These requirements are from an excerpt from the University Academic Catalog, which outlines the requirements for a student to earn the distinction of being a Castleton University graduate. The complete catalog is available online.
Mission StatementConsistent with the mission of the University and EPAS (2015) requirements for the Council on Social Work Education, the Baccalaureate Social Work Program's mission is to prepare students to be competent and effective professionals for entry-level professional generalist practice. As one of two BSW programs in a small state and as part of the Vermont State College system, the Program will prepare many of Vermont's BSW level practitioners.
Students will acquire social work knowledge based on a body of knowledge, values and skills of the profession. They will be prepared and encouraged to provide leadership in the development of service delivery systems that promote human rights, and social and economic justice. Students will reflect the profession's core values of service, social justice, the dignity and worth of the person, the importance of human relationships, integrity, competence, human rights, and scientific inquiry.
Castleton's Social Work program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
OverviewThe social work program offers a Baccalaureate of Social Work degree (BSW.SWK). The primary mission of the Castleton University Social Work program is to graduate individuals with a commitment to social change and social justice for vulnerable populations in society. The program's mission includes providing access for Vermont students to a professional education and the preparation of competent professionals to staff social service delivery systems in the State of Vermont. The program goals and student learning outcomes are consistent with the accreditation requirements of the Council on Social Work Education. The program complements and integrates the liberal arts and sciences with a professional course of study. The Castleton University Social Work program is designed to provide knowledge, skills and ethics for beginning-level generalist professional practice and the academic preparation for graduate study in social work. Generalist social work practice consists of a common core of knowledge, values, and skills that can be applied across diverse client systems to enhance the social functioning of those systems.
Castleton's BSW graduates are employed in a wide range and variety of agencies and organizations which serve the needs of many different people some of which are: nursing homes, hospices, hospitals, home care agencies, substance abuse programs, mental health services, mental retardation/developmental disabilities services, vocational rehabilitation services, public health agencies, community action agencies, family service agencies, children 38 youth services, family service agencies, aging services, residential treatment programs, child and adult day care centers, domestic violence programs, homeless shelters, criminal justice agencies, schools (elementary and secondary), income maintenance programs, and legal services agencies. The BSW degree also prepares the student for entry into graduate programs. Many Castleton Social Work graduates are granted advanced standing in Master of Social Work programs. Thus, the time to complete the Master of Social Work is shortened by several months.
Competencies and Practice BehaviorsAs a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education, the Castleton University program goals and objectives are consistent with the Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards of that organization.
Competency 1: Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
Competency 2: Engage Diversity and Difference in Practice
Competency 3: Advance Human Rights and Social, Economic, and Environmental Justice
Competency 4: Engage In Practice-informed Research and Research-informed Practice
Competency 5: Engage in Policy Practice
Competency 6: Engage with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Competency 7: Assess Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Competency 8: Intervene with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Competency 9: Evaluate Practice with Individuals, Families, Groups, Organizations, and Communities
Continuation is determined by continuing progress toward a professional level of performance. In addition to a mastery of knowledge the student must demonstrate the acquisition of professional attitudes, values, and skills and commitment to the Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. Only those students whose academic accomplishments and personal attitudes, skills and values indicate reasonable promise in social work, as can be determined in the university setting, will be recommended for field placements. A minimum grade of "C" in SWK 3010 - Social Work Practice I, SWK 4020 - Social Work Practice II, and SWK 4811 - Field Experience I must be maintained for continuation in the program.
Admission to Field InstructionNot every student will necessarily be appropriate for the practice of social work.
