School Social Work Program

This course offers an orientation to social work practice in schools. It provides knowledge and skills for analyzing educational programs and policies for schools functioning under public and private settings. Students will learn about various approaches to the social work role in schools and school social work practices.

The course provides an overview of ecological systems in schools, critical policy issues impacting education, and relevant prevention and intervention strategies to promote the right to education of oppressed and special populations (including children and youth with mental, physical, and emotional disabilities, economic and geographical disadvantages, and diverse ethnic and linguistic backgrounds).

This course is split into two parts – knowledge of and interventions with child and family issues, and play therapy as an intervention modality. The first part of the course covers several aspects of working with children and their families, including child development, trust-based relational intervention, childhood disorders, divorce and adoption.

The play therapy section is a basic introduction to working with children as clients in a play therapy modality. The history of play therapy, the various theoretical approaches to play therapy, and some basic play therapy concepts will be learned and practiced. Students will learn how and why play therapy is a treatment modality for children. An emphasis on practice with marginalized populations is infused throughout the course.

This course provides an overview of theories and models of social work intervention with individuals, children and families. Students learn the philosophy and theoretical constructs of a variety of methods, as well as how and when to apply those methods.

Students develop knowledge and use of skills for the application of research-informed models of direct social work with individuals and families. Advanced practice skills are emphasized, with particular attention to engagement and intervention. This course is focused on practical application and is experiential.

*This course may be waived or transferred if the department determines that you have previously met the competencies taught in the course.

These courses are designed as a companion for the practicum placement and provides an opportunity for social work students to apply academic learning to advanced professional social work practice under the supervision of a qualified and experienced social work practitioner. It bridges classroom learning and the practice of social work through faculty coordination of the practicum experience and facilitation of the seminar sessions.  

These hours may be worked in your current place of employment if you are currently working in a school setting that meets TSPC qualifications.