Social Work

SOW 200 Introduction to Social Work 3 Credits

In this course, students will gain the foundational knowledge base essential to understanding the profession of social work and how it is practiced. The history of social work including a critical evaluation of how the profession has participated in racist and oppressive practices is examined. Students are introduced to the guiding principles and values of the profession and the NASW Code of Ethics. The various roles of the social work profession are explored in the context of various settings and students gain an understanding of how social workers intervene to solve problems at the micro, mezzo, and macro.

SOW 207 Anti-racist and Just Practice in Social Work 3 Credits

An examination of the history and contemporary forms of racism including social work’s role in racist and unjust practices will lead to understanding how they contribute to social, racial, economic, and environmental injustices. The impacts of oppression and racism on individuals, families, groups, communities, and organizations are identified and critically examined throughout the course. Reflection and awareness of one’s own biases are embedded throughout this course and contribute to the development of an anti-racist and anti-oppressive framework for social work practice.

SOW 222 Social Justice and Equity in Social Work 3 Credits

Social Justice & Equity in Social Work (3) Implications of social diversity, including values, lifestyles, gender, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, race, culture, spirituality, and sexual orientation in the socially just social work relationship, as well as the significance of oppression in shaping the relationship.

Prerequisite(s): SOW 200.

SOW 250 Human Behavior and the Social Environment 3 Credits

This course explores functioning across the lifespan from a biopsychosocial and ecological systems lens. The course covers developmental theories to guide social work assessment, intervention, and evaluation at all levels in generalist social work practice. Students will understand factors which impact growth and development over the life course.

SOW 290 Advocacy and Social Action for Professional Social Workers 3 Credits

The focus of this course is to discuss relevant theories and strategies of social and political action that promote social justice within organizations, the larger community, and society. In this course students will gain an understanding of policy practice theory and skills in regard to social, economic, political, and organizational systems, and will use this knowledge to then influence, formulate, and advocate for policy changes to meet the needs of clients. They will develop the skills to create change at the client, agency, community, and/or societal level that is founded on the principles and ideals of social, distributive, political, and economic justice. Where advocacy assumes that people have rights, and those rights are enforceable, social action involves a coordinated and sustained effort to achieve institutional change to meet a need, solve a social problem, or correct an injustice to improve and/or enhance the quality of human life and individual well-being. This effort may occur at the initiative and direction of professional social workers, or it may occur through the efforts of individuals directly affected by the problem or policy change. Professional social workers must utilize their clinical skills, knowledge, and differential use of self to critically assess values, and evaluate needs and gaps in services for our constituents.

Prerequisite(s): SOW 200.

SOW 295 Social Work Research Methods 3 Credits

This course equips students to understand and use research methods from a social work perspective. By learning to critically analyze research, participate in studies, and evaluate their own practice, students become informed practitioners who can contribute to the profession's knowledge base. The course emphasizes applying research skills throughout a social worker's career for accountability and continuous improvement. Course

Prerequisite(s): Completion of 30 credits and a grade of "C" or better in SOC 101 or SOW 200 or concurrent enrollment in SOW 200.

SOW 300 Social Work Practice I: Individuals and Families 3 Credits

This course provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills for generalist social work practice with individuals and families. Students will explore the core principles and values of social work practice, learn about diverse populations and their needs, and develop essential skills for assessment, intervention, and evaluation. Interactive learning activities will include case studies, and simulated practice.

Prerequisite(s): A grade of "C" or better in SOW 200, 207, 250, 295 and 350; an overall GPA of 2.40 in the major; permission of the Program Director.

SOW 301 Field Work Experience and Seminar I 3 Credits

This course is a core component of the BSW program that provides students with an invaluable opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge and develop professional skills in real-world social work settings. The course consists of field placement in a social service setting where students will complete the first required 200 hours of supervised field placement. The course incorporates a weekly seminar component where students will gain critical practice skills, learn to utilize supervision effectively, and build a strong foundation for their future careers. This is the first of two required courses that must be taken upon successful completion of all the foundation and practice courses. Registration for this course requires approval from the Director of Field Education.