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
MAT 2021 |
Statistics IThis course prepares students for quantitative methods in their respective fields. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including estimation, hypothesis testing, linear regression and correlation are covered. Basic tools of descriptive statistics, discrete probability, binomial distribution, normal distribution, t-distribution, estimates and sample sizes, hypothesis testing, elementary correlation and regression, contingency tables are explored. Students utilize graphing calculators and spreadsheet software on a regular basis. This course fulfills a Mathematics general education requirement. Every semester |
3 |
PSY 1012 |
Introduction to Psychological ScienceA survey of a wide variety of topics studied by psychological scientists. The course objective is to introduce students to the terms, concepts and methods of psychological science. Restrictions This course is equivalent to Introduction to Psychology; students will not receive credit for both courses. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Every semester |
3 |
SOC 1010 |
Introduction to SociologyA systematic introduction to the study of social behavior and social organization. The major conceptual tools of sociology are used to explore the structure, processes, and content of social action; to provide insight into the regularity and diversity of human social behavior. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Every semester |
3 |
BIO 1010 |
Human Biology and LaboratoryAND EITHER: A one-semester course intended for non-science majors that provides an overview of human biology. All major organ systems will be covered, with an emphasis on their interactions, their importance in maintaining health, and the effects of disease and injury. May not be taken for biology credit by BS.BIO majors. Lecture and lab This course fulfills a Natural Science general education requirement. Fee Lab fee $50. |
4 |
BIO 2011 |
Human Anatomy and Physiology IOR BOTH: An investigation of the structure and function of the human body in health and disease. Topics include: the cell, cellular metabolism, tissues, integument, skeletal system, articulations, and muscular and nervous systems. Lecture and lab. This course fulfills a Natural Science general education requirement. Prerequisite: Biology, Exercise Science, Health Promotion, Health Science, Kinesiology, Nursing, Physical Education, Psychological Science or Social Work major only or permission of instructor. Previous experience in biology and chemistry (high school or college) is highly recommended. Fee Lab fee $50 Fall |
4 |
BIO 2012 |
Human Anatomy and Physiology IIA continuation of BIO 2011. Topics include the endocrine, digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, lymphatic, urinary and reproductive systems. Lecture and lab. This course fulfills a Natural Science general education requirement. Prerequisite: BIO 2011 or consent of instructor. Fee Lab fee $50. Spring |
4 |
(or equivalents as determined by the program coordinator)
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
SOC 2130 |
The Community in American SocietyOR SSC 1010 - Introduction to the Study of Community 3 cr Examination of the structure and functions of the community within the framework of the rural-urban continuum. Critical analysis of representative institutions, formal and informal associations, and the impact of change on community organizations. Periodically |
3 |
SOC 3910 |
Research MethodsIntroduction to the basic methods of sociological research design, data collection, the organization and analysis of data, and their interpretation through an actual research project. This course fulfills the Digital and Computing Literacy general education requirement. Prerequisite: Junior majors in SOC, CRJ or acceptance in Social Work program, or consent of instructor. Fall and Spring |
4 |
SOC 4020 |
Sociological TheoryCritical analysis of the development of sociological thought from Comte to the present, with particular emphasis on the theoretical contributions which have been instrumental in the emergence of sociology as and academic discipline. Prerequisite: SOC 1010 or consent of instructor. Fall and Spring |
3 |
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
SWK 1010 |
Introduction to Human ServicesAn overview of the organization, values, theories and variety of activities of various human service professions, with specific emphasis on Social Work. Designed to acquaint students with the range of human services and to test interest in a helping career. Social work majors must get a C or better to continue on with social work required courses. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Fall and spring |
3 |
SWK 1810 |
Early FieldPre-professional helping experience in local Social Service Program. NOTE: Students with prior human services experience may be exempted from this requirement. See Instructor. Prerequisite: SWK 1010, or taken concurrently with SWK 1010. Every Semester |
1 |
SWK 2011 |
