Social Work Courses at Capella University
Program Name:
DSW - General Social Work
| Advanced Knowledge of Social Work |
| Course Number |
DSW8002 |
| Credits |
6.0 |
In This Course, Learners Review And Expand Their Knowledge Of Social Work. In Particular, Learners Focus On Community-related Research, Social Policy, Human Behavior, And Clinical Practice. Dsw8002 Must Be Taken By Dsw Learners In Their First Quarter. Cannot Be Fulfilled By Transfer. |
| Contemporary Issues in Social Work |
| Course Number |
DSW8120 |
| Credits |
6.0 |
In this course, learners explore current and emerging administrative, behavioral, and educational theories and interventions within the field of social work. Learners examine complementary and alternative methods of research and medicine and evaluate ethical issues associated with clients, organizations, and communities. Prerequisite(s): DSW8002. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
| Leadership in Social Work |
| Course Number |
DSW8130 |
| Credits |
6.0 |
Learners in this course explore ways to advance the role of social workers as leaders in public and nonprofit social agencies who improve the quality of social services. Learners apply leadership theories to professional practice and articulate the ways leaders in social work impact domestic, global, and environmental issues. Prerequisite(s): DSW8120. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
| Technology in Social Work |
| Course Number |
DSW8140 |
| Credits |
6.0 |
In this course, learners evaluate the contribution of technology to the social work profession and focus on developing the skills needed to use technology to promote innovation within the field and to increase global understanding of social work issues. Prerequisite(s): DSW8130. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
| Methods of Inquiry in Action Research |
| Course Number |
DSW8150 |
| Credits |
6.0 |
The focus of this course is application of action research as a research methodology. Learners explore action research literature and articulate the ways action research can be used within a specific topic of study. Learners also prepare a time line for an action research project. Prerequisite(s): DSW8140. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
| Applying Action Research |
| Course Number |
DSW8160 |
| Credits |
6.0 |
The focus on this course is applying action research methodology to an action research project. Learners spend the quarter engaging in a face-to-face research experience at a site where they intend to conduct their action research dissertation project. Learners solidify their research topic, present an outline of their dissertation proposal, and plan the steps for completing and implementing the project in preparation for the dissertation. Prerequisite(s): DSW8150. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
| Professional Dissertation Writer’s Retreat (non-credit) |
| Course Number |
DW-R8001 |
| Credits |
0.0 |
| Action Research Dissertation Courseroom (non-credit) |
| Course Number |
DSW9920 |
| Credits |
0.0 |
The Dsw Dissertation Is A Participatory Action Research Project Undertaken By Learners In Their Area Of Interest Within The Field Of Social Work. This Course Provides Learners With Resources And Guidance As They Complete The Required Milestones In Their Dissertation Research. Grading For This Course Is R/ns. Prerequisite(s): Dsw8160. Cannot Be Fulfilled By Transfer. |
| Action Research Dissertation 1 |
| Course Number |
DSW9921 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners Complete The Required Dissertation Milestones And Prepare Their Dissertation For Publication. Grading For These Courses Is R/ns. Courses Must Be Taken In Sequence. Prerequisite(s): Dw-r8001, Dsw8160, And Concurrent Enrollment In Dsw9920. Cannot Be Fulfilled By Transfer. |
| Action Research Dissertation 2 |
| Course Number |
DSW9922 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners Complete The Required Dissertation Milestones And Prepare Their Dissertation For Publication. Grading For These Courses Is R/ns. Courses Must Be Taken In Sequence. Prerequisite(s): Dw-r8001, Dsw8160, And Concurrent Enrollment In Dsw9920. Cannot Be Fulfilled By Transfer. |
| Action Research Dissertation 3 |
| Course Number |
DSW9923 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners Complete The Required Dissertation Milestones And Prepare Their Dissertation For Publication. Grading For These Courses Is R/ns. Courses Must Be Taken In Sequence. Prerequisite(s): Dw-r8001, Dsw8160, And Concurrent Enrollment In Dsw9920. Cannot Be Fulfilled By Transfer. |
| Action Research Dissertation 4 |
| Course Number |
DSW9924 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners Complete The Required Dissertation Milestones And Prepare Their Dissertation For Publication. Grading For These Courses Is R/ns. Courses Must Be Taken In Sequence. Prerequisite(s): Dw-r8001, Dsw8160, And Concurrent Enrollment In Dsw9920. Cannot Be Fulfilled By Transfer. |
| Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Educational Process |
| Course Number |
ED7310 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
The focus of this course is on higher education program evaluation. Learners analyze various program evaluation models used to assess the effectiveness of college and university education programs. Learners also design appropriate and effective program evaluation models and use them to conduct an evaluation of a simulated program. |
| Theory and Methods of Educating Adults |
| Course Number |
ED7311 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners study adult learning theory and learning styles and preferences to gain an understanding of the roles of instructor and student in adult education. Learners examine the ways race, ethnicity, class, gender, ability, and other forms of diversity impact the theory and practice of adult education. Learners further develop their skills in selecting and applying appropriate materials, methods, and techniques used to achieve particular learning objectives. This course incorporates adult learning from both theoretical and personal perspectives. |
