Education and Social Work Menu
Bachelor of Social Work Courses
Please see the Degree Planning page for Degree Completion Requirements.
Third year
Students in their third year of study normally take SOCW 3000, 3010, 3040, 3060, 3530, 3540, as well as Social Work electives and/or General University Studies (arts/science) or discretionary credit courses. If students have not completed the human development requirement prior to admission, they may choose to complete SOCW 3550 in year 3.
Summer semester
The course offerings for BSW summer session vary from year to year. Please check the summer schedule or contact the Program Advisor for potential summer offerings.
Fourth year
Students in their fourth year typically will take SOCW 4020, SOCW 4010, SOCW 4540 and any remaining SOCW electives, General University Studies (arts/science) and/or discretionary credits.
SOCW 2060 Introduction to Social Work Practice (3,0,0) SOCW 2060 Introduction to Social Work Practice (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students explore the history, philosophical foundation, and theoretical perspectives of the profession of social work, including a review of the relevant codes of ethics and practice standards that guide practitioners. This course provides an overview of the roles in which social workers become involved, for example, as advocates, policy analysts, administrators, activists, educators, counsellors, facilitators, mediators, organizers, and researchers. Social workers are committed to working for social justice; therefore, students examine the social structures that influence people's lives and how various sources and forms of oppression and marginalization impact the lives of people in Canadian society.
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SOCW 2120 An Introduction to Social Welfare in Canada (3,0,0) SOCW 2120 An Introduction to Social Welfare in Canada (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students are introduced to the Canadian welfare state and the response of the federal and provincial governments to poverty in Canada. An overview of the historical development of social security policies and programs in Canada is provided, and the influence of ideology on policy is discussed. The impact of policy on youth, women, older persons, and Aboriginal peoples is described. The human service/social worker's role in formulating and influencing policy is considered.
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SOCW 3000 Canadian Social Policy (3,0,0) SOCW 3000 Canadian Social Policy (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits This course explores the socio-historical, economic, ideological, and institutional contexts for the development of social policy in Canada. Students discuss the policy making process, as well as the role of social policy in processes of inclusion, exclusion, marginalization, and oppression. A critical analysis of selected social policies is emphasized.
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SOCW 3010 Introduction to Social Work Research (3,0,0) SOCW 3010 Introduction to Social Work Research (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students explore the concepts, methods, and processes of social research, and develop skills in conducting and assessing research. Students are challenged to examine their own approach to knowing, to incorporate research into practice, and to think critically about research in relation to social work practice. The subjectivity of the researcher, the political and ethical context of research, and the role of research as an instrument of power in the lives of oppressed peoples is discussed.
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SOCW 3040 Social Work Field Practice (0,1,21P) SOCW 3040 Social Work Field Practice (0,1,21P)Credits: 6 credits Students apply ethics, theory, and research to social work practice while developing professional practice skills. Students integrate classroom learning with practical experience while working in partnership with clients, community groups, and other professions. The practicum is a structured educational experience that includes specific learning objectives and professional supervision provided in an evaluative, disciplined, and reflective manner. Through seminar discussions, students analyze inequality, injustice, and oppression in practice. The practicum is normally completed three days a week and is accompanied by a seminar, for a total of 300 hours including pre-practicum orientation and practicum seminars. The practicum is normally completed three days a week and is accompanied by a seminar, for a total of 300 hours including pre-practicum orientation and practicum seminars.
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SOCW 3060 Theory and Ideology of Social Work (3,0,0) SOCW 3060 Theory and Ideology of Social Work (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students are introduced to social work theory and ideology, while they examine the links between social values, theory, and practice in social work. Various social work practice theories are introduced to build a foundation for critical social work practice. The social, political, and economic contexts of social work and social welfare are addressed.
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SOCW 3530 Social Work Practice with Individuals (3,0,0) SOCW 3530 Social Work Practice with Individuals (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students develop effective communication skills and apply these to social work practice. From anti-oppression, feminist, and Aboriginal perspectives, students establish communication concepts and methods applicable to practice with diverse groups. Through experiential methods, students increase self-awareness and problem-solving skills, develop a beginning purposeful intervention framework, and gain experience in the conscious, disciplined use of self.
