Faculty of Social Work

THE FACULTY OF SOCIAL WORK
Dean: Luke Fusco
MSW Co-ordinator: Nick Coady
PhD Co-ordinator: Robert Basso
Admissions Co-ordinator: Heather Froome
Director of Practicum: Joan Leeson
The Programs
MSW Program
As one of the modern helping disciplines, social work fulfils a strategic function in the expanded field of social services. The social work profession is concerned with the wide range of human and environmental factors, and processes which influence social functioning in contemporary life. It seeks to alleviate and prevent personal and social problems experienced by individuals, families, groups and communities, and to contribute to constructive institutional change and development.
    The educational program of the Faculty is designed to prepare specially qualified personnel for the many forms of direct clinical and community practice, and for the related professional functions of policy development, planning, administration and research. In all of these areas there is a growing demand, in both governmental and voluntary sectors, for social workers who possess advanced, theoretical knowledge and specialized practice competence.
    Inaugurated in 1966, the MSW program was first accredited in 1974 by the Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work and was most recently reaccredited in 1998. Three MSW programs are offered. For students with a Bachelor of Social Work degree, a one-year Advanced Standing program is offered. For students with Bachelor degrees other than social work, a two-year full-time MSW program and a four-year, part-time MSW program are offered.
PhD Program
This program provides students with opportunities for advanced scholarship and professional growth. The PhD program prepares individuals for creative leadership roles in fields such as professional education, research and specialized practice in governmental or private human service organizations.
    Students in the program co-ordinate their studies and research by focusing on the application of a specific interventive method to a research question. Examples of possible interventive methods are: social work with individuals, families or groups; social welfare administration; community development; and social policy analysis.
Combined Degree Programs
The MDiv-MSW program is offered jointly by the Waterloo Lutheran Seminary and the Faculty of Social Work. It integrates the curricula of both degrees into four years of study. This program is particularly valuable for those who are interested in positions of leadership in the social services of the church and the community at large. For further information, refer to Program Requirements-The MDiv/MTS-MSW Program or write to the Dean of the Seminary or the Admissions Co-ordinator in the Faculty of Social Work. It is also possible to pursue a combined MTS-MSW program.
Continuing Education
The Faculty of Social Work offers post-Master's or special-interest courses on selected topics. Information about such courses can be obtained upon request from the FSW Continuing Education Co-ordinator.
Professional Affiliations
The Faculty of Social Work maintains an active involvement with professional associations such as the Canadian Association of Social Workers, the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. These organizations are involved in ensuring standards of practice, assisting in professional development, acting on social welfare issues and encouraging research. Many social work students become members and participate in the local branch of the Ontario Association of Social Workers. It is expected that most students will join the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers upon graduation.
Faculty/Research Interests
Full-time Faculty
Basso, Robert V.J., BA (Florida State), MSW/MDiv (WLU), PhD (Toronto). Qualitative research, addictions, communications theory in social work, treatment of children and teenagers.
Cadell, Susan, BA (Waterloo), MSW, PhD (WLU). HIV/AIDS, caregivers, coping, trauma, grief, post-traumatic growth, women's issues.
Cameron, J. Gary, BA (McGill), MSW (Toronto), DSW and Certificate in Advanced Social Welfare (Columbia). Social support programming, self-help groups, prevention and early intervention with high-risk populations.
Caragata, Lea, BA (Saskatchewan), MA (McMaster), PhD (Toronto). Social construction of knowledge, civil society, interrelationships between human behaviour and built environments, social housing.
Coady, Nick, BA (York), MSW (WLU), PhD (Toronto). Counselling process-outcome research, worker-client relationship/therapeutic alliance, group work with male batterers, family support programs.
Dunn, Peter, BA (Massachusetts), MSW, Advanced Diploma (Toronto), PhD (Brandeis). Social housing, independent living for individuals with disabilities, gender issues, poverty concerns.
Fine, Marshall, BA (Waterloo), MSW (WLU), EdD (East Texas State). Client-therapist alliances, professional ethics, intergenerational relationships, human rights, couple and family therapy.
Fusco, Luke, BA (Hofstra), MA (Chicago). Family mediation, family violence, juvenile delinquency, social work field education, family therapy with impoverished families, work with involuntary clients, contracting, corrections.
Hanna, Edward, BA, MSW (Michigan State), PhD (Smith). Applications of psychoanalytic theory to social work practice, therapeutic processes.
Laurence, Martha Keniston, BS (Springfield College), BSW (Toronto), MSW (Wayne State), PhD (Michigan). Women, health, aging, organizational change, direct practice learning theory and educational design.
Levene, Judith E., BA (Wisconsin), MSW, PhD (Toronto). Mental health, psychiatry, psychotherapy, psychoanalysis.
Maiter, Sarah, BSW (Durban-Westville), MSW, PhD (Toronto). Child and family welfare, anti-oppressive, anti-racist research and practice approac hes, services for diverse populations, direct practice, distance education.
McPherson, Barry D., BA, MA (Western), PhD (Wisconsin). Aging, social support and social policy.
Mandell, Deena, BA (Toronto), MSW (Carleton), PhD (Toronto). Families (traditional and alternative forms), feminist practice, divorce and child support.
Pollack, Shoshana, BA (Toronto), MSW (Carleton), PhD (Toronto). Violence against women, women's corrections, childhood abuse, gay/lesbian issues, feminist theory, anti-racist practice, qualitative research.
Stalker, Carol A., BA (Western), MSW (WLU), PhD (Smith). Childhood sexual abuse and health issues, mental health, clinical practice, women's issues.
Teram, Eli, BSW, MSc (Tel Aviv), PhD (McGill). Interdisciplinary teams, qualitative research, interorganizational relations, multiculturalism and services for newcomers, client-organization relations.
Westhues, Anne, BA, MSc (Guelph), MSW (WLU), DSW (Columbia). Planning, policy and evaluation, social work education, adoption.
PhD Cognate Faculty at Laurier
Baetz, Mark C., BA (Toronto), MBA, PhD (Western)
Bennett, Edward M., BA (Sir George Williams), MEd (Boston), MA (Yale), PhD (Case Western Reserve)
Cawsey, T. F., BSc (Royal Military), MBA, PhD (Western)
Clarke, Juanne, BA (Windsor), MA (York), PhD (Waterloo)
Deszca, Gene, BA, MBA (Western), PhD (York)
Eglin, Peter, BA (London), PhD (UBC)
Elliot, Patricia, M., BA, MA, PhD (York), BEd (Toronto)
Ellis, Robert J., BA (Carleton), MA, PhD (Waterloo)
Fournier, Bruce A., BA (Queen's), MA, PhD (York)
Gebotys, Robert J., BSc, MA, PhD (Toronto)
Harris, Ruth, BMath, MASc, PhD (Waterloo)
Harvey, Cheryl A., BA (Western), MSW (WLU), MBA, PhD (Western)
Hueglin, Thomas O., MA, PhD (St. Gall, Switz), Drhabil (Konstanz, W. Germ.)
Marr, William L., BA (McMaster), MA, PhD (Western Ontario)
McCready, Douglas J., BA (Windsor), MSc [Econ] (London), PhD (Alberta)
Naidoo, Josephine, BS (Witwatersrand), BSc (Hons.) (S. Africa), MA, PhD (Illinois)
Nelson, Geoffrey B., BA (Illinois), MA, PhD (Manitoba)
O'Dell, Leslie, BA (Queen's), MA, PhD (Toronto)
Pancer, S. Mark, BSc (Toronto), MA, PhD (Waterloo)
Peters, John F., BA (Wheaton), MA (Northern Illinois), PhD (Western Michigan)
Ross, Christopher. J., BA (Durham, England), MSc (Edinburgh), PhD (Calgary), C. Psych. (Ontario)
Walsh-Bowers, Richard, AB (St. Peter's College), MA (Manitoba), PhD (York)
Part-time Faculty
Absolon, Kathy, BA (Waterloo), MSW (WLU)
Adams, Shelley, BA (Waterloo), MSW (WLU)
Azim Fleming, Debbie, BA (Waterloo), MSW (WLU)
Botschner, Janos, BSc (McGill), BA, MA, PhD (Guelph)
Boyd, Jon, BA (Guelph), MSW (WLU)
Chen, Xiaobei, BA (Guizhou, China), MPhil (Hong Kong), PhD (Toronto)
Good Gingrich, Luann, BSc (Eastern Mennonite, Harrisonburg, P.A.), MSW(WLU)
Janzen, Rich, BA (Winnipeg), BA (Brock), MA (WLU)
Jeffery, Donna, BSc, BSW (Calgary), MA (OISE/UT)
Lessard, Susan, BA, MSW (WLU)
Montour, Sandra, BA (Waterloo), MSW (WLU)
Notar, Margaret, BSW (McGill), MA (Western), MSW (WLU)
Ochocka, Joanna, BA, MA, PhD (Silesia, Poland)
Riedel Bowers, Nancy, BA (Queen’s), MSW, PhD (WLU)
Ross-Rudow, Kate, BA (Waterloo), MSW (WLU)
Sadeler, Christiane, BA (Auckland, N.Z.), MA (WLU)
Shadd, Steven, BA (Western), MSW (WLU)
Skau, Bente, BA (WLU), MSW (Toronto)
Stocco, Rosalba, BA (Waterloo), MSW (WLU)
Taylor, Andrew, BA (Western), MA, PhD (Guelph)
Admission Requirements-MSW