Prerequisite(s): A grade of "C" or better in foundation courses (SOW 200, 207, 250, 295, and 350) and practice courses (SOW 300, 303, 307, and 351) AND Director of Field Education Approval.

SOW 302 Field Work Experience and Seminar II 3 Credits

This course is a core component of the BSW program that provides students with an invaluable opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge and develop professional skills in real-world social work settings. The course consists of field placement in a social service setting where students will complete the first required 200 hours of supervised field placement. The course incorporates a weekly seminar component where students will gain critical practice skills, learn to utilize supervision effectively, and build a strong foundation for their future careers. This is the first of two required courses that must be taken upon successful completion of all the foundation and practice courses. Registration for this course requires approval from the Director of Field Education.

Prerequisite(s): A grade of "B-" or better in SOW 301 including 200 hours of field practice AND Director of Field Education Approval.

SOW 303 Social Work Practice II: Groups, Communities, and Organizations 3 Credits

This course examines the macro level of social work generalist practice. Students will learn to address social problems and create positive change through effective macro level practice and intervention. Through the exploration of unique dynamics and challenges, students will gain the knowledge and skills to work effectively with groups, communities, and organizations. The use of case studies, role, plays and simulated practice will help students acquire social work competency for work with groups, organizations, and communities.

Prerequisite(s): A grade of "C" or better in SOW 200, 207, 250, 301 and 350; an overall GPA of 2.40 in the major; permission of the Program Director.

SOW 307 Interview Skills in Social Work 3 Credits

This course introduces BSW students to the core skills of interviewing in social work practice. Students will explore various theories and techniques for conducting effective interviews with diverse clients and practice applying these skills in simulated scenarios.

Prerequisite(s): A grade of "C" or better in SOW 200, 207, 250, 301 and 350; an overall GPA of 2.40 in the major; permission of the Program Director.

SOW 350 Social Work Policy 3 Credits

This course examines social work policy practice and the role of social workers. It introduces students to the historical development of social welfare policy and frames the social policy practice from an anti-racist and anti-oppressive lens. Students will gain knowledge of major social issues and challenges facing societies. Policy analysis will include an exploration of ethical considerations and dilemmas involved in social policy decision-making. Intersectionality is examined as it relates to social welfare policies and marginalized and historically oppressed communities. Through simulated learning, students build policy practice skills.

Prerequisite(s): Completion of at least 30 credits; concurrent enrollment in SOW 295 or previous completion of SOW 295 with a grade of "C" or better.

SOW 351 Case Management, Documentation, and Report Writing 3 Credits

This course introduces students to the essential skills and knowledge required for effective case management, documentation, and report writing. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the case management process, develop proficiency in creating accurate and concise documentation, and learn to write informative and impactful reports. The course emphasizes ethical practices, cultural awareness, and effective communication in all aspects of case management.

Prerequisite(s): A grade of "C" or better in SOW 200, 207, 250, 295 and 350; an overall GPA of 2.40 in the major; permission of the Program Director.

SOW 362 Global Social Work Practice 3 Credits

This special topics course explores the complex realities and challenges of global social work practice from a human-rights approach. Students will gain a critical understanding of diverse social, cultural, and political contexts within which social work interventions are implemented across borders. Global social issues will be discussed alongside models of intervention.

SOW 400 Social Work Senior Seminar 3 Credits

In this course, students will embark on a journey of self-discovery and professional preparation by crafting a compelling e-portfolio that highlights their academic achievements, skills, and experiences relevant to generalist social work practice. Students will be guided through a strategic and creative process of identifying strengths, goals, and aspirations that highlight the attainment of the core competencies of the social work profession. Taken concurrently with SOW 302.