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SOCW 3540 Indigenous People and Human Services (3,0,0) SOCW 3540 Indigenous People and Human Services (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students critically examine the historical process of colonization in Canada, the resulting barriers embedded in policy and practice, and alternative ways of viewing the social-psychological position of Indigenous People in Canadian society. Contemporary issues and the movement toward self-determination are discussed in relation to social work theory and practice.
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SOCW 3550 Human Development (3,0,0) SOCW 3550 Human Development (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits The objectives of this course are to introduce students to concepts and models of how human behavior is acquired, maintained, and modified, and to promote an understanding of normal human development as a knowledge base of practice with individuals, families, and groups in a rural context.
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SOCW 3590 Social Work Practice with Diverse Populations (3,0,0) SOCW 3590 Social Work Practice with Diverse Populations (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits The development of culturally informed practice skills responsive to diversity is a life-long learning pursuit. This course builds on established interview skills and practice with individuals. Students consider prior learning and develop awareness, skills, and goals for working with diverse social and cultural groups including Indigenous, Black, Asian, and francophone peoples within British Columbia. Students reflect on their own social locations and biases, adopting a stance of ongoing learning and reflexivity to oppression and privilege and work towards social justice. Communication with Indigenous people is a core emphasis in this course. Students develop a culturally sensitive approach in problem-solving situations while working with individuals. Theories of intervention are introduced, practiced, and critiqued by students. Students identify opportunities for ongoing learning.
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SOCW 4010 Race, Racialization and Immigration Policy (3,0,0) SOCW 4010 Race, Racialization and Immigration Policy (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students will critically examine Canada's immigration policies and practices to consider their contribution to social inclusion and exclusion. Topics explored include theories of race and racialization, and historic and contemporary perspectives on Canadian migration. Students will analyze the role of media in public opinion, and the social and political factors impacting the lives of Canadian migrants.
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SOCW 4020 Social Work Field Practice (0,1,28P) SOCW 4020 Social Work Field Practice (0,1,28P)Credits: 9 credits Students apply ethics, theory, and research to social work practice while developing professional practice skills. This course is completed at the end of the student's studies in the Bachelor of Social Work degree program and develops analytic and practical abilities sufficient to begin professional practice. The practicum is a structured educational experience that includes specific learning objectives; professional supervision is provided in an evaluative, disciplined, and reflective manner. Through seminar discussions, students analyze inequality, injustice, and oppression in practice. This practicum is normally completed four days a week, includes a seminar, and is a total of 432 hours.
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SOCW 4540 Decolonizing Social Work Practice ne Secwepemcul'ecw (3,0,0) SOCW 4540 Decolonizing Social Work Practice ne Secwepemcul'ecw (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students examine social workers' roles and responsibilities in working with Indigenous people. The concept and process of decolonization is introduced and connected to contemporary stories, community social work program initiatives, and practices of Indigenous people. This course utilizes a gendered Indigenous perspective and explores strategies for reconciliation, building relationships, and practices within the social work profession.
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SOCW 3300 International Field Studies (3,0,0) SOCW 3300 International Field Studies (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits This course offers a two-week international study experience in a selected country. Students explore the political, economic, cultural, and social conditions of their selected country, including globalization and its effects on citizens, social welfare policy and practice, community development strategies, and the marginalization and oppression of groups. Activities involve presentations and seminars by international leaders, professionals, and residents, as well as visits to a range of community sites and organizations.
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SOCW 3570 Social Work, Law and Social Policy (3,0,0)** SOCW 3570 Social Work, Law and Social Policy (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits This course provides a basic introduction to legal issues and an examination of the social impact of legislation and policy. Students develop a beginning knowledge base in areas of law that are particularly relevant to social work practice.
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SOCW 3760 Family and Child Welfare Practice (3,0,0)** SOCW 3760 Family and Child Welfare Practice (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students analyze family and child welfare systems and current British Columbia models of practice from anti-oppression, Indigenous, and feminist perspectives. An introductory critique of the legal system is provided, and its relationship to practice with diverse populations is considered. Students also discuss the importance of understanding personal and professional values and ethics in a climate of constant change. Major emphasis is given to First Nations and Aboriginal child welfare due to the high rate of Indigenous children in care.
