Course Description – Introduction to Social Work (SOCW02)

Course Code: SOCW02
Course Title: Introduction to Social Work
Program: BASOCW (Bachelor of Arts in Social Work)
Credit Hours: 3
Level: Undergraduate – Year 1

Course Overview

Introduction to Social Work provides students with a foundational understanding of the profession of social work, its values, principles, and practices. The course explores the historical development of social work, the roles of social workers in various settings, and the ethical frameworks that guide practice. Students will also be introduced to basic skills in communication, assessment, and intervention as they prepare for advanced studies in social work.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Define social work as a profession and its core values.

2. Describe the historical, social, and cultural development of social work.

3. Identify fields and methods of social work practice.

4. Understand the principles of human rights, social justice, and advocacy in social work.

5. Demonstrate knowledge of ethical standards and professional conduct.

6. Apply introductory skills in communication and client engagement.

Key Topics Covered

• Nature and Scope of Social Work

• History and Evolution of Social Work (Global and Local Perspectives)

• Social Work Theories and Approaches

• Core Values and Ethics in Social Work

• Human Rights, Social Justice, and Advocacy

• Roles and Functions of Social Workers in Various Settings

• Methods of Social Work Practice (Casework, Group Work, Community Work)

• Social Welfare Policies and Institutions

• Communication and Basic Helping Skills

• Challenges and Opportunities in the Social Work Profession

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

• Explain the philosophy and mission of social work.

• Analyze the relevance of social work in addressing social problems.

• Demonstrate understanding of ethical principles in practice.

• Identify the various roles and settings of social work.

• Apply introductory communication and interviewing techniques.

Assessment Methods

• Class Participation & Reflection Journals (10%)

• Written Assignment / Case Study (20%)

• Mid-Semester Examination (20%)

• Group Presentation (10%)

• Final Examination (40%)

Recommended References

• Zastrow, C. – Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare

• Hepworth, D. H., Rooney, R. H., & Larsen, J. A. – Direct Social Work Practice

• Skidmore, R. A., Thackeray, M. G., & Farley, O. W. – Introduction to Social Work

• Banks, S. – Ethics and Values in Social Work

• Payne, M. – Modern Social Work Theory