Professional Social
Work Courses
SWK 114 Introduction to Social Work - 3 credits
SWK 215 Experience in Human Service - 3 credits
SWK 236 Cultural Diversity - 3 credits
SWK 301 Social Welfare Policy and Services - 3 credits
SWK 315 Conflict Resolution, Mediation, and Restorative Justice - 3 credits
SWK 333 Human Behavior and the Social Environment I - 3 credits
SWK 334 Human Behavior and the Social Environment II - 3 credits
SWK 335 Human Behavior and the Social Environment III - 3 credits
SWK 337 Methods of Behavioral Research - 3 credits
SWK 339 Research Methods and Statistical Analysis - 3 credits
SWK 355 Social Work Practice Theory and Methods I - 3 credits
SWK 356 Social Work Practice Theory and Methods II - 3 credits
SWK 357 Social Work Practice Theory and Methods III - 3 credits
Select 3 credits from:
SWK 206 Marriage and the Family
SWK 369 Gerontology
SWK 379 Professional Seminar: Child Welfare
SWK 379 Professional Seminar: Social Work in Health Fields
SWK 440 Social Work Practicum I - 3 - 8 credits
SWK 441 Social Work Practicum II - 5 - 12 credits
SWK 445 Social Work Integrative Seminar - 3 credits
SWK 490 Field Seminar - 2 credits
Other courses approved by Social Work Department
Students with a major in both social work and psychology need
only one statistical methods course, either SWK 339 or PSY 340.
Students may declare themselves to be pre-professional social work
majors at any point in the first two years of their academic program
by notifying the Registrar’s office and the Social Work Department
(DC 108) in order to expedite the assignment of a social work advisor
to the student. Students then meet with their advisors frequently
to plan their programs of study and to discuss their goals and progress
toward them.
The application for admission to the Social Work Program is normally
done in the spring semester of the sophomore year. Transfer students
may apply during the summer previous to their junior year. Transfer
students need to consult with the Social Work Department regarding
arrangements for transferring credits, their programs of study, and
admissions procedures.
To be formally admitted to the Social Work Program, students must:
- Have completed 45 hours of course work with a minimum GPA of
2.5.
- Have completed 39.114 Introduction to Social Work, and 39.215
Experience in Human Service with a social work course GPA of at
least 3.0.
- Have demonstrated competence in written and oral communication
by completing the Dana College General Education baseline competencies
for written and oral communication skills with a minimum grade
of “C” in each course. Students who exhibit problems
in written communication may be asked to work with tutors in the
Learning Center to develop mastery in this area.
- Complete an application form (available in the Social Work Office,
DC 108) for admission to the Social Work Program. This application
includes: basic biographical data; information on employment and
volunteer experiences; questions regarding the student’s
interest, readiness, and suitability for a career in social work;
and references.
(Students transferring course work from another accredited social work program
will be expected to provide the Social Work Program faculty with the names
of two references from the program.)
Students are also asked for full disclosure of any of the following:
• Current alcohol and/or substance abuse problems and treatment (if the
applicant is currently in treatment, an independent psychological evaluation
and assessment by a recognized agency may be required);
• Conviction of any felony and/or conviction of any misdemeanor that involved
bodily harm to another;
• Students who are involved in treatment for substance dependency, emotional
problems, and/or mental illness must sign a release of information form in order
that the Social Work Program faculty may have access to relevant information
on the applicant’s course of treatment.
- Submit a current copy of her/his transcript.
- Be successfully reviewed by the Social Work Program faculty.
When more information is needed for a decision, the faculty will
interview applicants. All information obtained through this process
will be held in confidence. Knowingly making a false oral or written
statement during the admission process could result in denial or
revocation of admission to the program.
- Sign a statement indicating that she/he has read and will follow
the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers
(to be found in the Social Work Student Handbook).
Applicants will be notified in writing of the decision regarding
their admission to the program. The four possible outcomes of the
admissions process are:
a) Acceptance into the Program.
b) Conditional acceptance into the Program. In this case, the applicant
will be notified of specific areas which, in the professional judgment
of the Social Work Program faculty, need improvement and/or correction.
