Social Service Worker

SWCE 150-090: Human Development (online)

This course employs theory and research findings to understand and assess functioning of individuals and families in their social environment. It emphasizes a biopsychosocial approach for analyzing the impact of various social forces on individual and family dynamics.

SWCE 300-090: Social Welfare Institutions (online)

This course provides undergraduate students with an introduction to the history and development of the social work profession, as well as the development and role of the social work profession in the social welfare institutional system. In examining the history and development of the social work profession, the course will examine the social work principles and values associated with working with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. In examining the development and role of the social work profession in the social welfare institutional system, the course will examine historical and contemporary social, political, economic, and cultural issues (i.e., poverty, racism, discrimination, child welfare, domestic violence, chronic illness, mental illness, substance abuse, crime, unemployment, and homelessness) in society. The course will also examine how public- and private-based human and social service institutions have/are attempting to alleviate or eliminate these social issues in society.

SWCE 578-090: Social Work Practice Methods (online)

This course introduces students from various disciplines to knowledge, values, and skills for generalist social work practice. Special emphasis is placed on social work at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. This course focuses on the planned change process and social work roles at various levels. It also includes content on values, ethics, and the resolution of ethical dilemmas and practice and program evaluation.

Classes – There are three (3) non-credit classes including Human Growth and Development, Social Welfare Policy, and Social Work Practice Methods.

Format –The classes are designed for working professionals and are available to students in an online format, allowing students to study when and where they want.

Program Start Options – The classes are offered every semester—fall, spring and summer semesters. Classes are offered with fixed start and end dates across a traditional semester schedule. Please check with the program advisor to explore your individual program of study options.

Class Schedule – The classes are available to students in an online format, so the class schedule is conveniently available to students at any time.

Average Time to Complete – Most students complete all three classes in one semester. However, there is no minimum or maximum number of classes a student must or can take per semester.

Prerequisites – There are no prerequisites to begin the classes.

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Level Examination

Individuals who successfully complete these non-credit SSW classes are eligible to sit for the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Level Examination. The examinations provided by the Association of Social Work Boards are used in every U.S. state, as well as the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba. Each examination contains 170 four-option, multiple-choice questions designed to measure minimum competencies at four categories of practice. Only 150 of the 170 items are scored; the remaining 20 questions are pretest items included to measure their effectiveness as items on future examinations. These pretest items are scattered randomly throughout the examination. Candidates have four hours to complete the test, which is administered electronically. Examinations are administered by appointment. There are no fixed administration dates. Instead, registered candidates can schedule a time to take the test. Special accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities. Additionally, many jurisdictions offer arrangements for candidates whose first language is not English. The University of Utah does not administer the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Level Examination nor does it approve Social Service Worker (SSW) licensure.

Information for Social Services Worker Licensing

Candidates must meet the State of Utah licensing requirements, which can be reviewed here, and they should contact the Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) for more information.

Program Cost –Non-credit tuition for each class is $750/ Full program cost is $2250, plus any course-related special fees

Tuition is due at the beginning of each course, offering a convenient pay-as-you-go option. Textbooks are additional costs and may be included as an “Inclusive Access” fee (see below for more information). Tuition listed above subject to change without advance notice.

• The University of Utah Campus Store has a course materials program called Inclusive Access which provides digital course materials/textbooks to students at a reduced cost. If your instructor participates, you should receive an email prior to the first day of class with instructions on how to access your course materials in Canvas.
• Financial aid is not available for non-credit classes. Students are encouraged to inquire with their employers to determine if tuition assistance is available.
• For information about tuition payment options visit Tuition Payment Options.
• These classes are not eligible for tuition reduction.

For students earning an “S-Satisfactory" grade, the completed certificate will appear on University of Utah official transcripts.

Why choose the University of Utah?

We understand that you have a choice when it comes to taking professional development courses and we work hard to earn your trust with each and every class! By choosing the University of Utah for your continuing professional education, you’ll enjoy the following benefits whether you’re coming to us as someone new to the job market, a career changer, a seasoned professional or a lifelong learner.

