Division of Social Sciences
Social Work
To inquire about this program:
Dr. Rebecca L. Sperling | 212-774-4844 | E-mail
Social Work is a focused study of interactions between people and their physical and social environments linked to specific practice skills that are directed to improving the quality of those interactions. The social work courses at Marymount Manhattan College introduce students to the profession of Social Work and, in general, to the world of human services.
The Minor in Social Work at MMC is based on systems theory and informed by a strengths perspective. The program provides students with an overview of social work practice and an introduction to social work professional history, language, roles, values, theories, skills and modalities. Social workers aim to maximize the functioning of individuals, families, groups and communities and to be ethically and culturally aware. Students are encouraged to think about the multiplicity of factors that cause human behavior. They are trained to recognize and value people's strengths and to view problems within the contexts of both interpersonal and social dynamics. Students are expected to be self-reflective, to examine their own personal values, as well as to evaluate public policies. Additionally, they think about the circumstances and the settings in which social services are offered and learn to collaborate with other human service professionals. As a result, students come to value interdisciplinary work and to think critically about the varied roles assumed by social workers in their efforts to help people solve problems, satisfy needs, access resources, build strengths, and modify environments.
The MMC Advantage
In a sequence of five classes and related internship opportunities, students study professional values, knowledge and skills. They are exposed to various ways to think about the social, political, economic, and personal factors involved in the construction of human problems. Courses are also designed to enhance the quality of each student's civic and community involvement as well as to help students become more thoughtful and successful providers of human services. Ultimately classes direct students to think critically about their communities and to act powerfully within them.
Learning Goals for the Minor in Social Work
After completing the minor in social work, students will be able to:- Apply systems theory to their understanding of casework.
- Demonstrate "case" to cause thinking.
- Demonstrate the ability to apply social work values, ethics and
practices in field experiences.
- Articulate how issues related to diversity impact the dynamics of
cases, families, groups, programs and/or social contexts related to
their fieldwork.
- Demonstrate a recognition of the importance of substantive knowledge
to the work of the profession.
Students can take courses as part of a minor, to enhance work in their majors, as part of the shared curriculum, or simply for elective credits. Social Work classes complement many majors; sociology, psychology, speech/language pathology, education, political science, business and communication arts among them. In general, the courses will be attractive to all those who are interested in work in the area of human services. Students earn a "minor" in Social Work if they successfully complete all courses in the sequence. Coursework and internships will also help prepare students for advanced degree work in the Social Work profession.
|
|
|
