SSC 111 3 credits
The Individual in Society
Introduction to concepts and methodology of social sciences and presentation of
sample content for the systems of humanity: sociology, anthropology, history,
political science, economics and international relations.
SSC 201 3 credits
Introduction to Cultural Anthropology
Study of learned behavior in human societies. Topics include cultures, interrelationships
among peoples, and aspects of culture and environment. Course fulfills the human
diversity graduation requirement.
SSC 222 3 credits
Introduction to Geography
Examination of the components of the geographic equation: environment, culture,
technology and spatial interaction.
SSC 310 3 credits
Cultural Geography I
Examines major realms of the developed world: Western/Eastern Europe, the
Soviet Union, Australia/New Zealand and Japan. Special combinations of cultural,
physical, historical and organizational qualities of these realms are discussed
in a geographical perspective. Emphasis is given to the study of these characteristic
properties and how they imprint on the landscape, giving each region its own
flavor and social environment. Course fulfills the human diversity graduation
requirement.
SSC 311 2 credits
Cultural Geography II
Examines the major realms of the underdeveloped Third World: Central America,
South America, North Africa, Southwest Asia, and Africa. The special combinations
of cultural, physical, historical and organizational qualities of these realms
are discussed from a geographical perspective. Course fulfills the human diversity
graduation requirement.
SSC 321 3 credits
Global Society
Analysis of major issues facing mankind in the 21st century: security systems
and disarmament, world economic order, development, resource/population balance,
and human rights. Course fulfills the human diversity graduation requirement.
SSC 425 3 credits
Seminar
Intensive study in research methodology followed by a major research paper
on a topic approved by the department chairperson.
Designed for the student preparing to teach Social Studies at secondary level. For professional education requirements for this major see Education pages in this section.
Prerequisite: SSC 111.
Introductory Courses: 27 credits
HIS 112, 121; POS 101, 111; PSY101; SOC 111; SSC 201, 222; HIS 240.
Upper-Level Studies: 27 credits
HIS 307, 319 or 323; HIS 300, 308, 322; HIS 337, 349, 353 or 465; HIS 344, 352,
364 or 472; POS 325; PSY 301; SSC 425; BUS 345, 346.
Goals for student learning are conceptualized from the primary departmental goal, which is to prepare students for entry-level professional competence as generalist social work practitioners.
The Social Work Department is accredited by: The Council on Social Work Education, 1725 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314-3457; phone number 703-683-8080.
Social Work program graduates are awarded a BSW (Bachelor Degree of Social Work). No life experience or work experience credits are accepted for this program.
The program provides educational courses and experiences designed to help the student explore the nature of the individual within society. Through a critical awareness of individual and social values, the student will be exposed to a body of knowledge, which will examine human behavior and development and gain the skills necessary to work effectively work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, communities and the larger society. Issues concerning ethnicity, culture, gender and populations-at-risk are incorporated throughout the program. Students will examine the contributions and needs of these special populations. The curriculum focuses on the various institutions, which are designed to provide social services. In addition, the Social Work program motivates and prepares students for continued professional development and education.
Alvernia Social Work Program goals are:
· Help students integrate liberal arts and professional knowledge, values
and skills into competent entry-level practice;
· Prepare students to understand social policy and policy analysis, and to participate in efforts directed toward policy change;
· Help students become aware of issues related to human diversity and be of assistance in pursuing equity in professional and institutional relations;
· Motivate and prepare students for continuing professional development and education.
Generalist social work practice is a holistic approach that provides the practitioner with the knowledge, values and skills necessary to engage in a planned change process on a micro, mezzo and macro level. Building on the strengths perspective, this approach incorporates social systems and ecological models as a foundation for the planned change process.
Generalist social work incorporates knowledge that is transferable, empowers individuals, utilizes a variety of intervention strategies, analyzes development across the life span, evaluates the impact of social policies and serves populations-at-risk. Populations-at-risk includes: people of color, women, children, older adults, the physically/mentally challenged, people of different sexual orientation, ethnicity, national origin, or religious beliefs, and the economically disadvantaged.
