The course provides an introduction to the social work profession. Because the field of social work draws on the academic disciplines of sociology and psychology, students will gain insight into the social and environmental factors that influence individual lives. Students will become acquainted with the challenges and rewards of social work. Social service agencies, as current social policies, will also be discussed. Other topics will include social work practice in family & children's services, health care, schools, criminal justice, substance abuse, and workplace settings.

Definition of social work, the social work role, and social work outcome for the individual, group, organization, community, and institution in society. Introduction to and exploration of the generalist framework, problem-solving model, values, diversity, and their development in the 20th century as defined by critical thinkers in the profession.