Human Behavior In The Social Environment IAn examination of the life cycle from a perspective of systems analysis. Studies conception to adolescence focusing on the interrelationships among physiological, psychological, social and cultural systems. Specific emphasis is on the social institutions that affect movement of the individual through the life cycle. Prerequisite: SOC 1010, PSY 1012. BIO 1010 or BIO 2011 prerequisite or concurrent, or permission of the instructor. Fall |
3 |
SWK 2012 |
Human Behavior In The Social Environment IIA continuation of SWK 2011 covering the stages of the life cycle from adolescence through death. In addition, an understanding of the behavioral dynamics of large systems is developed and applied to practical situations. Prerequisite: SWK 2011 or consent of instructor. Spring |
3 |
SWK 2040 |
Discrimination in American SocietyAn understanding of the dynamics and American history of prejudice and discrimination in relation to racial and ethnic minorities, women and the aged is developed. Special emphasis placed on issues relevant to Social Welfare. Prerequisite: SOC 1010 or consent of instructor. Spring |
3 |
SWK 2140 |
Substance Abuse and Addiction StudiesThis course is an exploration of the biopsychosocial issues surrounding substance use, abuse, and addiction, including behavioral addictions such as gambling, gaming, rage, etc. Students will explore current pharmacological, behavioral, and social treatment options for behavioral addiction and substance use disorders. Costs of addiction will be assessed, including economic, legal, individual, family, and health care. Students will review screening tools currently being used in the field to better understand the signs and symptoms of addiction, including the DSM-V diagnostic criteria. Addiction recovery policies, laws, and ethics will be analyzed, with a focus on prevention, treatment, and community supports for youth, families, and adults. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Fall |
3 |
SWK 3010 |
Social Work Practice IThe process of social work intervention, including professional values and roles and the development of practice skills. Required of students in the Social Work Program. Prerequisite: SWK 1810 and SWK 2011, or consent of instructor Spring |
3 |
SWK 3020 |
History And Philosophy Of Social WorkProvides a theoretical model of professionalization for analyzing social work’s historical development. Examines how social work moved from its original altruism to become identified with case work rather than social reform. A critical review of issues central to social policy and social services. Prerequisite: SOC 1010, SWK 1010, SWK 2011; taken concurrently with SWK 3010 except with consent of instructor. Spring |
3 |
SWK 4010 |
Social Welfare Policies, Programs and IssuesA critical theoretical approach to social policy development and analysis. Examination of the adequacy of current social welfare programs and services. Emphasis will be placed on value choices, politics, and praxis in the development and implementation of social welfare policy as a response to social problems in American society. Prerequisite: SWK 2040, SWK 3020. Fall |
3 |
SWK 4020 |
Social Work Practice IIAn in-depth study of the beginning and middle phases of the helping process with focus on engagement, assessment, interviewing, and communication skills in work with micro, mezzo, and macro client systems. Theoretical concepts are applied to practice situations and methods for evaluation of practice are explored. Prerequisite: "C" or better in SWK 3010 and SWK 3020. Fall |
3 |
SWK 4030 |
Social Work Practice IIIApplication of professional ethics, knowledge, methods, strategies, and skills in practice with client systems of differing size, complexity, and problem manifestation. Emphasis is placed upon the termination of intervention, student self evaluation, and the demands of different practice settings. Prerequisite: “C” or better in SWK 4020 and SWK 4811. Taken concurrently with SWK 4812. Spring |
3 |
SWK 4720 |
Social Work Capstone SeminarThis is the final culminating course in the Social Work education experience which integrates material from the whole of the social work curriculum as students prepare to enter practice or graduate school. Prerequisite: SWK 4020 and SWK 4811. Must be taken concurrently with SWK 4030 and SWK 4812. Spring |
3 |
SWK 4811 |
Field Experience IField instruction in area social agencies offering opportunities to acquire skill in social work practice. Course requires two full days per week in the field. Social Work agreement must be signed prior to taking this course, see Social Work Program Handbook for eligibility. Prerequisite: "C" or better in SWK 3010 Fall |
6 |
SWK 4812 |
Field Experience IIA continuation of SWK 4811. Prerequisite: "C" or better in SWK 4020 and SWK 4811. Spring |
6 |
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
ANT 1010 |