A contract between the Program and the student for the improvement
and/or correction of the specific areas will be made. The faculty
will review the student’s work at mid-semester and at the end
of the semester to determine if the improvement/correction is adequate
for the student to receive accepted status.
c) Delayed decision. The applicant will be notified of specific
conditions which must be met before admission will be reconsidered.
d) Denial. The applicant will be notified of specific reasons for
rejection of her/his application for admission.
For additional information on admissions procedures, please see
the Social Work Student Handbook, which is available in the Social
Work Office, DCC 108. The Handbook may also be found on the Social
Work webpage (www.dana.edu/socialwork/majors.html).
Social Work majors take a minimum of nine credit hours of the practicum,
SWK 440 and SWK 441 and 5 credit hours of concurrent seminars, SWK
445 and SWK 490. One Practicum credit hour requires 45 hours of supervised
work in an approved social agency. SWK 440 Practicum I is offered
in the fall semester and must be taken concurrently with SWK 445,
Integrative Seminar. SWK 441, Practicum II, is offered in the spring
semester and during the summer and must be taken concurrently with
SWK 490, Field Seminar. Please see Practicum Manual (available at
the Social Work Office or at www.dana.edu/socialwork/majors.html)
for more information about the practicum.
The Student Social Work Handbook is available in the Social Work
Department to students interested in a social work major. It explains
the advancement policy and the curriculum more fully and gives further
information on the field of social work. The Social Work Handbook
is available on the Social Work webpage (www.dana.edu/socialwork/majors.html),
or a copy may be obtained in the Social Work Department to students
interested in a social work major. It explains the advancement policy
and the curriculum more fully and gives further information on the
field of social work.
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Social Work Minor (21
Credits)
SWK 114 Introduction to Social Work - 3 credits
SWK 236 Cultural Diversity - 3 credits
SWK 301 Social Welfare Policy and Services - 3 credits
SWK 333 Human Behavior and the Social Environment I - 3 credits
SWK 334 Human Behavior and the Social Environment II - 3 credits
SWK 335 Human Behavior and the Social Environment III - 3 credits
SWK 355 Social Work Practice I - 3 credits
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Social Work
Nondiscrimination Statement
The Social Work Department maintains a proactive stance with regard to the
affirmation of diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
religion, creed, gender, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, political
orientation, or sexual orientation.
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Social Work Courses
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SWK 114 Introduction to
Social Work 3 credits
Designed for the student considering a social work major or desiring to learn
about the function of social welfare in society. Includes historical perspectives
on the development of social services, current issues, and an overview of the
profession of social work.
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SWK 206 Marriage and the
Family 3 credits
Provides a foundation in knowledge, theory and research related to the functioning
of family systems. The course explores gender roles, intimacy, sexuality, the
processes of relationship building, communication, parenting, and diverse family
forms and experiences. Modes of intervention in families are also explored.
(Cross-listed as SOC 206.)
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SWK 215 Experience in Human
Services 3 credits
Supervised volunteer work experience in a social service agency or organization
approved by social work faculty. Emphasis upon understanding and analyzing
social service organizations and the social service delivery system and the
functioning of the professional social worker within the system.
Prerequisites: SWK 114 Introduction to Social Work and permission
of department.
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SWK 236 Cultural Diversity
3 credits
A study of social issues, theories, concepts, patterns of oppression and discrimination,
and family and community life related to the experience of major ethnic groups
in the U.S. It includes an introduction to the history, cultures, world views,
and strengths of contemporary African Americans, Native Americans (especially
Plains tribes), Latinos (with emphasis upon the Chicano experience), Asian
Americans, and Pacific Islanders. The course focuses on developing cultural
competence, building community, and confronting oppression in a pluralistic
society. (Cross-listed as SOC 236.)
Prerequisites: Sophomore standing and SOC 103 Introduction to Sociology
or SWK 114 Introduction to Social Work or permission of instructor.
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SWK 276 Native American
Studies 3 credits
Explores the history of Native Americans as well as various internal
and external influences that have shaped the distinctive lifestyles
of Native cultures.
Includes a study of relations with the dominant society, spirituality, Native
American law, and contemporary society.
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SWK 301 Social Welfare Policy
and Services 3 credits
An examination of the process of social policy development as related to human
need, with special emphasis on high-risk groups. Historical and social context,
economic theory and application, value assumptions and skills required for
policy formulation, analysis and change are studied. Course highlights the
analysis of social policy and service delivery systems.