A Bachelor's degree from a university or college of recognized standing. To be eligible for the Advanced Standing program, applicants must hold a Bachelor of Social Work degree from an accredited program in a university of recognized standing.

Academic background must include at least four full social science courses and a half-credit course in research methodology and a half-credit course in statistics.

For applicants who have already completed a Bachelor's degree, at least a B (73-76 percent) standing in the final academic year is required. For students completing their final year of undergraduate study, eligibility is determined on the basis of the last completed academic year.

Evidence such as paid and/or voluntary experience in human service organizations, awareness of contemporary social issues and social work values, demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, and motivation for a career as a professional social worker is assessed on the basis of application material.

Additional courses required for admission to the MSW Program that are completed after the requirements for the Bachelor's degree have been met will be calculated into the final year GPA. To be considered for admission, the re-calculated GPA must be at least a B average.
    Applicants who do not meet the above academic requirements and standards for admission may inquire about establishing academic eligibility. If applicants do not have a B standing in the final academic year, an additional five full courses may be taken to establish academic eligibility. A B average in the courses is required. Please contact the Admissions Co-ordinator for further details.
Application Deadlines
Advanced Standing-December 1
Two-Year Program-February 1
Part-Time Program-February 1 (every other year)
    All supporting materials (official transcripts, personal statement, references) must be postmarked by the deadline date.
Program Requirements-MSW
Curriculum
The MSW curriculum is designed to provide students with opportunities for personal growth and for learning consistent with the norms of advanced scholarship which will lead to the development of social work knowledge, skills and attitudes conducive to:

A broad understanding of major social problems, of the history of social welfare, of current Canadian and international social welfare policies and programs;

A broad understanding of the basic modes of social work intervention and of the foundation of knowledge pertaining to those interventions;

Responsible, advanced social work roles in

direct practice with individuals, families and groups; or

direct practice in community development and social planning; or

international social work practice and human development.

    To achieve the above objectives, the curriculum is organized into an integrated program of courses, independent study and social work practica. There are three content categories:

Content related to a common core of knowledge, skills and attitudes. This core content is required of all students.

Content related to the two concentration areas of social work practice. Each student must choose either: Practice with Individuals, Families and Groups or Community Development and Social Planning. In addition to these two areas of concentration a small number of students pursue a program of study in combination with an international practicum in their second year of study.

Graduate level electives (offered by the Faculty of Social Work or by other WLU departments) which provide students with opportunities to round out their program of study in terms of special interests or career expectations.