Introduction to Cultural AnthropologyAn analysis of the origin and bases of culture. Its major components: cultural variation, cultural evolution, and cultural adaptation. Analysis of selected cultures as case studies. This course fulfills a Humanistic Perspective general education requirement. Every semester |
3 |
CRJ 1010 |
Introduction to Criminal JusticeAn overview of the American criminal justice system, tracing its history and development and assessing its strengths and weaknesses. Roles of the agencies that comprise the criminal justice system (representing law enforcement, courts, and corrections) are examined. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Every semester |
3 |
CRJ 3160 |
Juvenile JusticeAn examination of the procedures used in dealing with juveniles who come into conflict with the law. Course includes critical appraisal of the history and role of the juvenile courts and assessment of correctional strategies currently in use to treat juvenile offenders. Prerequisite: CRJ 1010, junior standing, or consent of instructor. Spring |
3 |
ECO 1010 |
Economics and SocietyAn introductory course focused upon the evolution of western market systems. We start with the nature of the local economy in the middle ages. From those origins in feudal society sprang mercantilism and ultimately capitalism. What facets of early trading systems survive; what were jettisoned? How has the evolved system acted upon the wider socio-political realm and in turn been shaped by the political choices history throws up? This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Fall |
3 |
PSY 2040 |
Social PsychologyScientific study of interpersonal behavior. Topics typically discussed are attitude change and social influence, aggression and violence, impression formation, group processes, conformity and attraction. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Periodically |
3 |
SOC 1030 |
Social ProblemsAn examination of such problems as population, pollution, poverty, crime, and racism as they exist in contemporary American society. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Periodically |
3 |
Social work students can choose to focus their electives and senior field placement in practice areas to earn certificates that can be used when seeking employment. The certificates are Criminal Justice settings, Educational settings, Medical settings, and Substance Abuse Treatment settings. Students take 3 courses in the practice area as well as a related field placement. These certificates are only for SWK majors as an addition to their BSW.
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
CRJ 1010 |
Introduction to Criminal JusticeTake these 2 courses: An overview of the American criminal justice system, tracing its history and development and assessing its strengths and weaknesses. Roles of the agencies that comprise the criminal justice system (representing law enforcement, courts, and corrections) are examined. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Every semester |
3 |
SWK 2020 |
Family ViolenceAnalyzes the psychosocial dynamics of families disrupted by domestic violence. Aspects of child abuse, spouse abuse and elder abuse will be covered. Differential social work assessment and intervention will be emphasized. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Every Semester |
3 |
CRJ 2080 |
Correctional Philosophies and PracticesAnd take 1 of the following: An interdisciplinary study of the historical and contemporary philosophies and practices of sentencing, punishment, and rehabilitation in American corrections. The course will be a comprehensive examination of all facets of institutional and community-based corrections, including facilities, probation, intermediate sanctions, and parole, as well as special and controversial issues in the field. Field study will be an essential component of this course and may include field trips, interviews and other research, guest speakers, and/or community service. Prerequisite: CRJ 1010 passed with a grade of “C” or better. Every semester |
3 |
CRJ 3010 |
Crime VictimsAn interdisciplinary study of criminal victimization and prevention. The course examines patterns of crime, offending, and victimization and how to use such information to prevent violent and property crime, including rape, domestic violence, and hate crime. Other issues to be explored include victimization theories, prevention programs, treatment of victims, and victims' rights and remedies. Prerequisite: CRJ 1010, SOC 1010, and Junior standing or consent of instructor. Spring |
3 |
PSY 3160 |
Criminal BehaviorAn examination of the physiological, cognitive and learning factors involved in criminal behavior from a psychological perspective. Prerequisite: Any psychology course or instructor permission Periodically |
3 |
SOC 3210 |
CriminologyAnd complete your Field Experience (SWK 4811 & 4812) at a CRJ placement. An interdisciplinary study of the causes of crime and criminal behavior, with particular emphasis on sociological perspectives. Classical through contemporary criminological theories will be examined, as well as patterns and varieties of crime. Prerequisite: SOC 1010 or consent of instructor. Spring, even years |