Prerequisites: SOC 261 Introduction to the Political Economy,
SWK 335 Human Behavior and the Social Environment III and formal
admission to the social
work program.
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SWK 315 Conflict Resolution, Mediation, and Restorative
Justice 3 credits
This course will explore the theory and practice of various methods
of conflict resolution. Mediation and restorative justice will be
stressed along with other common problem-solving methods. Students
will learn about the nature of conflict and the models for intervening
in conflictual
situations. Theories and strategies regarding problem-solving, negotiation,
mediation, and restorative justice will be covered. (Cross-listed
as CRJ 315) (Offered every Spring semester)
Prerequisite: SWK 114 Introduction to Social Work or CRJ 111
Introduction to Criminal Justice and sophomore standing.
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SWK 333 Human Behavior and
the Social Environment I 3 credits
The Human Behavior and the Social Environment sequence provides the student
with a basis for understanding the reciprocal relationship between the individual
and the social environment. This course emphasizes the need for knowledge of
individual biological and behavioral factors in transaction with family, community,
and cultural systems and follows the individual life span development from
birth through adolescence. Individual and family systems in high-risk groups
are emphasized.
Prerequisites: SWK 114 Introduction to Social Work, PSY 101
Introduction to Psychology, SOC 103 Introduction to Sociology,
and NAT 111 Life Science.
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SWK 334 Human Behavior and
the Social Environment II 3 credits
A continuation of SWK 333. This course follows the individual’s development
from young adulthood through old age. Emphasis is placed upon the individual’s
functioning in families, groups, and communities as well as the relationship
between human identity and membership in special groups related to age, gender,
race, ethnicity, and other factors.
Prerequisite: SWK 333 Human Behavior and the Social Environment
I.
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SWK 335 Human Behavior and
the Social Environment III 3 credits
Focuses on the theories, structures, and dynamics of groups, formal organizations,
and communities. Special attention is given to vulnerable populations, social
stratification, and to factors related to diversity, such as social class,
gender, race, and ethnicity.
Prerequisites: SOC 103 Introduction to Sociology, SOC 261
Sociology of the Political Economy, SWK 236 Cultural Diversity,
SWK 333 Human Behavior and the Social Environment I (may be taken
concurrently), and formal admission to the social work program.
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SWK 337 Methods of Behavioral
Research 3 credits
A survey of and actual experience in the methods of research used by behavioral
scientists. Techniques and methods to be covered include: research design,
sampling, instrumentation, questionnaire construction, interviewing, and a
diversity of methodological applications, including the evaluation of one’s
own practice. (Cross-listed as SOC 337)
Prerequisites: SOC 103 Introduction to Sociology, math competency,
and formal admission to the social work program.
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SWK 339 Research
Methods and Statistical Analysis 3 credits
A study of the use of statistics and computers in the analysis of research
data and in the evaluation of human service programs and the professional's
own practice. Emphasis will be placed upon the appropriate use of statistical
methods and tools, the interpretation of data, and statistical analyses currently
used in professional social work and related fields. Lecture 3 hours, computer
lab 1 hour. (Cross-listed as SOC 339)
Prerequisites: SWK 337 Methods of Behavioral Research
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SWK 343 The African American
Experience 3 credits
A study of the social dynamics of African Americans as members of their own
unique communities and as citizens of the mainstream society, focusing on understanding
the social and political forces which shape the African American experience
as a means of competently conducting creative social work practice. (Cross-listed
as SOC 343)
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SWK 355 Social Work Practice
Theory and Methods I 3 credits
Focuses on the values, knowledge and skills basic to generalist social work
practice. Emphasizes communication skills and the problem-solving method combined
with the utilization of research as foundations for practice.
Prerequisites: SWK 276 Native
American Studies or SWK 343 The African American Experience;
and SWK 236 Cultural Diversity, SWK 334 Human
Behavior and the Social Environment II, SWK 335 Human
Behavior
and the Social Environment III (may be taken concurrently), and
formal admission to the social work program.
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SWK 356 Social Work Practice
Theory and Methods II 3 credits
An expansion of the skills and knowledge base presented in SWK 355. Included
is an examination of social work practice methods appropriate for use with
individuals, families and small groups.