Generalist social work practice incorporates values that reflect the social worker's professional code of ethics (NASW Code of Ethics), which demands social responsibility and respect for diverse value systems, as well as a commitment to continued professional development. Generalist social work practice also incorporates skills that provide for assessing client's needs, establishing goals and objectives, and implementation and evaluation of the planned change process.
Generalist social work practice links people with systems and focuses on equality for those people who are oppressed and discriminated against, taking into consideration institutional polices and procedures that hinder self-determination and growth.
The major sequence in Social Work Practice in the last two years assists students through a planned change process in working with individuals, families, groups and communities served by both public and private agencies. Field Practicum constitutes an integral component of the total curriculum, and helps students integrate classroom learning with practice in the social service setting.
Social Work applicants must complete an application for entrance into the department, plus have an interview with departmental faculty before being informed of acceptance. A student must complete 45 credits before making formal application to the program. See departmental Student Handbook for additional information.
Major: 68 credits
Social Work: 55 credits
SW 201, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 311, 312, 401, 402, 403, 404,
405, 407, 408.
Plus nine elective credits selected from: SW 202, 203, 206, 207, 208, 209, 231,
314, 347.
Related Areas: 13 credits
BIO 109; MAT 208 or 209; three credits in Psychology; three credits in Sociology.
GERONTOLOGY PROGRAMS
Two programs, a gerontology minor and certificate of completion, are offered in gerontology to help students meet the rapidly expanding job market in the field of geriatrics.
A minor in gerontology offers one-to-one involvement with older adults, class experience in a variety of geriatric settings, and the theory necessary to work effectively with this population.
Minor: 19 credits
Required: SW 201, 203, 207, 209, 307, 308, 314.
Certificate of Completion: 12 credits
The certificate of completion program is designed for individuals who have never
attended college or who have a degree and want to complete this specialization.
Required Courses: SW 203, 207, 314.
Departmental Requirement:
Students who achieve junior status must maintain an overall GPA of 2.25 to remain
in good academic standing within the Social Work Department. Students may repeat/delete
a Social Work course (only once) in order to achieve a "C" in that
specific course.
MARYWOOD UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP
Alvernia College offers Marywood University's Master of Social Work on our campus.
Students have an opportunity to complete this degree largely on Alvernia's campus.
See the program director for the Marywood Program for further details.
SW 201 3 credits
Introduction to Social Work
Introduction to society's response to social need through a generalist approach
to family services, child welfare, physical and mental health services, school
related services, corrections, gerontology and populations-at-risk. Social Worker's
response to meeting the needs of various multiethnic and multi-needs groups is
emphasized. Integration of micro, mezzo and macro practice is included.
SW 202 3 credits
Social Services to Children
This course takes into consideration the historical perspective, socioeconomic
factors and the multicultural variables that affect child welfare in the United
States. Social services available to children are conceptualized and include
supportive, supplementary and substitute services. Family services, homemaker
service, foster care, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), protective
services, day care, adoption and institutional care are services evaluated and
discussed.
SW 203 3 credits
The Process of Aging
Explores the various theories of aging along with biological and psychosocial
aging. Other issues include gender and ethnicity, personality and intellectual
development, mental health and physical disease. A review of the process will
include the lifeline from birth to death. The dimensions of the whole person
will also be addressed by exploring the physical, emotional, intellectual and
spiritual growth necessary to achieve human potential in later life.
SW 207 3 credits
Intervention Strategies for Older Adults
Students are taught generalist skills to work with older adults at micro
and mezzo levels. Students will learn how to assess the needs of older adults
and how to create services to meet those needs. Twelve different modalities
will be introduced. Students will observe and participate in on-site agency
intervention techniques. Students will be directly involved with micro and mezzo
practice, and participate in development of a community service program to benefit
older adults.