| Leadership in Higher Education |
| Course Number |
ED7540 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine the leadership philosophies, theories, and decision-making structures associated with higher education administration. Learners explore the nature and function of leadership; leadership roles; and institutional history, vision, culture, politics, and organizational structure. |
| Assessment in Higher Education |
| Course Number |
ED7547 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides an overview of the assessment strategies and techniques employed by leaders in higher education. Learners examine the connection between assessment strategies and higher education practices both in and out of the classroom and from the perspectives of various higher education stakeholders. |
| Psychopathology: Assessment and Treatment |
| Course Number |
CST8731 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course is a forum for examining the various forms of psychopathology, current methods of psychological assessment, research on psychodynamics, and existing treatment methods. Learners explore the politics of mental disorders, emerging diagnoses, and other contemporary issues. |
| Mental Health and Aging |
| Course Number |
CST8758 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners examine the dramatic increase in the population of older persons and the increase in attention to their mental and physical health. This course addresses mental health and aging as major psychosocial phenomena integrating biological, psychological, social, and environmental perspectives and factors. Learners explore research in these areas as a function of many aspects of modern society: family life, caregivers, community and institutional care, ethnic and sociocultural differences, and urbanization.
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| Practicum 1: Short-Term Supervised Field Experience |
| Course Number |
HS6001 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course participate in a supervised, professional experience at a human services agency during which they focus on developing first-hand knowledge and skills in their discipline. |
| Epistemology of Practice Knowledge |
| Course Number |
HS8106 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine theories that guide the acquisition of knowledge within human services professions. Learners critically analyze and evaluate the methods used to develop social science theory as a precursor to examining and applying the scientific method. Learners also study theory derivation, the link between research methods and theory, and the ways scholar-practitioners apply the scientific method. |
| Principles and Practices of Social Work |
| Course Number |
HS8103 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course is an overview of principles, methods, and practice models for intervention and social change through work with groups and communities. Learners examine theoretical perspectives of group and community organizing as well as advocacy models, grassroots participation, and the empowerment of disadvantaged groups. Learners also explore theories and methods of present-day social work practices with individuals, families, and organizations. |
| Financial Analysis and Reporting for Nonprofit Executives |
| Course Number |
HS8108 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners explore techniques and principles of financial analysis and management including budgeting, finance and investment decision making, revenue management, internal control, and cost management for the nonprofit. In addition, learners examine current economic thinking about the role of nonprofit organizations in a market economy, cross-subsidization and competition, and cost-benefit analysis; they analyze timely financial issues, transactions, and trends in nonprofit finance. Topics include innovative financing techniques, complicated organizational structures, mergers, and bankruptcy. Database and spreadsheet scenarios and sensitivity analysis of finance topics, through the use of analytical models, are used to create effective tools for financial decision making. Prior knowledge in the areas of accounting and finance, and familiarity with financial statements are expected. |
| Social Influences of Behavior |
| Course Number |
HS8413 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course explore behavior that is influenced by the presence of others, or behavior that is under the control of society. Topics include culture and society, large and small group behavior, cross-cultural factors, and interpersonal relationships. Learners in this course review the social psychology of decision making, attitude formation, and social attribution and their application to contemporary issues |
| The Family in Social Context |
| Course Number |
HS8478 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine families from a systems perspective and explore the dynamics and systems influencing family structures. Learners also identify the skills needed to work with diverse family groups and the challenges faced by human service professionals. |
| Principles of Health Psychology |
| Course Number |
PSY8610 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
This course is a review
of behavioral and biomedical theory and
research with the objective of understanding
the contributions of psychological factors to
the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of
disease and illness. Topics include psychosocial
factors contributing to health and disease,
health promotion, mind-body relationships, and
psychological approaches to the prevention
and treatment of physical illness. Cognitive
and behavioral interventions for health-related
problems and the collaborative roles of medical
specialists and psychologists are emphasized. |
| Innovative Health Care Practices |
| Course Number |
PSY8650 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
This course is an examination
of the emerging trends in health practices.