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SOCW 4200 Intimate Partner Violence and Social Work Practice (3,0,0) SOCW 4200 Intimate Partner Violence and Social Work Practice (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students are introduced to social work practice with individuals, families, and communities in response to violence in adult intimate relationships. Students explore intimate partner violence (IPV) and social work practice from a variety of perspectives, including cross-cultural, international, Indigenous, and feminist. This course emphasizes a social work practice approach that is community-based, culturally responsive/safe, feminist, and anti-oppressive. In this course, IPV is understood as violence in adult intimate relationships, including same-sex couples. Additional topics include IPV in Indigenous communities, children who witness violence, and dating violence.
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SOCW 4300 Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression (3,0,0) SOCW 4300 Sexual Orientation and Gender Expression (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students are introduced to interpersonal and systemic issues that sexually diverse and gender varied people encounter on a daily basis. Policies, legislation, and social contexts are analyzed with a view to understanding the impact of intersecting oppressions and privileges on sexual and gender minorities. Students discuss social work strategies to support and advocate for gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans-identified, two-spirit, intersex, queer, and questioning (GLBTTsIQQ) people, plus their families and communities, including courses of action for being an ally.
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SOCW 4400 Social Work and Mental Health (3,0,0) SOCW 4400 Social Work and Mental Health (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students are introduced to the practice of social work in the field of mental health by critically examining historical and contemporary theoretical perspectives on mental illness, Canadian mental health law and policy, cultural and diversity aspects, classification and treatment, ethical issues, and an exploration of additional selected mental health issues. Students are presented with the personal accounts of individuals who have experienced mental health problems. The course is intended to provide introductory foundational knowledge in the field of mental health, rather than advanced knowledge and skills that are required for mental health practice.
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SOCW 4500 Leadership Practice in Social Service Organizations (3,0,0) SOCW 4500 Leadership Practice in Social Service Organizations (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students are provided with a critical introduction to leadership in social service organizations, and review organizational theory and its application to government and non-profit organizations. Leadership in a diverse workplace, program development, budgeting, staff appraisal, supervision, and work with voluntary boards are also discussed. Through experiential learning methods, students explore the key organizational skills that are necessary for effective leadership in organizations.
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SOCW 4520 Educating for Social Change (3,0,0) SOCW 4520 Educating for Social Change (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students focus on the use of education as a strategy for individual and social change through the concept of education as the practice of freedom, and as a process of social transformation through conscientization. Principles and practices of adult education are examined for their application in social work as vehicles for empowerment and change. Students present workshops, plays, or web programs to develop the specific skills and knowledge for planning and delivering educational programs. Students further explore feminist, Indigenous, and anti-oppression perspectives.
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SOCW 4550 Social Work Practice with Communities (3,0,0) SOCW 4550 Social Work Practice with Communities (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students explore the construction of community and analyze marginalization, exclusion, and oppression in communities. The course outlines social work roles as well as strategies for change in diverse communities. The history, philosophy, models, and methods of social practice with communities are described.
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SOCW 4600 ***Special Topics in Social Work and Social Welfare (3,0,0) SOCW 4600 ***Special Topics in Social Work and Social Welfare (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students explore special issues in social welfare and various approaches to social work practice. This variable content course is restricted to students in third or fourth year.
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SOCW 4610 Social Work Practice with Groups (3,0,0) SOCW 4610 Social Work Practice with Groups (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students are introduced to the historical development of the use of groups in social work practice, and examine the various theoretical approaches to group work including anti-oppression, feminist, and Indigenous perspectives. Students examine the use of groups as vehicles for treatment, task accomplishment, self-help, mutual aid, community intervention, peer supervision, and professional association. This course provides an opportunity to understand the stages of group development, and to practice skills related to group processes. Students participate in structured group experiences.
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SOCW 4650 Older People, Aging and Society (3,0,0) SOCW 4650 Older People, Aging and Society (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits This course is an introduction to working with and on behalf of older people from an anti-oppression and inter-disciplinary perspective. Students examine age in relation to other identity factors, such as race, ethnicity, class, gender, (dis)ability, faith, sexual orientation, aboriginal ancestry, and marital status. Students consider issues affecting older adults locally and globally; critically examine beliefs and attitudes related to aging and older people--our own and those of others; and develop a framework for anti-oppression practice with older people. Students discuss policy, practice, and research issues within the field of aging, and focus on structural inequalities in later life and the voices of older people.