Prerequisite: SWK 355 Social Work Practice I.
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SWK 357 Social Work Practice
Theory and Methods III 3 credits
An examination of the structure and dynamics of a variety of types of organizations
and communities. Student will learn how to use the problem solving method in
organizations and communities for the purposes of providing resources for clients
and working for social justice. Leadership and administrative skills also are
addressed.
Prerequisites: SWK 355 Social Work Practice I and SWK 335
Human Behavior and the Social Environment III.
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SWK 369 Gerontology 3 credits
An introduction to the physical, psychological and social aspects of aging.
Students review the reciprocal relationship between individual and societal
responses to important issues such as work and retirement, family relationships,
and death and dying. Planning, programming, and working with the aged are
included. (Cross-listed as SOC 369)
Prerequisite: SWK 334 Human Behavior and the Social Environment
II or permission of department. Offered as needed.
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SWK 371 Introduction to
Peace Studies 3 credits
This course will explore and contrast the characteristics of a culture of war
with a culture of peace. Content will include international perspectives on
war and peace, issues related to social and economic justice, human and civil
rights, and the interconnections of economic inequality and oppression with
global violence. (Cross-listed as SOC 371)
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or permission of instructor.
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SWK 377 Introduction to
Women’s Studies 3 credits
History and theories related to the U.S. women’s movement will be presented.
Economic, social, cultural, and political forces will be analyzed to assess their
relationship to the lowered status of women world-wide. Strategies employed to
overcome obstacles in order to obtain social rights and opportunities will be
presented.
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SWK 379 Professional Seminar
3 credits
An examination of special social work practice issues, as well as fields of
practice.
The following topics will be offered on an alternating basis with others offered
as needed: Theory and Practice of Mediation, Social Work in Health Fields,
Social Work Practice and Developmental Disabilities, Child Welfare, Practice
Issues in the Latino Community.
Prerequisites: SWK 114 Introduction to Social Work, sophomore
standing, and admission to the professional sequence.
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SWK 399 Special Topics 1-3
credits
A selected area of study in social work. The topic is announced in the appropriate
semester’s course schedule.
Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or permission of instructor.
Offered as needed.
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SWK 440 Social Work Practicum
I 3-8 credits
A supervised introductory field practicum focused on the development of professional
generalist social work practice knowledge, skills, and ethics within an approved
social agency setting. Students work 45 hours in practicum agency for each
hour of credit.
Prerequisites: Senior standing and acceptance to the practicum
(through application process).
Co-requisite: SWK 445 Social Work Integrative Seminar.
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SWK 441 Social Work Practicum
II 5-12 credits
Supervised field practicum focused on the development of professional generalist
social work practice knowledge, skills, and ethics within an agency setting. Students
work 45 hours in practicum agency for each
hour of credit.
Prerequisites: Senior standing, SWK 440 Social Work Practicum
I and acceptance to practicum (through application process).
Co-requisite: SWK 490 Field Seminar.
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SWK 445 Social Work Integrative
Seminar 3 credits
This seminar is to be taken concurrently with SWK 440 Social Work Practicum
I. The course is designed to assist students in professional self-assessment
as related to departmental objectives as well as integration of knowledge,
skill, and values/ethics base. Emphasis will be placed upon effective functioning
in professional social work practice roles in social agency settings.
Prerequisites: Senior standing and acceptance into the practicum
(through application process).
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SWK 479 Special
Projects 1-3 credits
An opportunity for advanced students to undertake special projects in fields
of interest to them under the supervision of a faculty member.
Prerequisites: 12 hours of social work and permission of department.
SWK 489 Readings in Social Work 1-3 credits
In-depth readings in a specific area of social work. The student is expected
to meet regularly with a faculty member.
Prerequisites: 12 credits in social work and permission of
department.
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SWK 490 Field Seminar 2
credits
An integrating seminar designed to be taken concurrently with Practicum II.
Emphasis is on the development of professional skill levels through specific
assignments related to field experience.
Co-requisite: SWK 441 Social Work Practicum II.
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SWK 499 Research in Social
Work 1-3 credits
An opportunity for advanced students to plan and carry out an independent research
project under the supervision of a faculty member.
Prerequisites: 12 credits in social work and permission of
department.
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Last Updated on
February 27, 2007
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