Topics include integrating spiritual resources
into treatment, “alternative” therapies, current
issues in mind/body relationships, and the impact
of managed care in the delivery of psychological
services. Interdisciplinary practice and collaborative
relationships are emphasized. |
| Cognitive/Affective Basis of Physical Illness |
| Course Number |
PSY8670 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
This course
emphasizes the assessment and treatment of
psychosomatic conditions from a cognitive/
affective perspective. Learners explore the ways
assessment and treatment interventions from this
perspective are applied to patients with acute and
chronic conditions housed both in medical care
facilities and treated as out-patients. The use of
self-instruction strategies, relaxation techniques,
imagery, meditation, hypnosis, and other stress
management strategies are reviewed. |
| Managing Psychological Services |
| Course Number |
PSY8750 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
This course addresses the current challenges of managing psychological services and is designed to assist learners with the business components and professional standards of establishing a practice. Learners examine the theories, models, and practices used in the consultation process and explore practical psychological services issues, such as marketing a practice, developing proposals, and managing risk. Learners also evaluate various psychological processes and services that can be applied in organizational, educational, and clinical settings and the cultural and ethical issues associated with developing psychological services. |
Program description: The DSW General Social Work specialization, structured as a cohort, expands learners’ fundamental social work knowledge and skills and allows them the opportunity to define an interdisciplinary curriculum in which they choose courses from other specializations specific to their respective discipline and interest. Learners engage in online course work and face-to-face learning experiences during which they explore the radical changes in the ways people network, form relationships, communicate, and view themselves and capitalize on connecting with their clients by using new and evolving technologies. Successful graduates of this specialization are prepared to lead social service programs, effectively and ethically advocate for social justice for diverse populations of clients in a variety of settings, and share advanced knowledge with future social workers.
The DSW General Social Work specialization is structured using a cohort model. Beginning in their first quarter, learners enroll in their courses in a prescribed sequence, progressing through their program with the same group of learners. Earning the DSW as part of a cohort enhances opportunities to gain skills and knowledge and develop professional relationships with other learners.
Program Name:
MS - Social and Community Services
| Survey of Research in Human Development and Behavior |
| Course Number |
COUN5003 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This Course Presents Theories Of Human Development And Behavior Throughout The Lifecycle. Learners Examine Approaches For Researching Human Development, Including Personality And Moral Development Theory. Learners Also Focus On The Developing Person Using The Theoretical Lenses Of Disciplines Such As Psychology, Anthropology, And Biology. Must Be Taken By Master’s Learners In Their First Quarter. Learners May Only Earn Credit For Coun5003 Or Cst5003 Or Hs5002 Or Shb5003. Cannot Be Fulfilled By Transfer. |
| Survey of Research Methodology |
| Course Number |
COUN5006 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This Course Provides An Overview Of Graduate-level Approaches To Research Methodology. Learners Study Major Research Methodologies And Quantitative And Qualitative Approaches To Needs Assessment, Program Evaluation, And Program Design. Learners May Only Earn Credit For Coun5006 Or Cst5006 Or Hs5006 Or Shb5006. |
| Scope of Human Services |
| Course Number |
CST5318 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course presents learners with contemporary social problems addressed by human service professionals in the field. Learners examine theories of human service delivery, management, culture, and diversity to gain a broad understanding of the human services profession in diverse delivery settings. Learners also use the knowledge, skills, and methods acquired during the course to address a contemporary social problem. |
| Ethnic and Cultural Awareness |
| Course Number |
COUN5334 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This Course Is A Survey Of Theories, Research, And Concepts That Highlight The Importance Of Race, Culture, And Ethnicity In Individual And Group Experience. Learners Consider The Effects Of Gender, Social Class, Religion, And Disability On Experience And Evaluate The Role Of The Human Service And Educational Professional In Addressing The Multicultural Needs Of Clients And Colleagues In The Workforce. Learners Also Examine Cross-cultural Issues And Practice Applying A Variety Of Theoretical Approaches And Methodologies To Real-life Scenarios. Learners May Only Earn Credit For Coun5334 Or Cst5334 Or Hs5334 Or Shb5334. |
| History of Social Welfare |
| Course Number |
HS5401 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course is an advanced historical survey of social services, public policies, social welfare, and the profession of social work in the U.S. from the colonial era to the present. Learners in the course explore the historical social welfare experience of different groups, including women, Asian-Americans, African-Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics, citizens with disabilities, gays and lesbians, and others in the U.S. Some comparisons are made to other social welfare systems, particularly those of England, which greatly influenced early U.S. “poor laws.” |
| Social Change and Public Policy |
| Course Number |