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SOCW 4660 Addictions and Social Work Practice (3,0,0) SOCW 4660 Addictions and Social Work Practice (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits This course is designed to give students an introduction to substance misuse as well as compulsive and addictive behaviour. Major addiction theories are examined, and the role of social work is explored. Substance abuse and other addictive behaviours in relation to cultural minorities, youth, and older adults are examined. Students acquire knowledge of the local network of available services and resources. This course fosters a critical perspective on legal issues and government policy regarding addictive substances.
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SOCW 4760 Family and Child Welfare Policy (3,0,0)** SOCW 4760 Family and Child Welfare Policy (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students critically examine family and child welfare policy and practice issues. The conceptual framework of this course includes an overview of ideological influences and stresses the importance of a gender, race, and class analysis of family and child welfare issues and practice in Canada.
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SOCW 4770 Social Work Practice with Families (3,0,0) SOCW 4770 Social Work Practice with Families (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students explore social work practice within contemporary families with diverse structures and backgrounds. Utilizing a variety of theoretical perspectives, including anti-oppression, feminist, and Indigenous, students develop an understanding of families within a social, cultural, economic, and political context, and examine ethical and practice issues commonly encountered in social work practice with families. Through class discussion, assignments, and experiential exercises, students develop skills and integrate theory and practice.
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SOCW 4780 Introduction to Disability Studies (3,0,0) SOCW 4780 Introduction to Disability Studies (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students examine perspectives on disability, race, gender, and class, as well as critically analyze current theories, policies, and practice. Students are introduced to issues affecting people with disabilities within a framework of human rights, citizenship, and inclusion. This course also engages students in an examination of their own beliefs and attitudes about disability, and emphasizes knowledge required for anti-ableist practice. Significant events and the contributions of pioneers in the disability rights movement are explored. The roles and perspectives of people with disabilities, their family members, and professionals are considered in relation to social work values, theory, policy, and practice.
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SOCW 4800 International Social Work (3,0,0) SOCW 4800 International Social Work (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students are introduced to the field of international social work. Current global social welfare issues and challenges are critically explored and discussed, including global Indigenous issues and development approaches of different countries. Students complete an in-depth examination of the economic, political, social, and cultural dimensions of globalization. Implications for international social work and its social justice and anti-oppressive mandate are analyzed by addressing complex global issues such as disaster relief and humanitarian aid, human trafficking, and forced migration of people. The impact of political, social, economic, cultural, religious, and environmental influences on human rights, social and economic justice, social policies, and service delivery are explored. The role of social work in facilitating international social development is examined in local and global contexts.
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SOCW 4900 Directed Studies (3,0,0) SOCW 4900 Directed Studies (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits This independent study course is designed to allow students the opportunity to investigate a specific issue within a field or topic in social work, such as gerontology, mental health, sexual assault, or corrections. Consultation with, and permission of, a faculty member and the Associate Dean is required. |
| ** Child Welfare Specialization Required Courses |
SOCW 3570 Social Work, Law and Social Policy (3,0,0) SOCW 3570 Social Work, Law and Social Policy (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits This course provides a basic introduction to legal issues and an examination of the social impact of legislation and policy. Students develop a beginning knowledge base in areas of law that are particularly relevant to social work practice.
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SOCW 3760 Family and Child Welfare Practice (3,0,0) SOCW 3760 Family and Child Welfare Practice (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students analyze family and child welfare systems and current British Columbia models of practice from anti-oppression, Indigenous, and feminist perspectives. An introductory critique of the legal system is provided, and its relationship to practice with diverse populations is considered. Students also discuss the importance of understanding personal and professional values and ethics in a climate of constant change. Major emphasis is given to First Nations and Aboriginal child welfare due to the high rate of Indigenous children in care.
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SOCW 4760 Family and Child Welfare Policy (3,0,0) SOCW 4760 Family and Child Welfare Policy (3,0,0)Credits: 3 credits Students critically examine family and child welfare policy and practice issues. The conceptual framework of this course includes an overview of ideological influences and stresses the importance of a gender, race, and class analysis of family and child welfare issues and practice in Canada.
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