SW 208 3 credits
Social Work and the Law
Study of the relationship between the United States legal system and the
practice of social work. Attention will be given to current legislation and
ethical considerations that impact on delivery of social services.
SW 209 3 credits
Death and Dying
Examines the process of living with death and dying. The human dilemma is
such that we move from birth to death. Case studies, media presentations, etc.
will focus on feelings and emotions of both the individual and the family as
they cope with the last stage of the life cycle.
SW 231 3 credits
Culturally Sensitive Human Service Practice
Comparative exploration of ethnic, gender and subcultural norms of both
clients and workers in various human service fields. Students will examine the
facts which eradicate biases of racism, ageism, sexism, sexual preference and
groups mistreated by society. Students will define their own strengths and biases
in preparation for culturally diverse practice. Course fulfills the human diversity
graduation requirement.
SW 301 3 credits
Social Welfare
Social Welfare system in the United States, including impact of poverty
and contributions of various minority populations is examined. Topics will include
the various facets of American social welfare systems, including political,
economic and social structures. An understanding of poverty in the United States
will be achieved, as well as the strategies to empower those affected by poverty.
Prerequisite: SW 201.
SW 302 3 credits
Social Policy
Process of policy formation including various components of American social
welfare policy such as political and economic influences are analyzed. Emphasis
will be placed on the social worker's understanding of the process of effective
policy formation and his/her role in developing and implementing functional
programs consistent with the mission of the social work profession to improve
quality of life for all. Prerequisite: SW 301.
SW 303 3 credits
Human Behavior/Social Environment I
Focuses on integration of the individual's biological, psychological, social
and cultural systems from birth through middle adulthood. Ecological and social
systems approaches used to study the person in environment. The perspective
considers reciprocal impact of the individual on the environment. Studies the
effect of human diversity on behavior in social situations. Prerequisites: SW
201; PSY 101, SOC 111.
SW 304 3 credits
Human Behavior/Social Environment II
Focuses on integration of the individual's biological, psychological, social
and cultural systems from middle adulthood through later adulthood, using the
ecological and social systems approach. Examination is made of interrelationship
of micro, mezzo and macro systems. Effect of human diversity on behavior in
social situations is studied. Emphasis is placed on ethnic and racial minorities,
women and other populations-at-risk who are discriminated against. Prerequisite:
SW 303.
SW 305 3 credits
Social Work Practice I
Introduction to generalist social work practice to explore basic knowledge,
values and skills required for a professional practitioner. Role play is integral
part of classroom experience. Prerequisites: SW 201, one course in psychology,
one in sociology.
SW 306 3 credits
Social Work Practice II
Students are introduced to generalist social work practice on micro, mezzo
and macro levels. Students learn basic skills, knowledge and values for professional
generalist practice. Emphasis is placed on working with individuals; role play
will be utilized in classroom experience. Prerequisites: SW 305.
SW 307 2 credits
Field Practicum I
Supervised social work practice in a social work agency. Students carry
beginning direct service responsibilities. A minimum of 100 hours of work is
required. Prerequisites: Social Work major; SW 201, one course in psychology,
one course in sociology. Does not count toward liberal arts core requirement.
Co-requisite: SW 311.
SW 308 2 credits
Field Practicum II
Supervised social work practice in a social work agency. Students carry
beginning direct service responsibilities. Minimum 100 hours of work is required.
Prerequisite: SW 307. Does not count toward liberal arts core requirement. Co-requisite:
SW 312.
SW 311 1 credit
Practicum I Seminar
Application and integration of social work knowledge acquired in the classroom
with the work in the social placement setting. Co-requisite: SW 307. Does not
count toward liberal arts core requirement.
SW 312 1 credit
Practicum II Seminar
Application and integration of social work knowledge acquired in class with
work in second placement. Co-requisite: SW 308. Does not count toward liberal
arts core requirement.
