Social Work Practice: Advocating Social Justice and Change

Week 1: What is Social Work?
Introduction to social work as a profession and key roles social workers perform across system levels (individual, family, community, organization, policy). Focus on core social values and perspectives. Week 2: Cross-Cutting Themes that Guide Social Workers
Introduction to key cross cutting themes (e.g., systems theory, strengths based approach, empowerment, evidence-informed practices and social justice). Explore these themes through case examples and interactive exercises. Week 3: History of Social Work as Profession in the United States
Examine the history of social work as a profession using an issue oriented approach. Learn unique contributions of social workers over the years. Week 4: Addressing Issues of Privilege, Oppression, Diversity and Social Justice
Learn strategies that social workers use to effectively make a difference in addressing privilege, oppression, diversity and social justice in their work. Explore current challenges and advocacy needs through case applications. Week 5: Preparing to Practice Social Work – The MSW Learning Process
This week explores topics related to entering an MSW program at the University of Michigan and the tools needed to be successful and maximize learning.