SOWK 5001 - Skills for Social Work Practice

3 Credits (Minimum) 3 Credits (Maximum)

This course introduces the foundations of the social work profession, including history, values, ethics, and the connections between micro, mezzo, and macro practice. Students learn beginning generalist practice skills through structured activities that support the development of professional behaviors and a clear understanding of the role of the social worker. Motivational interviewing is integrated throughout the semester, with focused practice on rapport building, active listening, attending skills, empathy, reflection, and the use of open-ended questions. Students also learn how to manage silence and strong emotions in sessions, work with diverse clients using cultural humility, set goals with clients, and apply the stages of change. Through frequent role-plays and demonstrations, students strengthen their core helping skills and begin to develop a confident and grounded social work practice. Prer., Graduate Social Work students only. Course typically offered: Fall