Social Work 606: Social Policy Syllabus (Master's Level)

I adapted and created this syllabus in Spring 2021 for social work master's students. The course materials have been adapted to meet standards for universal design and reflect the diversity of those impacted by social policies in the US. The assignments include interactive, hands-on activities that allow students to gain an in-depth understanding of a social issue of importance to them, and then learn to advocate for policies to improve social justice in their area. 

Course description: This course provides an awareness of problems and concepts of the policy process in the U.S., exploring the political, economic, and institutional frameworks which structure public social welfare choices.  A discussion  and analysis of select current issues in social policy, including poverty, housing, discrimination, disability, mental health, and incarceration, will be integrated throughout the course. Students will learn to define, analyze, and advocate for social welfare policies that directly impact communities they intend to serve. We will focus on the ethical responsibilities and social justice charge inherent in the social work profession.