HS5402 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course are introduced to social welfare policies and programs that are designed to improve the well-being and quality of people’s lives. Learners explore the process of development and implementation of programs targeted to poverty, mental illness, HIV/AIDS, children and families, the elderly, ethnic minorities, and other social problems and groups. Learners also begin to acquire skills in policy and program formation, change, and evaluation. Learners become familiar with ways that social welfare policies affect the direct practice of human service professionals and social workers, the professional role of affecting change at the public policy level, and policy at the agency level. |
| Philosophy of Social Work |
| Course Number |
HS5423 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course review the history, development, and intervention methods of contemporary social work within the framework of social work philosophy. Learners examine issues related to a wide range of families, communities, and systems by conducting analyses of social welfare systems with the objective of improving social conditions. |
| Integrative Project for Human Services Learners |
| Course Number |
HS5990 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, master’s learners demonstrate proficiency in their specialization area by applying learning from required and elective courses to complete an analysis of a human services organization or system, or propose a new application in their professional field. For MS in Human Services learners only. Prerequisite(s): All required and elective course work. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. |
Program description: The master’s Social and Community Services specialization is designed for entry-level professionals in the human services field who wish to advance their careers. Successful graduates of this specialization are prepared to assume leadership roles in social and community service agencies in both private and publicly funded agencies and organizations. This specialization is not designed to meet licensure requirements for the social work professions.
Program Name:
PhD - Social and Community Services
| Advanced Professional Scientific Ethics |
| Course Number |
HS8415 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course explores professional and scientific ethics in human services with an emphasis on social and community services. Doctoral learners analyze the role and function of ethics in decision making, social systems, policy, process, procedures, reality testing to ethical existential dilemmas, and communicative competence. This course prepares learners to better understand the ethical nature of professionalization. |
| Applied/Clinical Sociology |
| Course Number |
HS8447 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course emphasizes multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives of sociological theory and practice and provides learners with a solid grounding in applying sociological knowledge, theory, and research to strategic interventions. Learners explore different human services contexts and design interventions to improve the productivity and performance of public and private organizations. |
| Prevention and Causes of Child Abuse |
| Course Number |
HS8453 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course provides an overview of the etiology of and differences between child abuse and neglect and associated prevention efforts in the United States. Learners analyze various signs, symptoms, and forms of child abuse and neglect; explore the role of the human service practitioner in child abuse and neglect assessment, prevention, intervention, and reporting; and identify the ways professional ethics and cultural beliefs may conflict in handling cases of child abuse and neglect. Learners also evaluate the influence of research, literature, and media on the professional practice of working with abused and neglected children and their families. |
| Methods of Family Research |
| Course Number |
HS8476 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course explore the measurement of family variables and the complexities of family research design, data collection, and analysis. Topics include scales of measurement, validity and reliability, experimental and non-experimental designs, and approaches to integrating clinical research with practice. |
| Advanced Research in Adult Human Development and Behavior |
| Course Number |
HS8002 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course critically analyze theory and research in adult development and behavior with an emphasis on contemporary research and application issues. In addition, learners study adult development from biological, psychological, social, and multicultural perspectives and apply principles of adult development to professional practice. |
| Diversity in the Workplace |
| Course Number |
HS8300 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners analyze contemporary theories of diversity in the workplace. Learners compare and contrast inclusion theories, research and apply best practices for a diverse workplace, and integrate professional and ethical codes, standards, and laws in the human services work setting |
| Epistemology of Practice Knowledge |
| Course Number |
HS8106 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine theories that guide the acquisition of knowledge within human services professions. Learners critically analyze and evaluate the methods used to develop social science theory as a precursor to examining and applying the scientific method. Learners also study theory derivation, the link between research methods and theory, and the ways scholar-practitioners apply the scientific method. |
| Fundamentals of Social Science Research |
| Course Number |
HS8100 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course introduces learners to social science research, particularly in the context of human services. Learners focus on becoming educated consumers of research and examine major concepts and techniques of social science research, including problem formulation, identification of variables, literature review, research design, sampling, definition and measurement of study variables, instrument construction, and data collection and analysis. Learners also critically evaluate published research, apply research findings to professional practice, and practice designing research studies in their field of interest. |
| Quantitative Research Methods in the Human Services |
| Course Number |