The Full-time MSW Program
Students will normally complete the program in two academic years. The first academic year consists of one 15-week term, one 17-week term and one 8-week term. The second year is composed of two 15-week terms.
    Advanced Standing students will normally complete the program in one calendar year.
The Part-time MSW Program
This four-year program is designed for students who do not possess a Bachelor of Social Work degree. Normally, students will be currently employed in a social services organization. Both the Individuals, Families and Groups (IFG) and the Community Development and Social Planning (CD/SP) concentrations are offered. Program requirements are identical to those in the two-year, full-time program, except that students complete one or two courses per term for three terms a year in the first three years and two terms in the fourth year.
    In the IFG concentration, courses are offered in the late afternoon or evening. Courses in the CD/SP concentration are completed during the day, at the same time they are offered to full-time MSW students.
    The academic admission requirements are the same as those for the two-year, full-time MSW program.
    Admission to the part-time program occurs every other year.
Program Regulations-The Part-time MSW Program

All students must begin and complete the program with their cohort. Students must be registered in every term of the program until completion of the degree.

Students are expected to complete one field practicum within their place of employment.

Students are required to complete a second field practicum in a setting other than their current place of employment.

Students originally registered in the part-time program normally are not permitted to transfer to the full-time program; nor are full-time students normally permitted to transfer to the part-time program.

The Practicum
All MSW students complete practicum placements in social work agencies and receive practice education and supervision from a Master of Social Work practitioner. Placements reflect the student's concentration of study, either community development and social planning or work with individuals, families and groups.
    Two-year program students complete placements of four days per week in each of the two years. Advanced Standing students complete one placement of three days per week, from September through April. Part-time MSW students complete one placement in their second year, consisting of two days per week for three academic terms and a second placement in their fourth year of study for two days per week for the Fall and Winter terms. Grading is on a Satisfactory/Fail basis for all placements.
    A small number of students pursue a program of study in combination with an international practicum in their second year. The practicum placements may be in either area of concentration.
Academic Regulations
Transfer of Credits and Course Equivalencies
Credit will be given only for graduate-level courses from a recognized university. Normally, the course must have been completed no longer than five years prior to the date of admission to the MSW program. Petitions for credit will only be received from students following admission to the MSW program. Normally, credit will be granted for no more than two half-credit courses. Application for credit is to be made to the MSW Curriculum and Petitions Committee with the following information:

an outline of the course content;

an outline of the course requirements;

an official transcript of the grade received for the course;

an alternative plan of study.

Requirements for Continuing in the Program
A letter grade of B- in each course (S [satisfactory] in practicum courses) is the minimum requirement for successful completion of a term. A student must complete all requirements for a given term before proceeding unless permission is granted by the MSW Curriculum and Petitions Committee. Please refer to page 77 for further information on petitions.
    In addition to successfully completing the academic courses, students must be judged to be capable of assuming the professional responsibilities of the practicum. Any student not meeting these requirements may be required by the Dean of the Faculty of Social Work to withdraw from the program.
Deferral of Course Assignments
Extensions for the completion of required course assignments, if granted by an instructor, must be complete before the end of the first month of the following term (January 31 for the Fall Term; May 31 for the Winter Term; September 30 for the Spring Term). If work from the previous term is incomplete, a student is placed on probation.
    Any request for extensions beyond one month into the following term must be presented to the MSW Curriculum and Petitions Committee.
Appeals
A student may appeal a decision of the MSW Curriculum and Petitions Committee of the Faculty of Social Work to the Petitions Committee of Graduate Faculty Council and further, to the Student Appeals Committee of the WLU Senate.
Course Schedule - MSW Two-Year Students (Full-time)
The MSW program consists of five consecutive terms (including Spring Term), taken over two academic years. Students are required to register and pay tuition in each of the five terms. Within the two years, the student ordinarily will take a minimum of 15 courses and 38 weeks of practicum, in two different practica settings. Of the 15 courses, 2 are electives. A student who selects the Thesis Option is exempt from two electives. A student who wishes to complete a thesis must contact the MSW Co-ordinator before the end of the second term of study. Guidelines for the preparation and submission of Master's theses, as well as information regarding the oral examination of theses, are found in the General Regulations section of the Calendar.
Year 1
Fall Term
All    SK500
All    SK501
All    SK502
All    SK522
All    SK641
Winter Term
IFG    SK552
CD/SP SK560
All    SK504
All    SK541 Practicum I
Spring Term
All    SK505
All    SK506
All    SK541 Practicum I
       SK698 (if selected)

Year 2
Fall Term
IFG   SK621
IFG   SK651 (or SK622 if accepted for an international placement
CD/SP Two of: SK636
              SK637
              SK638
              (or SK622 if accepted for an international placement)
All   SK643 Practicum II
      SK698 (if selected)
Winter Term
IFG   SK652
IFG   SK653
CD/SP SK639
CD/SP SK640
All   One of:
      Two Electives
      or SK698
MSW Advanced Standing Students (Full-time)
Advanced Standing students complete the MSW degree requirements in three academic terms (Fall, Winter, Spring). Normally they complete a minimum of nine courses and 30 weeks of practicum. A student who selects the Thesis Option is exempt from two electives. Guidelines for the preparation and submission of Master's theses, as well as information regarding the oral examination of theses, are found in the General Regulations section of the Calendar. A student who selects the Thesis Option must contact the MSW Co-ordinator in the first term of study.

