History and Theory in Social Work

Graduate

This course provides an in-depth examination of the development of the social work profession over the last one hundred years. An exploration of the impact of changing social, political, economic, moral, and historical contexts on the practice, theoretical and scholarly orientations of the profession will be highlighted. Key debates regarding the mission and development of professions in general and social work in particular; the relationship between practice, scholarship, and social policy; and tensions between disciplinary (and inter-disciplinary) approaches to social work knowledge development will be discussed within its national and international contexts. This seminar will also provide an examination of selected issues facing the profession today.