SW 314 3 credits
Managed Care
Introduces the student to the world of managed health care. Included is
an overview of the health care crisis in our country today and how, through
changes in traditional health care coverage, this issue is addressed. Students
will also examine the role of managed care as it relates to delivery of social
services. Cross-listed with HSM 314, may not take both for credit.
SW 343 3 credits
Living with AIDS
Focuses on medical, social, political, economic, ethical and personal realities
of AIDS. Special attention given to working with those populations at highest
risk of contracting and living with this disease, such as women, minority populations,
young gay men, and children. Course fulfills the human diversity graduation
requirement.
SW 347 3 credits
International Community Development
Associated with the Dominican Republic Program, La Mision de Amistad, students
learn theory, comparative cultural values, and the skills associated with community
development within a developing country. Course fulfills the human diversity
graduation requirement.
SW 401 3 credits
Social Work Practice III
Emphasis is placed on deepening the understanding of generalist social work
practice and the integration of knowledge, values and skills in working on mezzo
and macro levels, including discrimination and how it affects the functioning
of individuals, families, groups and social workers. Prerequisite: SW 306.
SW 402 3 credits
Social Work Practice IV
Expands understanding of generalist social work practice through integration
of knowledge, values and skills in working with groups, communities and government.
Also included is discrimination and how it affects functioning of these groups
and the social work profession. Emphasis on macro social work generalist practice.
Prerequisite: SW 401.
SW 403 4 credits
Field Practicum III
Supervised social work in a social setting. Students carry direct responsibilities.
Minimum of 200 hours of work is required. Prerequisite: SW 308. Does not count
toward liberal arts core requirement. Co-requisite: SW 407.
SW 404 4 credits
Field Practicum IV
Supervised social work in a social setting. Students continue to carry out
direct responsibilities. Minimum of 200 hours is required. Prerequisite: All
major requirements. Does not count toward liberal arts core requirement. Co-requisite:
SW 408.
SW 405 3 credits
Methods of Social Research
Introduces students to various methods of social research, including data
collection and analysis. Prepares students to effectively utilize current research
in professional practice. Students are required to complete a research project
related to their field placement. Prerequisites: MAT 208 or 209 and senior standing;
juniors need permission of instructor.
SW 407 1 credit
Practicum III Seminar
Integration and application in greater depth of social work theory acquired
in classroom with tasks and activities performed in social agency placement.
Prerequisite: All major requirements. Does not count toward liberal arts core
requirement. Co-requisite: SW 403.
SW 408 1 credit
Practicum IV Seminar
Integration and application in greater depth of social work theory acquired
in classroom with tasks and activities performed in the social agency placement.
Prerequisite: all major requirements. Does not count toward liberal arts core
requirement. Co-requisite: SW 404.
Sociology is the study of social life and social causes and consequences of human behavior. Provides insight into how the individual shapes and is shaped by groups such as family, community, occupation and other associative situations. The sociology program provides an understanding of society in terms of its organization, institutions, social processes, and social relationships.
Minor: 18 credits
SOC 111, 401
6 credits of Sociology at the 200 level
6 credits of Sociology at the 300 or 400 level.
SOC 111 3 credits
Principles of Sociology
An introduction to the major concepts in sociology. The nature and significance
of culture, social groups, role and status, social interaction, stratification,
system and structure are discussed within a sociological framework.
SOC 210 3 credits
Sociology of the Family
Consideration of meanings of marriage and family, contemporary gender roles,
intimate relationships and family life. All major areas are studied from a sociological
perspective.
SOC 212 3 credits
Contemporary Social Problems
Examination of social problems, using a sociological perspective, within
contemporary American society. An emphasis is placed on the analyses of social
values in viewing social problems.
SOC 214 3 credits
Sociology of Education
An analysis of education as a social institution and its relationship to
other institutions. The role of educator, administrator, student and parent
are conceptualized along with implications regarding ethnicity and subcultures,
social stratification and social changes.
SOC 306 3 credits
Racial and Cultural Relations
Analysis of ethnic and racial differentiation in pluralistic societies.