Fall Term
IFG     SK621
IFG     SK651
CD/SP   Two of:
        SK636
        SK637
        SK638
All     SK504
All     SK649 Practicum (3 field days)
        SK698 (if selected)
Winter Term
IFG     SK652
CD/SP   SK560
CD/SP   SK639
All     SK649 Practicum (3 field days)
All     Two Electives or SK698
Spring Term
IFG     SK653
All     SK506
All     SK641
        SK698 (if selected)
MSW Students (Part-time)
Part-time IFG Program

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4

Fall Term Fall Term Fall Term Fall Term

SK500
SK522 SK541 Practicum I
SK504 SK621
SK651 SK643 Practicum II

Winter Term Winter Term Winter Term Winter Term

SK502
SK501 SK541 Practicum I
SK506 SK652
SK653 SK643 Practicum II
2 Electives*

Spring Term Spring Term Spring Term

SK552
SK641 SK541 Practicum I SK505

Part-time CD/SP Program

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4

Fall Term Fall Term Fall Term Fall Term

SK500
SK522 SK541 Practicum I
SK504 Two of:
SK636, SK637, SK638-days SK643 Practicum II

Winter Term Winter Term Winter Term Winter Term

SK502
SK501 SK541 Practicum I
SK560-days SK639-days
SK640-days SK643 Practicum II
2 Electives*

Spring Term Spring Term Spring Term

SK506-days
SK641 SK541 Practicum I SK505

*Electives may be taken in other terms. Consult the MSW Co-ordinator.
Graduate Courses-MSW
Note:

Not all courses are offered every year. Contact the Faculty before accepting an Offer of Admission to determine whether the courses you wish to complete will be offered during your period of residency.

All credit course offerings are subject to modification by the Faculty of Social Work and the University Senate. The University reserves the right to cancel courses for which there is insufficient registration.

All courses are two hours per week unless noted otherwise.

SK500    0.5
Human Growth and Development
A comparison and contrast of several frameworks for understanding normal growth and development throughout the life cycle. The biological, psychological and sociocultural aspects of development theories are explored.
SK501    0.5
Basic Community Interventions
An introduction to the basic concepts and methods of community development and organization. General rationales and interventions in community development and organization are explored, with particular emphasis on their relevance to common social work employment and field practicum settings (for example, developing community resources, developing an agency program, cross-organizational collaborations, advocacy, forming a community group).
SK502    0.5
Introduction to Group Work
An introduction to group dynamics, including basic group work concepts and skills relevant to diverse social work practice settings. An understanding of group processes and intervention methods in typical group treatment, community, organizational and planning situations is emphasized.