COM 107 Writing for the Media 3 Credits

Introduces students to interviewing and persuasive writing techniques for print and electronic public relations and advertising formats. Teaches techniques for creating effective digital audio-visual aids and working with digital audio and video.

COM 131 Fundamentals of Video Production 3 Credits

Introduces students to basic video production theories, techniques, and applications. Students will gain competency in a number of video production areas including: production planning, camera operations, lighting, sound, and digital non-linear editing. Individual and group production exercises will involve planning and executing video productions in both studio and non-studio settings. This class is designed to prepare students from any major to effectively create, produce, shoot, and edit basic video production assignments including public service announcements, video news releases, educational/instructional videos, and marketing/promotional spots.

COM 232 Podcasting I 3 Credits

Podcasting I will offer students an innovative reading, research, discussion and creative lab experience. Using fictional storytelling, broadcast journalism and talk show formats, students will learn the basics of producing an original, creative podcast. They will gain insight on how to communicate and successfully market a podcast towards a mass audience. Students would also receive a basic overview of podcasting, so they can continue work to podcast on their own after taking Podcasting I.

COM 252 Intercultural Communication 3 Credits

Develops intercultural communication competence through an awareness and understanding of diverse cultures and their impact on communication. It will introduce students to those general factors that influence communication with people from diverse cultures both internationally and within the United States, and offer a blend of skill development, communication theory, and hands-on application.

COM 355 Social Justice and Journalism 3 Credits

The best of American journalism is rooted in exploring issues of social justice and shining a spotlight on abuse. In this course, students will learn about the role journalism has played to expose social injustice in America by exploring powerful investigations by the mass media and also press organizations employing and representing non-white and marginalized groups. Students will examine both historical and contemporary journalism examples. The course also will include critical assessment of journalism’s failings, including an exploration of the discrimination and disenfranchisement historically perpetuated by media.

POL 303 Global Justice 3 Credits

This course examines some of the most vexing problems in today’s world of global interconnectedness. How can we harness the potential of global cooperation to solve problems that cross national borders? We will critically analyze the potential for human rights to protect vulnerable individuals, including victims of human trafficking. We will also evaluate the distribution of global resources and costs, including natural resources, extreme poverty and environmental degradation. What do we owe those who live in distant lands? Throughout we will ask how reality matches up to our best hopes for the present and future.

POL 317 Model United Nations 3 Credits

Model United Nations (POL 317) is the course that prepares Rider University’s award-winning Model United Nations (MUN) team for the annual National MUN competition in New York City. The team has brought home top awards for the past decade and continuously strives for excellence. POL 317 is a student-led course that hones writing, public-speaking and researching skills of student-delegates and it represents student engagement at the highest level. Chosen through a rigorous selection process in the fall semester, the student-delegates write position papers during the winter break, and develop caucusing, team-working, and presentation skills in class during the spring semester. During the past five decades, Rider University’s MUN team has represented more than 50 countries, and competed with thousands of delegates from national and international universities. It is one of the premier engaged learning and cohort-building institutions on campus.

POL 363 Human Rights in Global Context 3 Credits

Human rights – droits de l’homme, derechos humanos, Menschenrechte, “the rights of man” – are, literally, the rights that one has because one is human. What does it mean to have a right? How are being human and having rights related? This course provides an introduction to theory and global practice of human rights. Human rights claims play an increasingly central role in political and social struggles across the world. The adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 signaled a proliferation of international human rights law and transnational non-governmental activism. While the promotion of human rights has become global, adherence to those standards remains highly uneven and gross violations and atrocities continue to occur. Given the breath and complexity of the human rights movement, including its engagement with law, politics and morals, in radically different cultures, this course is by its very nature multidisciplinary. Note: This course is cross-listed as HLS 363. Students may not get credit for both HLS 363 and POL 363.

