SW 440 - Social Work Policy and Advocacy

This course examines the influence of federal, state, and local policies on social work practice and service delivery. Students will explore the impact of social policies and programs on client outcomes, with an emphasis on how policy decisions shape service accessibility, effectiveness, and equity. The course will introduce theories of policy analysis, policy advocacy skills, and policy development, preparing students to navigate and influence the policy landscape. Additionally, students will examine the historical foundations of key social policies related to poverty, child welfare, aging, veterans’ services, education, healthcare, mental health, and juvenile and criminal justice. Semester Credit Hours: 3.00 Contact Hours: 45/0/0/45 Prerequisite: None Corequisite: None