HS8111 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine the research methods and designs human service professionals use to solve specific social problems. Topics include human subjects protection, measurement, development of instruments, data collection and management, and initial phases of data analysis. Learners also consider methodological adaptations when conducting research with vulnerable and diverse populations. |
| Advanced Qualitative Research Methods |
| Course Number |
HS8112 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In this course, learners evaluate qualitative research methods and designs. Learners focus on developing the skills used to synthesize information related to qualitative research methodology and examine ethical issues associated with the qualitative research process |
| Advanced Study in Research Methods |
| Course Number |
HS8113 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course analyze the relevance and appropriateness of specific research methodologies in preparation for using them in the dissertation. The course emphasizes conceptualizing, planning, and designing a doctoral research proposal and includes topics such as planning and sampling; measurement; statistical and qualitative analytic models; results planning, analysis, and interpretation; and ethical considerations |
| Principles and Practices of Social Work |
| Course Number |
HS8103 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course is an overview of principles, methods, and practice models for intervention and social change through work with groups and communities. Learners examine theoretical perspectives of group and community organizing as well as advocacy models, grassroots participation, and the empowerment of disadvantaged groups. Learners also explore theories and methods of present-day social work practices with individuals, families, and organizations. |
| Social Influences of Behavior |
| Course Number |
HS8413 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course explore behavior that is influenced by the presence of others, or behavior that is under the control of society. Topics include culture and society, large and small group behavior, cross-cultural factors, and interpersonal relationships. Learners in this course review the social psychology of decision making, attitude formation, and social attribution and their application to contemporary issues |
| The Family in Social Context |
| Course Number |
HS8478 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course examine families from a systems perspective and explore the dynamics and systems influencing family structures. Learners also identify the skills needed to work with diverse family groups and the challenges faced by human service professionals. |
| Grief and Bereavement Counseling |
| Course Number |
CST8745 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
Learners in this course investigate research on death and dying. Topics include the psychological stages of bereavement, the symptomatology of grief, death trajectory, hospice model of treatment, and techniques for coping with losses of all types, including death in the family. Learners explore case consultations with dying children and their parents that use drawing therapy and storytelling as a means to elicit psychological material. Learners may earn credit for either CST8745 or HS8745, but not both. |
| Contemporary Issues in Compulsive and Addictive Behavior Treatment |
| Course Number |
CST8764 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
In This Course, Learners Review Current Research And Trends Within The Compulsive And Addictive Behavior Treatment Field. Topics Include Developments In The Psychopharmacologic Treatment Of Compulsive And Addictive Behaviors; The Influences Of Ethics, Culture, And Managed Care On Treatment; The Use Of Internet Resources In The Field; And The Changing Role Of The Counselor. Learners May Only Earn Credit For Ces8764 Or Cst8764 Or Hs8764. |
| Doctoral Comprehensive Examination |
| Course Number |
ED9919 |
| Credits |
4.0 |
This course includes an overview of the comprehensive examination process, the university’s expectations of academic honesty and integrity, the three core themes of the examination, and the evaluation criteria. The courseroom mentor provides three questions addressing the core themes. Learners write answers to the comprehensive examination questions. Answers are evaluated by faculty readers using point-scale scoring rubrics. Upon passing the comprehensive examination, learners are eligible to enroll in the first dissertation course. |
| Dissertation Courseroom |
| Course Number |
EDD9920 |
| Credits |
0.0 |
This course provides learners with resources, guidance, and peer and mentor support during each dissertation course as they complete the required milestones. |
| Dissertation Research 1 |
| Course Number |
ED9921 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners complete the required dissertation milestones and prepare their dissertation for publication. |
| Dissertation Research 2 |
| Course Number |
ED9922 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners complete the required dissertation milestones and prepare their dissertation for publication. |
| Dissertation Research 3 |
| Course Number |
ED9923 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners complete the required dissertation milestones and prepare their dissertation for publication. |
| Dissertation Research 4 |
| Course Number |
ED9924 |
| Credits |
5.0 |
Learners complete the required dissertation milestones and prepare their dissertation for publication. |
Program description: The doctoral Social and Community Services specialization is designed for individuals who have a master’s degree in sociology, social work, or a related field. Learners may be licensed clinical social workers or licensed professional counselors who wish to teach, pursue advanced research, administer programs, or supervise clinicians. This specialization provides advanced study of contemporary issues impacting social work and community services as well as preparation to assume leadership roles as social change agents at community, state, and national levels. Successful graduates of this specialization are prepared to teach, engage in research, and provide consultation services within the field. This specialization is not designed to meet licensure requirements for the social work professions