Theories of dominant and minority groups are studied. Course fulfills the human
diversity graduation requirement.
SOC 310 3 credits
Sociology of Health
A study of social and cultural factors in health and illness; and the social
and structural organization of the health care system and its impact on society.
Prerequisite: SOC 111.
SOC 401 3 credits
Sociological Theory
An examination of sociological theory, classical and modern traditions;
theorists such as Comte, Durkheim, Marx, Weber, Parsons, Merton, and others
associated with contributing to sociology represent content for critical examination,
Prerequisite: SOC 111; 3 additional credits in Sociology.
SOC 411 3 credits
Sociology of Men and Women
Critical examination of the implications of traditional sexual roles; emphasis
on the causes and consequences of current changes and the implication of these
changes on the feminine identity, family structure, sexual revolution, and consumption
patterns. Course fulfills the human diversity graduation requirement.
Interdisciplinary major offering a broad-based curricula in sport management, marketing and promotion, communications, law, finance and accounting, economics, and computer literacy. Students acquire understanding of role of sports in our society, role of management in sports, and have opportunities to apply knowledge in a variety of practical experiences through the cooperative education internships. Students who complete the degree may attain careers in professional or collegiate sports, resorts, athletic clubs/facilities, retail sporting goods, public relations, activities programming, sales and marketing.
Business Core: 30 credits
BUS 101, 200, 306; BUS 307, 342, 345, 346, 410, 426 and CIS/BUS 311.
Mathematics: 4 credits
In addition to meeting the liberal arts core requirement in math, students must
complete: MAT 208 or 209.
Sport Management Core: 34 credits
BUS 308, 310; COM 103, 131, 132, 240; SM 110, 210, 310, 410; two of the following:
COM 251, 330, 340, 351, 352.
Suggested Elective: 6 credits
SM 441.
Minor: 25 credits
COM 131, 132, 240; BUS 101, 306, 307; SM 110, 210, 310.
SM 110 3 credits
Introduction to Sport Management
Intro course presents business principles and procedures as applied to physical
education, intramural and recreational sports programs, and school and professional
sports programs.
SM 210 3 credits
Sports in American Society
Explores pervasive appeal of sports in American society. Interrelationships
among sport, behavior, culture, and social institutions of business, religion,
politics, education and family will be examined. Prerequisite: SM 110.
SM 310 3 credits
Facility Management and Operations
Examines planning, designing, financing, and selecting of sites for stadiums
and arenas. Operational functions such as personnel, finance, security, concessions,
seat distribution, event scheduling, equipment management and maintenance of
facilities and equipment will be presented. Prerequisite: SM 110.
SM 410 3 credits
Special Topics Seminar in Sport Management
Focuses on current issues in sports management field. Previously studied
topics in business and sports management courses will be integrated through
in-depth case studies. Strategic planning and problem-solving are stressed.
Prerequisite: SM 110, senior standing.
SM 441 6 credits
Cooperative Education in Sport Management
Supervised learning experience that integrates theoretical
course work, career goals and objectives, and on-the-job work experience in
the sports management field. Academic assignments supplement actual work experience.
Prerequisite: Senior standing and a 2.75 GPA. Special consideration may be given
to outstanding juniors. Students must have successfully completed 30 credits
at Alvernia.
Theological study long has attempted to address the most profound questions of existence and the meaning of the human religious experience. Theology courses ask these questions with attention to the universally human and particular focus on the Judeo-Christian tradition. The Catholic expression of that tradition receives the greatest, but not exclusive, emphasis.
A major in theology prepares students for further work in academe or seminary and also can serve to complement another major. As a discipline in the liberal arts, it refines critical thinking skills and teaches openness to the complexity of serious issues. A minor in the discipline provides students with greater knowledge of religious questions.
Major: 30 credits
THE 105, one course selected from: 200, 210, 225; 2 courses (6 credits) from
among: THE 306, 308, 309; THE 380; 15 credits in Theology electives.