3 |
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
EDU 1012 |
Education InquiriesTake these 2 courses: This course critically analyzes our societies' educational institutions. Students explore the historical, social, and philosophical foundations of education. The course will cultivate an understanding of the teaching profession today by exploring provocative contemporary issues. Students will explore political, economic, legal, international, and cultural perspectives on education, including issues of adequacy, discrimination, access, and equity. Field observations will be central to Educational Inquiries. Groups of students will periodically observe highly regarded local classes, then engage in seminars designed to understand the classroom culture, instruction, curriculum, and assessments that they observe. Model faculty observed will be asked to share a brief overview of their lesson, which will be the basis for reflection on classroom practices. Every semester |
3 |
SWK 3040 |
School Social WorkThis course addresses and explores the role and practices of the social worker in elementary, middle, and high school settings. The course is designed to provide a broad overview for social workers considering pursuing a career in an educational setting, for those considering a professional role where they will collaborate with school social workers, and for those who may interact with school social workers in their professional and/or personal capacities. It will engage students in addressing the needs of regular education and special education students, interpreting and conducting research towards better interventions, writing typical school social work reports and filling out typical forms, leading group lessons and faculty professional development, working with school administrators, and working with parents/guardians. It will cover the topic areas required by the Vermont Agency of Education towards certification as a school social worker. Prerequisite: SWK 1010 and SWK 2011 Spring |
3 |
EDU 2140 |
Cognitive Differences and Emotional ChallengesAnd take 1 of the following: This course focuses on students with Low Incidence Disabilities grades K through 21 years who have severe and multiple disabilities, autism, moderate-severe learning impairments, sensory disabilities, and severe emotional and behavioral disabilities. Pre-service special educators will be learning about the characteristics of these students and the strategies to teach them academic and social skills within the regular classroom, in resource rooms, and in substantially separate classrooms. Emphasis is placed on interventions and assessment for functional academics, blended with life-skills and adaptive technology for students in K through 21 years of age. The field component of this course is 15 hours based on licensing area. Prerequisite: EDU 1012 Fall |
3 |
EDU 3130 |
Learning Differences and Attention DifficultiesAnd complete your Field Experience (SWK 4811 & 4812) at a school placement. This course focuses on students with High Incidence Disabilities K through age 21 who have learning disabilities, attention deficit hyperactive disorders, and mild/moderate emotional and behavior disorders. Pre-service special educators will learn about the characteristics of these students and the strategies used to teach them collaboratively within the regular classroom and in resource rooms for academic and social success. Emphasis will be placed on diagnosing and remediating literacy difficulties across academic areas, and utilizing assistive technology to accommodate for these challenges in grades K through 21 years of age. The field component of this course is 15 hours based on licensing area. Prerequisite: EDU 1012 Spring |
3 |
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
NUR 1040 |
Care, Caring, and CaregivingTake this course: The need for care is said to be universal, something that we all want and need, but is not necessarily well understood by those who choose to engage in a caregiving relationship. This course will explore the phenomena of care, caring, and caregiving through multiple lenses - historical, philosophical, ethical, and cultural - as the basis for personal and professional development as a caregiver and recipient of care. Using various texts and forms of media the story of care, caring, and caregiving will be explored from an insider and outsider perspective. Through narrative methods of teaching and learning, students will be actively engaged in critical reflection on the meaning of care, caring relationships, and caregiving. Restrictions Nursing majors or permission of instructor Every semester |
3 |
NUR 3220 |