SK504    0.5
Techniques in Social Work Research
An overview of qualitative and quantitative research techniques used in the assessment of social work practice. Methods such as feasibility assessments, client profiles, observational strategies, interviews, questionnaires and standardized scales are reviewed. Students review selected outcome and other relevant studies and prepare a research proposal.
SK505    0.5
Understanding and Intervening in Social Work Organizations
An analysis of the structure and processes of social work organizations, including such issues as program development, burnout, supervision, women in management, working with boards and facilitating organizational change.
SK506    0.5
Data Analysis in Social Work Research
The application of analytic frameworks, statistical and qualitative, to social work research. Statistical techniques include descriptive statistics, measures of central tendency, correlation and analysis of between-group differences. An additional one hour lab per week is provided for skill development in the use of software such as SPSS and Ethnograph.
SK522    0.5
Clinical Social Work Practice with Individuals
A study of clinical theories and practice pertaining to the treatment of individuals. Areas to be covered include human growth and development, dysfunctioning, diagnosis and the related treatment interventions.
SK531    0.5
Social Welfare Seminar
An examination of selected social problems and issues.
SK532    0.5
Social Welfare Seminar
An examination of selected social problems and issues.
SK533    0.5
Social Welfare Seminar
An examination of selected social problems and issues.
SK534    0.5
Tutorial
A student may select a topic from any area of the curriculum.
SK535    0.5
Tutorial
A student may select a topic from any area of the curriculum.
SK536    0.5
Tutorial
A student may select a topic from any area of the curriculum.
SK537    0.5
Tutorial
A special tutorial that may be arranged during the summer period for selected students requiring make-up work.
SK541    0.5
Practicum I
The practicum is an integral part of the curriculum and is structured to enable students to use their knowledge as professional social workers in practice situations with major emphasis in either Practice with Individuals, Families and Groups or Community Development and Social Planning, and minor emphasis in the other areas of social work (23 weeks).
SK549     0.5
Special Summer Practicum
A practicum may be arranged during the summer period for selected students requiring make-up work for admission to Practicum III. It may be used for transfer students or for students completing the first year of the Faculty's program who wish to change their area of concentration.
SK552    0.5
Clinical Social Work Practice with Families
A presentation of concepts and skills in family unit treatment relevant to student practice in the first field placement.
SK560    0.5
Community Practice Skills
This course supplements the core course in community development and social planning by focusing upon specific skill areas and operational problems pertinent to these fields of endeavour. The course introduces the relevant literature on work methods, techniques and skills, and the class provides simulated opportunities to practice these interventions.
SK619    0.5
Family Violence
This course addresses different types of family violence (wife abuse, child abuse and elder abuse) in terms of the seriousness and extent of the problem, contributing factors and consequences for the individual, the family, the community and society. A variety of different theories about the causes of family violence are reviewed. Programs for prevention and intervention are addressed, including approaches for battered women, children who have witnessed violence and men who batter. Intervention in cases of physical child abuse and elder abuse is also discussed.
SK620    0.5
Marital and Couple Counselling
An introduction to the theory and practice of couples therapy from the perspective of several theoretical models.
SK621    0.5
Differential Use of Self
The emphasis of this course is on the differential use of self as it relates to the direct treatment experiences of the students during Practicum III.
SK622     0.5
International Placement: Self, Identity and Diversity
A required course for students who have been accepted for an international placement in the second year of the MSW program. The goal of the course is to prepare students for an international learning opportunity and to support the integration of their learning and practice across cultures and settings, including an improved understanding of reciprocal and mutual learning between and among cultures. Cross-cultural learning, colonialism and oppression, and anti-racism are discussed.
SK624     0.5
Feminist Therapy
An examination of the socio-political-economic inequities which have an impact on the emotional well-being of women and women's self-esteem. The course will focus on the weakness of psychodynamic, humanistic and systems approaches when applied to presenting problems of women: depression, wife abuse, sexual assault and incest.
SK625    0.5
Social Work with Separated, Divorced and Reconstituted Families
The effects of divorce on families as they move through the transitions from marital disintegration to reorganization as separate units and on to formation of new or reconstituted families.
SK629    0.5
Values and Ethical Issues in Contemporary Social Work
This seminar deals with selected current issues, controversies or dilemmas of professional social work practice in Canada, and with the value premises and orientations prevalent in the profession and in our society.
SK632    0.5
Treatment Issues
A selection of treatment issues and their applications.
Note: This course is used as the vehicle for adding a number of additional clinical topics when it is deemed appropriate.
SK633    0.5
Social Welfare Seminar
An examination of selected social problems and issues.
SK634     0.5
Tutorial
A student may select a topic from any area of the curriculum.
SK636    0.5
Adult Learning Theory, Leadership and Empowerment
An introduction to the theories of androgogy, empowerment and leadership/member development. The theories are applied in practice as students learn how to create workshops, to staff committees and boards, to facilitate self-help groups, to organize services and programs and to mobilize community leadership initiatives.
SK637     0.5
Prevention, Mutual Aid and Social Support
An examination of a range of prevention, mutual aid and social support approaches relevant to various disadvantaged populations. A review is made of various program models or approaches to helping, of the evidence for their effectiveness, and of their development requirements. The relevance of these ideas and methods for social work is examined.
SK638    0.5
The Use of Technology for Project and Program Planning
An examination/analysis of the use of technology for project planning, program evaluation and for the development and management of social programs and services.
SK639    0.5
Planning in Social and Community Development: Theories and Methods
A critical examination of different planning traditions and of current models relevant to practice in organizational and community development. A particular emphasis will be placed on understanding the process and sequential phases involved in community and strategic planning as it applies to governmental and non-governmental agencies and organizations. The appropriate linkage between planning efforts and broader social movements is of special concern.
SK640    0.5
Integrative Problem Solving
Case studies and simulations are used to foster understanding of the various approaches to community work and social planning, and the situations in which they may be useful. The course facilitates the development of an integrative framework for the role of the social worker.
SK641    0.5
Social Policy Analysis
An introduction to the history of social welfare and the roots of the social work profession. The primary focus is a critical analysis of current policies to provide students with practical skills and techniques for policy analysis to provide a greater understanding of the role policy plays in all aspects of the social work profession, and to provide a framework for understanding the economic, social, political, environmental forces that have an impact on substantive areas of social policy in Canada.
SK642    0.5
Research Methods, Design and Analysis
An examination of the problem formulation, design, data collection, analysis, and reporting and use of research findings, including exposure to quantitative and qualitative research approaches. The assessment of social work practice is emphasized.
SK643    0.5
Practicum II
A supervised field experience designed to develop competence pertinent to social work practice in the student's chosen area of concentration (15 weeks).
SK649    0.5
Advanced Standing Practicum
A supervised field experience designed to develop competence pertinent to social work practice in the student's chosen area of concentration (30 weeks).
SK651    0.5
Human Dysfunction: The Advanced Treatment of Individuals
An advanced course on the theories of psychopathology in the context of the treatment of individuals.
SK652    0.5
Advanced Clinical Social Work Treatment of Families
The advanced study of clinical theories of the family. Areas to be covered include familial pathology, diagnosis and related treatment skills.
SK653    0.5
Advanced Clinical Social Work Treatment of Groups
The advanced study of clinical theories of treatment groups. Topics include pathology, diagnosis and related treatment skills.
SK655    0.5
Psychoanalytic Theory
An extensive examination of selected aspects of psychoanalytic theory and its application to clinical social work practice. The course is intended to deepen and complement the clinical student's knowledge base related to normal growth and development, family and group functioning, clinical assessment and treatment skills.
SK657    0.5
Treatment of Children and Adolescents
Clinical theory and practice related to direct intervention with children and adolescents. Topics include understanding development in infancy, childhood and adolescence, examining problems that arise between children and their families, and enhancing assessment and treatment skills in relation to these problems.
SK658    0.5
Social Work Practice with Older Adults
Focusing on practice with older adults and their families, the course examines areas such as role transition in later life, retirement, physical, social and economic changes, intergenerational family intervention, losses, widowhood, and grief reactions.
SK659    0.5
Human Sexuality
Presentation of the physiological, psychological, emotional and systematic aspects of human sexuality. The course includes an assessment of sexual problems and dysfunction and various treatment approaches relevant to social work practice.
SK660    0.5
Minorities, Multiculturalism and Social Work Practice
An analysis of the uprooting experience, settlement and integration of new immigrants, refugees and aboriginal peoples from the perspective of their minority status and treatment, cultural differences and/or realities of racism in the Canadian context. Specific legislation and current programs are reviewed, and the research literature is critically examined for appropriate clinical, community and policy responses.
SK662     0.5
Social and Political Action
An examination of the theory and practice of social and political action and their relevance to social work. The course explores ideological and value issues arising from social and political action and critically examines various attempts to translate these ideas into practice.
SK675    0.5
The Third World and Social Work Practice
This seminar critically examines the different perspectives on, and realities of, development and underdevelopment; policies and practices of international aid and humanitarian agencies; and the role of social work in addressing human rights and needs of such groups as the displaced, unwanted refugees, victims of terror, the impoverished and children.
SK677    0.5
The Therapeutic Process
This course emphasizes selected aspects of the therapeutic process and their implications for interventions, especially those processes central to the treatment of individuals in longer-term therapy. The course focuses on selected process variables that comprise an understanding of transference, countertransference and intersubjectivity as well as other process variables such as resistance, regression and the therapeutic alliance (permission of the Instructor).
SK681    0.5
Services to Families with Children-at-risk
This course focuses on services to families with children at risk of abuse or neglect. Topics include an understanding of family violence, legal issues, use of authority and types of treatment and family support options that are relevant.
SK688     0.5
Social Work in Health Care Settings
This course examines the impact of illness and disability on individuals, families and communities. It provides a bio-psycho-social frame of reference for understanding health and disease. The major focus will be on social work roles in the interdisciplinary health care systems.
SK689    0.5
Women and Social Policy
The different ideological positions that shape policy pertaining to women are introduced in this course. Selected policies are reviewed, using a critical approach. An analysis is also made of the impact of organizational structure on women and women's policy issues.
SK692    0.5
Women's Issues in Social Work
This course provides a critical examination of the treatment of women by the social work profession. The developing literature on feminist approaches to helping and on alternative ways of understanding and addressing the unique social, political and economic influences on women will be utilized.
SK694    0.5
Social Work and the Law
An examination of the increasingly critical and complex relationships between social work practice and policy and the law. Issues such as legal responsibilities, client rights, liability, working with the legal system and the impact of selected current legislation are examined.
SK695     0.5
Poverty in Canada and its Implications for Social Work
An investigation of the prevalence and impact of economic hardship among the users of social services and the implication of these patterns for social work values, policies and direct interventions with this population.
SK696    0.5
Mediation in Social Work Practice
The course includes the study of mediation and principled negotiation and their use in all areas of social work practice. The historical, cultural and legal contexts of mediation are included. Concepts, methodology, ethics and current legal issues are examined. The course provides opportunities for voluntary experiential learning.
SK698
Thesis
A thesis formulated and completed in the student's area of concentration.