PSY 110 Psychology:The Science of Well-being 3 Credits

This course uses theory and methods of psychology to examine the question: How to make a good life? Students will learn how psychology examines the ways that motivation, intellect, relationships, self-respect and a healthy lifestyle contribute to happiness, well-being, and flourishing. Students will learn how psychology examines human nature through observation and experimentation. Students will understand how psychology applies research to improve human well-being. Students will leave the course with a better understanding of themselves and their connection to others, and apply their self-knowledge to their personal goals and relationships. This course counts towards the fulfillment of the Disciplinary Perspectives element of the CAS general education curriculum.

PSY 131 The Science of Mental Illness 3 Credits

The Science of Mental Illness explores the biological bases of mental health and mental illness, focusing on anxiety, mood disorders, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's Disease. Students will examine the neural networks of these conditions, common psychiatric medications for treating them, studies of the long-term efficacy and effects of using psychiatric medications, and the psychological and biological capacities for improving mental health. This course counts towards the fulfillment of the Disciplinary Perspectives element of the CAS general education curriculum.

PSY 212 Introduction to Applied Behavior Analysis 3 Credits

Presents a review of classical and operant conditioning, data collection and research design, data analysis and interpretation. In addition, assessment and treatment strategies in a variety of settings, contingency management in institution, classroom and home, systematic self-desensitization, and ethical consideration are discussed.

Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in PSY 100 or PSY 102 or PSY 110 or PSY 131.

PSY 230 Child Development 3 Credits

Presents theory and research on the social, emotional and cognitive development of children birth to age 12.

Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in PSY 100 or PSY 102 or PSY 110 or PSY 131.

PSY 231 Youth and Adolescent Development 3 Credits

Presents theories, research and problems concerning development in youth and adolescence.

Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in PSY 100 or PSY 102 or PSY 110 or PSY 131.

PSY 245 Stress, Health and Coping 3 Credits

This course will examine physical and psychological effects of stress including a discussion of the nervous system, and the various models of the stress/illness relationship such as General Adaptation, Cognitive Appraisal and Diathesis-Stress. Various ways of coping with/responding to stress will be considered along with the influence of personality and sociodemographic factors on differences in both the experience of stress and on coping mechanisms will be considered. Finally, this course will consider issues in the measurement of stress and coping as well as some of the noteworthy findings and methodological aspects of stress research.

Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in PSY 100 or PSY 102 or PSY 110 or PSY 131.

PSY 345 Health Psychology 3 Credits

This course focuses on the biopsychosocial model of health in which biological, psychological and social factors contribute to health and wellbeing, as well as illness and disease. After a brief introduction to systems of the body, i.e. nervous, endocrine, respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, immune, this course will examine health-enhancing behaviors such as exercise and nutrition, as well as health-compromising behaviors such as drug abuse and other reckless behaviors, along with models that explain behavior maintenance and change. Additionally, attention is devoted to a discussion of how health psychology can function in shaping health care policy.

Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in PSY 100 or PSY 102 or PSY 110 or PSY 131 and 45 credits.

SOC 101 Sociological Imagination 3 Credits

Introduction to principles and concepts for the sociological analysis of human societies. Social relations, social structure, and institutions characteristic of societies past and present are examined, and causes and directions of social change are considered. This course counts towards the fulfillment of the Disciplinary Perspectives element of the CLAS general education curriculum.

SOC 119 Introduction to Criminal Justice: Police, Courts, Corrections 3 Credits

This course introduces students to the sociological study of the criminal justice system. It examines the cultural and social foundations of this system, and review debates about problems with the criminal justice system and proposals to change it. Topics covered include nature of the crime problem, requirements of criminal law, policing, the role of the courts and legal professionals, sentencing, incarceration and alternatives to it.

Prerequisite(s): SOC 101.

SOC 207 Racial and Ethnic Relations 3 Credits

Examines the social origins of prejudice and discrimination, and analyzes intergroup trends in conflict, competition, and cooperation. Considers issues of immigration, economic and political power, and ethnic, racial, and religious pluralism.