• Instructor Excellence - Learn from high-quality faculty that teach degree programs at the University of Utah.
• Curriculum Excellence- Acquire high-quality and evidence-based knowledge and skills.
• The Power of the U Network – Have access to a valuable University of Utah peer and faculty network.
• Programs that Fit Your Schedule –Convenient online classes that offer a schedule that works around you.

We get it… once you’ve got your degree, life comes at you fast.

To stay ahead, you need a program that can help you run at this quick pace. Our certificates are designed to be fast and focused. Courses are oriented towards specific skills that are in demand in the job market. Most certificates can be completed within 8 weeks, keeping the cost down and your career in the fast lane.

Why choose the University of Utah?

We understand that you have a choice when it comes to taking professional development courses and we work hard to earn your trust with each and every class!

By selecting the University of Utah, you’ll enjoy the following benefits whether you’re coming to us as someone new to the job market, a career changer, a seasoned professional or a lifelong learner.

Resume Power - Benefit from the University of Utah reputation for credibility and quality. Choosing the University of Utah for your certificate program makes a clear statement about your commitment to excellence.

Instructor Excellence – Our certificate programs are led by local experts; working professionals by day, instructors by night. You’ll learn from an experienced crew and gain real-time insights and networking opportunities from the front lines. Each certificate has its own director who makes it a priority to keep the curriculum in line with the skills currently in demand in the market. They are also a source of encouragement as you move through the program and prepare for your next step.

Quality - we’re accredited. We have a long history of academic excellence. Choosing the University of Utah for your certificate program makes a clear statement about your commitment to excellence.

The Power of the U Network – Students have access to a valuable University of Utah peer and faculty network.

Networking – Meet and network with other students pursuing or working in the industry.

Student Support – Count on the ongoing support of a dedicated student services staff that will assist you every step of the way

There is no application and individuals can register for the courses through the University of Utah Continuing Education.

Completion Requirements

• Students will be required to fulfill the same expectations and requirements as matriculated students including class participation and assignments.
• Students will receive an “S-Satisfactory” or “U-Unsatisfactory” assessment for each class. “S-Satisfactory” will indicate that the student has met the standards for at least a C-.
• Students must receive an “S-Satisfactory" grade in all classes for successful completion.
• Noncredit SSW courses appear on your student transcript as "Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory" and can be used as proof of completion.
• Order your official transcripts, either digital or hardcopy, here.

Does the Certificate of Completion for the SSW courses mean I’m licensed?

No, the Certification of Completion is awarded to individuals following their successful completion of the SSW courses. The Certificate of Completion is awarded by the University of Utah. The SSW license is awarded by the State of Utah Department of Commerce Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).

How do I apply for SSW licensure?

Individuals who complete the required SSW courses can apply for licensure through the State of Utah Department of Commerce Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL). For more information see https://dopl.utah.gov/index.html.

Am I graded in the classes?

Yes, instructors do grade students on assignments—quizzes, examinations, written papers, however classes are graded with a "Satisfactory" or "Unsatisfactory" option. For successful certificate completion, students must achieve a "Satisfactory" grade in all classes.

Can I apply these classes to a degree at the University of Utah?

These are non-credit classes and cannot be applied to any for-credit degree.

Will I have flexibility in what classes I take and when?

Students are responsible for enrolling in individual classes on their own through the Continuing Education website. Students may consult with the academic advisor if they have questions about specific courses. See the “Contact Us” section below for the program advisors’ contact information.

Are these classes eligible for federal financial aid?

Students taking non-credit classes are not eligible for federal student aid loan programs.

What is the average weekly time commitment for each of the classes?

Students can expect to spend between 4 – 6 hours per week outside of the classroom per class.

Does it matter which class I take first or in what order I take the classes?

There is no order in which students are required to complete the classes. Students skipping one or more semesters are encouraged to communicate with their academic advisor regarding completion plans.

You have a variety of resources available to help you navigate your way through your experience at the U. Below we've listed the contacts that you will likely interact with the most.

College of Social Work
Molly Parker
Director of Academic Advising
molly.parker@utah.edu
(801) 581-4428

Continuing Education
Contact personnel at Continuing Education for questions about class requirements, completion process or overall experience.
Taylor Bond
certificates@continue.utah.edu
Certificates & Contracts Coordinator
(801) 581-7912