Field Teaching Centres
Wilfrid Laurier University gratefully acknowledges the assistance of the many social service organizations in the Kitchener-Waterloo, Hamilton, London, Guelph, Toronto and surrounding area who provide high-quality practicum instruction for WLU's Master of Social Work students.
Admission Requirements-PhD
The PhD program seeks applicants who possess the following qualifications:

A Master of Social Work degree or the equivalent. At least a B standing in the final academic year of the Master's program is required.

A minimum of three years of social work experience. In addition, the applicant must provide evidence of a level of professional competence suitable for admission to the PhD program.

Evidence of scholarly ability for clear and creative thinking and the ability to pursue independent study.

Deadline for receipt of applications is February 15. A late application may be considered if space is available.
Program Requirements-PhD
Course Work
The program consists of a minimum of nine half-credit courses. Some are required courses for all students, some are from a group corresponding to the student's area of concentration, and some are electives reflecting the special needs or interests of the student.
    The required courses are as follows:

SK700 Statistical Analysis for Social Work Research;

SK701 Multivariate Analysis for Social Work Research;

SK702 Advanced Methods in Social Work Research;

SK703 Perspectives on Theory Construction;

SK805 Qualitative Research Methods.

    Each student must select one of the following interventive practice areas and take at least two courses pertaining to that area. The interventive areas presently available are as follows:

practice with individuals;

practice with families;

practice with groups;

practice in community development;

practice in social administration;

practice in social policy analysis.

Students are also expected to complete two other elective courses.
    During the first academic term each student, in collaboration with the PhD Program Co-ordinator, will prepare a study plan based on the above guidelines.
Statistics-Challenge-for-Credit
Incoming students may take an examination designed to test their knowledge of statistics. A passing grade on the examination grants an exemption from SK700.
Comprehensive Paper
The PhD Comprehensive Paper serves to assess the student's ability to: (1) integrate social work knowledge, theory and practice; (2) analyze the implications of knowledge and theory for social work practice; and, (3) demonstrate a broad knowledge of the selected interventive area.
    Students complete a comprehensive paper and an oral examination. Guidelines for the content, scheduling and format of the examination are included in the PhD Student Manual.
    Students must register for SK893 by the fourth term in residence. All requirements for SK893 must be completed no later than the sixth term in residence. The Chairperson and the members of the Comprehensive Examination Committee must be appointed at least four months prior to the proposed examination date.
    All members of an Examining Committee must have Graduate Faculty Status at the time of appointment to the committee.
    One of two decisions are open to the Examiners: Pass or Fail.
    To pass the Comprehensive Paper, a student must receive a passing grade from at least two of the three readers. A student must receive a passing grade on both the written paper and the oral defence. If a student receives a failing grade on the paper, an oral examination to defend the paper will not be permitted.
    Students who successfully complete the Comprehensive Examination are admitted to candidacy for the PhD degree and are entitled to register for the Doctoral dissertation (SK899).
    A student failing the Comprehensive Paper can rewrite the Comprehensive Paper once. A student who does not complete the requirements for SK893 after two attempts, or within three consecutive terms, will be required to withdraw from the PhD program.
Residence Requirements
Students are required to spend a minimum of four terms as full-time students. It is expected that most students will extend this period beyond the minimum.
Examinations
All standards for examinations are set by the Graduate Faculty Council and the Senate of the University. The regulations for Doctoral students are as follows:

The student is expected to pass, with a minimum of a B grade, the core courses and all additional course work required by the PhD Committee.

In addition, the student is required to write and orally defend a comprehensive paper covering the same area of concentration.

Practicum
The role of the practicum is to enhance a student's ability to translate new concepts into forms pertinent to social work practice and scholarship.
    The PhD Committee, following an assessment of the student, may recommend a practicum as part of the study plan. A student may also request permission to complete one practicum.
    Supervisors of these placements will normally have a doctorate as well as considerable practice experience. Grading will be on a satisfactory/failure basis and will utilize the written learning objectives agreed to by the student and supervisor, which will include at least one written assignment per credit. A practicum will be for a minimum of three contact hours a week over a 13-week period, including at least one hour of supervision, for one-half credit. A maximum of three half-credits can be taken as practica, however a student who chooses to complete a practicum will be exempt from only one elective, regardless of the number of practica.
PhD Dissertation Requirements
All students are required to complete an original dissertation that makes a significant contribution to the existing knowledge in the field of social work.
    If a dissertation topic involves animals or human subjects, approval for the investigation must be sought from the WLU Research Ethics Board. Details are available from the Research Office.
Decisions of the Dissertation Examining Committee
The Examining Committee must reach one of five decisions:

Accepted-The dissertation requires typographical and/or minor editorial changes which must be approved by the Supervisor.