Minor: 18 credits
With the exception of THE 210, Medical Moral Theology, all courses at the 200 level or higher require THE 105, Foundations of Theology, or permission of the department chair. Students in the Mid-Degree, Plus Two, and Degree Completion programs are exempt from this requirement.
THE 105 3 credits
Foundations of Theology
Inquiry into nature of religion and its relation to other areas of human
experience. Role of theology in bringing a religious tradition to reflective
awareness. Focus on Christianity, especially its Catholic expression.
THE 200 3 credits
Christian Approach to Morality
Study of fundamentals of moral theology: concepts of freedom, responsibility,
law and conscience are surveyed within context of Catholic theology and natural
law tradition.
THE 210 3 credits
Medical Moral Theology
Investigation of moral problems which can arise in the area of bioethics.
Introductory survey of the basic Christian principles of morality is followed
by treatment of various medical moral situations. A natural law methodology
is applied throughout the course.
THE 225 3 credits
Global Issues: The Gospel Perspective
Ethical concerns in war, peace, global and domestic policy, and other social
issues. Addresses both Roman Catholic teachings and writings from other religions
and cultures. Course fulfills the human diversity graduation requirement.
THE 300 3 credits
Marriage and Sexuality
Theological study of dogmatic and moral questions concerning human sexuality
and marriage in light of anthropology, the scriptures, natural law, traditions,
and the understanding of revelation within history.
THE 306 3 credits
Biblical Studies: Gospel Portrait of Jesus
Examination of the portrayal of Jesus in Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke
and John, using tools of historical and literary criticism.
THE 308 3 credits
Biblical Studies: Old Testament Studies
Examination of selected books of the Old Testament, including representation
from Law, Prophets and Writings.
THE 309 3 credits
Biblical Studies: New Testament Studies
Examination of selected books of the New Testament, with particular emphasis
on the Pauline writings.
THE 345 3 credits
Issues in Historical Theology
An historical study of the principal theological controversies that shaped
the development of Christianity. This course is designed as an introduction
to theological study for students in the Innovative Degree Programs (Plus Two,
Mid-Degree, Degree Completion). Other students must have permission of the instructor.
THE 350 3 credits
Franciscan Studies
Study of the life and spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, his charism and its
relevance for the contemporary world. Includes theological and philosophical
perspectives of other Franciscans. Examines the historical and ecclesial environment
of Franciscan Movement and its impact up to the present.
THE 364 3 credits
Mysticism
Study of mysticism focusing on the Christian tradition, but including examination
of non-Christian religions as well.
THE 380 3 credits
Christ and the Church
Study of the various ways in which Christ has been understood by communities
of faith. Particular attention will be given to the New Testament. The role
of the Church and its relation to Christ will be considered, as well as its
relation to the modern world.
THE 405 3 credits
Medieval and Reformation Theological Evolution
An historical study of the doctrinal and ecclesial developments that shaped
the medieval and reformation periods. Prerequisite: THE 105 or 345.
THE 420 3 credits
Worship and Sacraments
Study of the development of the theology of the sacraments. Specific treatment
will be given to the sacraments of initiation: baptism, confirmation, Eucharist.
In addition, attention will also be given to the sacraments of reconciliation,
matrimony, holy orders, and anointing of the sick.
THE 425 3 credits
Judaic Studies
In-depth study of the development of Jewish historical, cultural, religious,
and political tradition. This course is partly supported by the Jewish Chautauqua
Society.
Alvernia offers a minor in Women's Studies that is designed to heighten awareness of the impact of gender across all areas of human endeavor, encouraging a better appreciation of the diverse contributions of our common humanity.
Minor: 15 credits
9-15 credits from: ENG 216; PSY 308; HIS 230; SOC 411; BUS 290; MUS 331; THE
390 (ST: Women in the Bible).
A maximum of six credits from: COM 290 (ST: Language in American Society); CJ
411; MUS 222; PHI 420; PSY 215; SSC 321; SW 202, 203; THE 300.