Introduction To Social Policy And Programs

Catalog description

This course traces the history of social welfare and within it the evolving role of social work. An analytic approach is used to highlight the social, economic, political, and philosophical forces that affect problem formulation and which lead to, or inhibit, changes in social policies and programs. An overview of current patterns of provision is given with an analytic framework which enables critical evaluation of social welfare provisions. Special attention is given to the values and perspectives of the society, groups-at-risk, the social work profession, and students. Course Learning Outcomes 1. Describe and analyze the historical foundations of the contemporary US welfare state, social welfare policies and the social work profession. 2. Describe the concept of “social problems” and analyze the changing definitions of social problems. 3. Describe and critically analyze social welfare policies, from an evidence based and value based perspective. Apply a social, economic and environmental justice and human rights framework to the analysis of social welfare policies and programs. 4. Describe and analyze the role of various levels of government, the market, and the voluntary sector in social welfare provision. 5. Describe and analyze the development and functioning of the main sectors of social welfare, such as health, income maintenance, housing, employment and training, and social services. 6. Analyze the impact of social welfare policies on varying and intersectional forms of social inequalities, including those related to race, class, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability status, immigration status and other social categories. 7. Describe and analyze historical and contemporary advocacy efforts, social movements, social work and policy strategies that helped to eliminate structural barriers, promote social justice and ensure the more equitable distribution of social good and rights. View Class Schedule