Accepted with minor modifications-The dissertation requires minor changes in substance or major editorial changes which are to be made to the satisfaction of members of the Examining Committee designated by the Committee. The Examining Committee's report must include a brief outline of the nature of the changes required and must indicate the time by which the changes are to be completed. Normally, such changes should be completed within four weeks of the date of the examination.

Accepted with major modifications-The dissertation requires more substantive changes, but will be acceptable when these changes are made to the satisfaction of those members of the Examining Committee designated by the Committee. The Examining Committee's report must include a brief outline of the nature of the changes required, and the date by which the changes are to be completed.

Decision deferred-The dissertation requires modifications of a substantial nature, the need for which makes the acceptability of the dissertation questionable. The Examining Committee's report must contain a brief outline of the modifications expected and should indicate the time by which the changes are to be completed. The revised dissertation must be resubmitted to the Faculty of Graduate Studies for re-examination. The re-examination will follow the same procedures as for the initial submission except that the display period may be reduced or eliminated at the discretion of the Dean of Graduate Studies and Research. Normally, the same Examining Committee will serve. A decision to defer is open only once for each candidate.

Rejected-The dissertation is rejected. The Examining Committee shall report the reasons for rejection. A student whose dissertation has been rejected will be required to withdraw from the PhD program.
Course Schedule-PhD
Term One (Fall)

SK700 Statistical Analysis for Social Work Research (Challenge-for-Credit course)

SK702 Advanced Methods in Social Work Research

SK703 Perspectives on Theory Construction

Term Two (Winter)

SK701 Multivariate Analysis for Social Work Research

SK805 Qualitative Research Methods

First course in the student's interventive area

Term Three(Spring)

Second course in the student's interventive area

Elective

Elective

Term Four to Six (Fall, Winter, Spring)

SK893 Comprehensive Paper-This is the period during which all requirements for the comprehensive paper must be completed.

The residency requirement is completed at the end of the fourth term. Any make-up work that may have been required as a condition of admission must be completed before the end of the fourth term.

Candidacy Period
Following admission to candidacy, students have a maximum of nine terms (three calendar years) for the completion of the dissertation. It is necessary to maintain continuous registration unless an inactive term has been granted per University policy.
Time Limits and Status-PhD
Note: Each PhD student is required to submit an annual progress report to the PhD Program Co-ordinator by April 1. The faculty members on the PhD Committee review the report and following this review, the PhD Program Co-ordinator provides feedback to the student no later than April 30.
Pre-Candidacy (Years I and II)
Students are expected to spend at least four (but not more than six) academic terms in preliminary study to qualify for admission to candidacy for the PhD degree. Students may apply for such candidacy when they have met the following requirements:

Successfully completed the required courses and any additional course work prescribed by the student's Doctoral Committee.

Successfully completed and defended the Comprehensive Paper.

Candidacy (Year III and Beyond)
Following admission to candidacy, a student has a maximum of nine terms (three calendar years) in which to meet the following requirements:

Completion of additional course and/or practicum requirements prescribed by the Doctoral Committee.

Completion and defence of the dissertation.

It is necessary to maintain continuous registration unless an inactive term has been granted per University policy. No inactive terms will be granted after nine terms (three calendar years).
Graduate Courses-PhD
Note:

Not all courses are offered each year. Contact the Faculty before accepting an offer of admission to determine whether the courses you wish to complete will be offered during your period of residency.

All courses are two hours per week unless noted otherwise.