SOC 211 Social Movements 3 Credits

This course examines social movements that seek change in the social, cultural and political structures of society. The social, economic and political contexts of these movements are treated as well as their origins, tactics, organization, recruitment, and successes and failures. Case studies focus on movements in the areas of labor, civil rights, feminism, the environment, “right wing politics”, and neighborhood activism.

SOC 230 Foundations of Civic Engagement 3 Credits

This course is an introduction to civic engagement: its meanings, opportunities and limitations. Students will learn about the different opportunities for civic engagement in the community as well as the theories and skills associated with it. Students will learn the role of formal and informal institutions in community engagement and will identify a specific organization for in depth investigation.

Prerequisite(s): SOC 101.

SOC 245 Social Problems 3 Credits

American social, economic, and political institutions and their interrelationships are analyzed, with an emphasis on the causes, directions, and consequences of social change in American society.

SOC 246 Drugs, Crime & American Society 3 Credits

Explores the nature and extent of drug use in the U.S., how drugs are legally defined and socially constructed, and considers how and why drug policies have developed and changed historically. Considers how the criminalization of drugs has impacted policing strategies, courts, probation programs, sentencing and corrections, as well as other social institutions. Examines the role of local and federal agencies in enforcing drug laws, and considers debates about directions for legal reforms.

SOC 248 Social Service Organizations 3 Credits

Examines the growth and variety of social service organizations. The training of providers, such as teachers and physicians, and relationships between professionals and clients in settings such as schools and hospitals are studied as well as organizational decision-making, finances, and community relations.

Prerequisite(s): SOC 101.

SOC 280 Social Movements Abroad 3 Credits

This course will provide students with an international perspective on community-engaged strategies for addressing social problems, with a special focus on social welfare and justice. This course utilizes an international experiential component via a faculty led study abroad course and is mixed modal: online and on site internationally. Through seminars with local experts, case examples, dialogue, and visits to exemplary organizations, students will learn about strategies for engaging communities in creating change, honoring indigenous knowledge and practice, working to enhance leadership, and facilitating change in the context of larger social institutions. Through readings, online discussions, and self-reflection students will gain a greater understanding of social movements across the host country, with special emphasis on the culture and experiences of international residents.

SOC 330 Class and Economic Inequality 3 Credits

Social, economic, and political aspects of the division of society into classes are considered. Theories of stratification and the distribution of wealth, power, and prestige in societies past and present are examined.

Prerequisite(s): SOC 101.

SOC 335 Victimology 3 Credits

Victimology is the study of victims, those who have been directly or indirectly impacted or injured physically, psychologically and/or financially through the commission of a criminal act or acts. In addition to introducing Victimology as a sub-discipline of Criminology, examining its evolution and emerging trends as a social science, this course will explore the following key questions: a) who are victims and how is victimization defined; b) what theories and typologies have been suggested to explain victimization likelihood and the victim-criminal relationship; c) how can we measure and document the extent of victimization; d) what are the consequences and impacts of victimization; e) where does the victim interact within the criminal justice and other systems (e.g., healthcare, media, the defense) and how does the system respond to victims in terms of how victims are treated and what programs and service have been created to assist them; f) what legislative, policy and/or regulatory measures have been generated related to victimization; g) what are some special populations that are impacted by criminal harm, and h) why is it important to focus on and study Victimology. Lastly, Victimology will attempt to find ways to hear the victim voice in order to gain an understanding of the victim perspective. Pre-requisite(s): SOC 101 and SOC 119.

SOC 340 Power and Politics 3 Credits

Examines the nature and distribution of power in contemporary societies; analyzes the relationships between power and politics.

Prerequisite(s): SOC 101.

SOC 346 Health Care and Society 3 Credits

Application and contributions of sociology to medicine; the strategy and methods of sociomedical research; sociology of illness, addictive and mental disorder; medical institutions; health services and medical care; and current status of medical sociology.

Prerequisite(s): SOC 101.