Worldviews and Global HealthAnd take 2 of the following: The just and equitable distribution of risk and the tools used to lessen or ameliorate such risk and its subsequent human suffering are too often unaddressed or inadequately addressed, particularly when viewed through a narrow disciplinary lens. Students will conduct a systematic and comparative analysis of health, health disparities and health systems across the globe and the human-social-ecological conditions that give rise to health and health disparities. As well, using a biosocial approach, a select number of historical and contemporary global health concerns and the information, tools, and methods used to address such concerns will be critically examined. This course will be offered in a 7.5 week intensive, on-line format. This course fulfills a Humanistic Perspective general education requirement. Fall |
3 |
NUR 4220 |
Healthy AgingThis course explores the field of gerontology and the unique health needs of adults as they age. Student-learners explore pervasive stereotypes, myths, and biases about aging across time and culture with an emphasis on aging in a youth-centered culture. As well, students will engage in a critical comparison between perceptions of aging and reality from an informed bio-psycho-social perspective. Select demographic, social, cultural, ethical, financial, and environmental issues are addressed. Levels of prevention including end-of-life decision making and end-of-life care, as they pertain to the geriatric population, are explored. This course will be offered in a 7.5-week intensive format. Restrictions BS.NUR.RN students or permission Prerequisite: NUR 2012 or NUR 2220 Spring |
3 |
SWK 2030 |
Human SexualityAn explanation of contemporary issues, theories and practices from an interdisciplinary perspective. Students will analyze videos and a range of written content with respect to sexual messages and behavior. Aspects of sexual obstacles and conflicts with appropriate modes of intervention will also be highlighted. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Fall |
3 |
SOC 2230 |
Death And DyingAnd complete your Field Experience (SWK 4811 & 4812) at a medical placement. An examination of death and dying from the cross-cultural, social, historical, familial and personal perspectives. An emphasis is given to the cultural beliefs and behaviors and the social approaches of understanding and coping with death and dying. Periodically |
3 |
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
SWK 2140 |
Substance Abuse and Addiction StudiesTake these 2 courses: This course is an exploration of the biopsychosocial issues surrounding substance use, abuse, and addiction, including behavioral addictions such as gambling, gaming, rage, etc. Students will explore current pharmacological, behavioral, and social treatment options for behavioral addiction and substance use disorders. Costs of addiction will be assessed, including economic, legal, individual, family, and health care. Students will review screening tools currently being used in the field to better understand the signs and symptoms of addiction, including the DSM-V diagnostic criteria. Addiction recovery policies, laws, and ethics will be analyzed, with a focus on prevention, treatment, and community supports for youth, families, and adults. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Fall |
3 |
SWK 3140 |
Advanced Substance Abuse and Addictions StudiesAdvanced Substance Abuse and Addictions Studies. This course will build on SWK 2140 Substance Abuse and Addictions Studies. It will further explore the fundamental science and understanding of substance use, abuse, and addiction, including the psychology, biology, neuroscience, and social aspects of substance use with a primary focus on prevention and treatment. Topics will cover the 14 academic areas required by the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation and statute toward CADC and LADC professional licensure. Prerequisite: SWK 2140 or equivalent Spring |
3 |
PSY 2170 |
Drugs and BehaviorAnd 1 of the following: An inquiry into the natural functioning of the brain's neurotransmitters and the impact of psychoactive drugs on mood, behavior, cognition, and perception. The major classes of recreational drugs such as stimulants, depressants, opiates, and psychedelics will be explored along with the major classes of medicinal drugs such as anti-psychotics, anti-depressants, and anxiolytics. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Fall |
3 |
SOC 2560 |
Cannabis, Culture, and ConsciousnessAnd complete your Field Experience (SWK 4811 & 4812) at a substance abuse placement. This interdisciplinary course combines historical, sociological, cross-cultural, and philosophical perspectives on cannabis and its role and meaning in human cultures, societies, and individuals. The course will also explore the political, legal, civil, and criminal justice dimensions of cannabis. Applying historical, anthropological, sociological, and philosophical analyses of cannabis in multiple societies and across different cultural and historical settings will provide students with a broad, deep, and rich understanding of this important and often misunderstood and controversial plant. Federal financial aid cannot be used to cover the cost of any cannabis course. This course fulfills a Humanistic Perspective general education requirement. Every term |
3 |