SK700    0.5
Statistical Analysis for Social Work Research
The application of statistical procedures to social work research, such as data reduction techniques, descriptive statistics, measures of central tendency, correlation and analyses of between-group differences (Challenge-for-Credit).
SK701    0.5
Multivariate Analysis for Social Work Research
This course explores advanced correlational statistical analyses and their applications for social work research. Possible topics include various multiple linear regression models, discriminant analysis and path analysis. The course employs computer applications (required for all students).
Prerequisite: SK700 or successful completion of the competency exam.
SK702    0.5
Advanced Methods in Social Work Research
This course explores a range of qualitative and quantitative social science research methodologies that can be applied to the study of social work issues. Students acquire a critical understanding of the comparative advantages and disadvantages of different methods with reference to selected research problems (required for all students).
SK703    0.5
Perspectives on Theory Construction
This course focuses on issues in the philosophy of social science and the impact of these philosophies on the construction and refinement of theories that serve as foundations for the development of social work knowledge. This course draws on the field of epistemology, the philosophy of science, theories of social work practice and related disciplines (required for all students).
SK711    0.5
The Study of Treatment of Families I
This course examines contemporary family therapy theory and research, and critically assesses its application to selected problems and issues.
SK712    0.5
The Study of Treatment of Families II
This course extends the work of SK711. Students identify selected areas of interest and are expected to pursue these topics to the limits of available knowledge (theory and research) within the field of social work and related disciplines.
SK714    0.5
Advanced Groupwork I
This course examines the development of groupwork concepts and principles in the social work and related social science literature. It also analyzes selected theories, major groupwork models and examines the research findings, as well as designs and methodologies, related to groupwork practice.
SK715    0.5
Advanced Groupwork II
This course, a continuation of SK714, examines current models of groupwork as an interventive and investigative method, and considers the analysis and delineation of group therapy and social group work research practices, and the application of theoretical frameworks to specific populations.
SK721    0.5
Child Welfare as a Field for Social Work Practice
Following the development of an historical perspective, this course explores selected areas of child welfare such as prevention, protection or adoption. Special emphasis is given to the exploration of alternate models for the delivery of such services and to the review of existing research assessing the effectiveness of these services.
SK722    0.5
Aging as a Context for Social Work Practice
Course participants explore and define the range and nature of policy, services and practices for the elderly, examine and clarify the roles of social work and social workers in the field of aging, and analyze the state of gerontological research in general and in relation to social work in particular.
SK723    0.5
Mental Health as a Context for Social Work Practice
This course examines the major approaches used in promoting mental health in the community and dealing with mental health problems. Such topics as theories and principles of mental health, major approaches to mental health practice and mental health services for specific populations are addressed.
SK731    0.5
Advanced Studies in Social Planning
The content of the course varies, depending upon the learning goals of the students. Possible theoretical foci include planning theory or theories of the public interest. Practice foci might include policy analysis, policy research, program development, economic and ethical models of choice and the socio-political dimensions of social planning.
SK732    0.5
Advanced Studies in Community Development
The content of the course varies, depending upon the learning goals of the students. Possible foci may include theories, research and ideological perspectives on community development. Practice foci might include such dimensions as local initiative, self-help, local control, leadership and organizational development.
SK734    0.5
Current Issues in Community Development
This course examines current theory, research and practice issues in community development. Attention is paid to a theoretical and empirical assessment of selected methods of community development and their relevance to current contexts.
SK735     0.5
Advanced Studies in Policy Analysis
This course is designed to advance students' knowledge of the range and characteristics of approaches to social policy analysis. Selected techniques are examined and applied to specific social policies.
SK736    0.5
Multidisciplinary Perspectives on Social Policy
This course examines selected social policies by employing the theoretical contributions and techniques of political science, economics and sociology.
SK737    0.5
Advanced Studies in Organizational Theory
This course examines social administration in the context of organizational and management theories. Students analyze the political and ideological considerations that determine the adoption of certain theories by exploring a wide range of theories and examining their practical implications for the management of social service organizations.
SK738    0.5
Advanced Studies in Social Administration
This course provides students with an opportunity to explore, in depth, selected aspects for the delivery of specific social welfare programs. Selected topics are examined in the context of existing research, theories and current practice applications.
Prerequisite: SK737 or permission of the Instructor.
SK741    0.5
Study of Treatment of Individuals I
This course provides an intensive examination of selected major theoretical and technical developments affecting social work intervention with individuals. The emphasis is on a critical assessment of such developments from a theoretical, empirical and practice perspective.
SK742     0.5
Study of Treatment of Individuals II
This course employs a seminar model for extending the work begun in SK741. Within a framework defined by the student's special interests, the course explores contemporary understandings of processes of change in individual treatment, obstacles to change and the nature of the helping relationship.
SK743    0.5
Contemporary Psychoanalytic Theory
A study of contemporary developments in psychoanalytic theory and their implications for clinical practice. The major focus of the seminar is on selected developments within the three major streams of psychoanalysis: Classical Theory (Ego Psychology), Object Relations Theories (The English, British and American Schools) and Self Psychology.
SK751    0.5
Advanced Readings in Social Work Practice
Readings on selected topics in social work practice under the guidance and supervision of members of the Graduate Faculty.
SK752    0.5
Advanced Readings in Social Policy
Readings on selected topics in social policy under the guidance and supervision of members of the Graduate Faculty.
SK753    0.5
Advanced Readings in Research Methods
Readings on selected topics in research methods under the guidance and supervision of members of the Graduate Faculty.
SK754    0.5
Classical Literature in Social Work
A study of the texts that have influenced the theory and practice of social work in order to critically appraise their contribution to social work knowledge and its epistemological foundation.
SK755    0.5
Social Work Education: History and Current Themes
An analysis of the history of social work education, including the tensions between Practice and Theory, the objectives of the practicum, the core knowledge for graduate education, the undergraduate foundation, the teaching of values and ethics, accreditation and other educational policy issues.
SK756    0.5
Teaching Teachers to Teach
This course studies teaching and learning at the post-secondary and professional levels of education within the context of the university. Particular emphasis is given to the application of educational theory, models, practices, design and technology at undergraduate and graduate levels, particularly for the discipline of Social Work.
SK802    0.5
Evaluation of Social Work Programs and Services
This course offers an advanced investigation of current methods for evaluating programs and services. Topics include: measurement of processes and outcomes, needs assessment, impact analysis, the politics of evaluation and relevant ethical issues.
Prerequisite: SK701.
SK803    0.5
Clinical Research Methods
An advanced investigation of quantitative and qualitative research methods germane to the evaluation of clinical practice. Topics include measurement of clinical processes and outcomes, the use of single subject designs, approaches to the analysis of clinical data and relevant ethical issues.
Prerequisite: SK701 and SK702.
SK805    0.5
Qualitative Research Methods
An in-depth exploration of the application of qualitative methods to social work research problems, including problem formulation, data collection options and the analysis of qualitative data (required for all students).
Prerequisite: SK701 and SK702.
SK806    0.5
Advanced Multivariate Models
Specific topics vary according to the needs and interests of the students in a given class. Possible topics include canonical correlational analysis, factor and cluster analysis, LOGIT, PROBIT, and path analysis.
Prerequisite: SK701 and SK702.
SK807    0.5
Advanced Doctoral Research Seminar
Directed study in major research topics emerging in the field of social work.
Prerequisite: SK701 and SK702.
SK808    0.5
Practicum I
The purpose of the practicum at the doctoral level is to enhance a student's ability to translate concepts into forms pertinent to social work practice and scholarship.
SK809    0.5
Practicum II
A continuation of SK808, Practicum I.
SK810    0.5
Practicum III
A continuation of SK809, Practicum II.
SK893
Comprehensive Examination
SK899
PhD Dissertation

Year 1	Year 2	Year 3	Year 4
*Fall Term*	*Fall Term*	*Fall Term*	*Fall Term*
SK500 SK522	SK541 Practicum I SK504	SK621 SK651	SK643 Practicum II
*Winter Term*	*Winter Term*	*Winter Term*	*Winter Term*
SK502 SK501	SK541 Practicum I SK506	SK652 SK653	SK643 Practicum II 2 Electives*
*Spring Term*	*Spring Term*	*Spring Term*
SK552 SK641	SK541 Practicum I	SK505