1
Social
Work
Program
Student
Handbook
2013-2014
Lindenwood University
209 South Kingshighway
St. Charles, MO 63301
Revised 8-02-2013
2
Lindenwood University
Social Work Program
Student Manual
Table of Contents
Page
Title
3
4
Purpose of Handbook
Lindenwood University – Social Work Program Administrators
and Faculty
Mission and Goals of Lindenwood University Social Work Program
Uniqueness of the Lindenwood University Department of Social Work
Social Work Curriculum
Social Work Advisory Council
Admissions Requirements and Application
Academic Policies
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Nonacademic Policies
Resources for Students
Appendix ACode of Ethics of the National Association of Social
CSWE: Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards
Lindenwood University Plagiarism Policy
Social Work Program Admissions Procedure
The Constitution of the Social Work Student Alliance
5
6
7
7
8
12
16
18
18
21
22
42
45
50
55
Alphabetical by topic:
Page
Title
12
50
8
21
22
43
44
5
18
3
18
7
4
7
55
16
6
Revised 8-02-2013
Academic Policies
Admissions Procedure
Admissions Requirements and Application to the major
Appendix A
Code of Ethics of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
CSWE: Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards
Honesty Policy
Mission and Goals of Lindenwood University Social Work Program
Nonacademic Policies
Purpose of Handbook
Resources for Students
Social Work Curriculum
Social Work Program Administrators and Faculty
Social Work Advisory Council
Social Work Student Alliance (SWSA)
Student Rights and Responsibilities
Uniqueness of the Lindenwood University Department of Social Work
3
Welcome to the Lindenwood University Department of Social Work! I extend my personal
greetings to all who want to be part of an exciting and innovative education, profession and
career.
Our mission is to train generalist social workers and to prepare students for social work graduate
education. We have a successful track record in both of these areas. Our faculty consists of highly
experienced social workers and social work educators who combine theory with practice bringing
you a well-rounded generalist approach. We certainly believe you have made an excellent choice
in joining us.
Our classes are small and interactive. Our professors are approachable and available. Advising is
a collaborative effort between student and educator, yet recognizes the student as the ultimate
person responsible for creating the path for their own learning. We teach the skills, techniques and
means to effect change with others in a multi-cultural world. Our social work students are
actively involved in the community. We explore ways to eliminate social injustice in a modern
society in an ethical, value-based approach to aiding individuals, groups, families, organizations
and communities.
Social Work is a dynamic and rewarding field. Glad you’re here! We can make a difference
together.
Sincerely,
Dana W. Klar
Dana W. Klar, JD, MSW, LCSW
Social Work Department Chair
Associate Professor
Purpose of the Handbook
This student handbook is designed to supplement Lindenwood University’s Undergraduate
Catalog with details about the BSW program. It provides an overview of policies and procedures
required to graduate. The faculty are available to mentor, guide and assist students to gain the
most from their social work education. Students are to consult with their academic advisor for
needed clarification and direction.
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Lindenwood University
Department of Social Work Administrators and Faculty
Carla Mueller, Dean of Human Services, Associate Professor of Social Work
Office: 201 Memorial Arts Building (MAB)
Phone: (636) 949-4731
Email: cmueller@lindenwood.edu
For Admissions questions contact:
Dana Klar, Social Work Department Chair, Associate Professor of Social Work
Office: 209 Memorial Arts Building (MAB)
Phone: (636) 949-4783
Email: dklar@lindenwood.edu
For Field Education questions contact:
Debra Johnson, Associate Professor of Social Work, Field Education Coordinator
Office: 207 Memorial Arts Building (MAB)
Phone: (636) 949-4193
Email: djohnson@lindenwood.edu
Denise King, Assistant Professor of Social Work
Office: 205 Memorial Arts Building (MAB)
Phone: (636) 627-2951
Email: dking1@lindenwood.edu
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I. Mission of the Lindenwood University Department of Social Work
The Department of Social Work at Lindenwood University’s mission is to prepare
undergraduate students for ethical and effective entry-level generalist social work practice with
individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities and to promote societal
responsibility and social justice.
Utilizing a liberal arts perspective to promote the understanding of the person-in-environment
paradigm of professional social work practice, students gain direct knowledge of social,
psychological and biological factors of human behavior and of human diversity, social conditions
and social problems. Successful completion of the Program Goals ensures the preparation of
effective social work professionals who are prepared for graduate study in social work.
II. Goals of the Lindenwood University Department of Social Work
1. Graduates of the Lindenwood University Department of Social Work will demonstrate
competencies for entry-level practice with diverse individuals, families, groups,
organizations, communities and society in changing social contexts.
2. Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared for graduate study in
Social Work and/or will be employed in the broad field of human services.
Our curriculum is infused with the following themes:





Cultural Diversity
At-risk Populations
Critical Thinking Skills
Values & Ethics
Communication Skills
III. Objectives of Lindenwood University Department of Social Work
The Social Work program/curricular objectives presented below are derived from our goals of the
development of entry level generalist social workers and preparation for graduate education in
social work. They are consistent with the best practices of social work and are seen by the CSWE
Handbook of Social Work Accreditation Policies and Procedures for the 2008 Educational Policy
and Accreditation Standards (EPAS).
Consistent with our goals, graduates of the Lindenwood University Department of Social Work
will demonstrate the ability to:
1. Student identifies as a professional social worker and conducts self accordingly
2. Student applies social work ethical principles to guide professional practice
3. Student applies critical thinking to inform and communicate professional judgments
4. Student engages diversity and difference in practice
5. Student advances human rights and social and economic justice
6. Student engages in research-informed practice and practice-informed research
7. Student applies knowledge of human behavior and the social environment
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8. Student engages in policy practice to advance social and economic well-being and to
deliver effective social work
9. Student responds to contexts that shape practice
10. Student engages, assesses, intervenes, and evaluates individuals, families, groups,
organizations and communities
The Uniqueness of the Lindenwood University Department of Social Work
History of Lindenwood University Department of Social Work
The development of the Lindenwood University’s Department of Social Work has maintained its
responsiveness to our many environments. We are located in historic St. Charles, Missouri an
area where the traditions of Daniel Boone, Lewis and Clark, and Sacagawea helped set the tone
for the pioneering spirit and furthered the American value of a fair and just society. In this
fashion, Lindenwood University, established in 1827, uses these traditions today in its mission,
degree programs and commitment to the community. As the Social Work Program has evolved,
the pioneering spirit and inclusiveness of all contributors to the development of our great nation
has become a central theme in our education of generalist social workers.
In the Fall Semester of 1997, faculty from the Sociology/Anthropology Programs convened a
meeting with students to determine if there would be an interest in Lindenwood University
offering a Social Work degree program. Approximately thirty students attended that meeting,
expressing their interest in learning about such a program. Two students were completing a
contract degree for social work at that time.
Responsive to student interest, Lindenwood University hired Maggie Lippmann, MSW, as an
adjunct faculty member to teach an Introduction to Social Work course in the Spring Semester of
1998. Based on the success of this course and continued student interest, Lindenwood University
proceeded to implement a Social Work program. In June of 1998, Carla Mueller, LCSW, was
hired as a full-time faculty member to develop the Social Work Program to begin in the Fall
Semester of 1998. The initial plan was to develop the curriculum within the guidelines of the
Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation standards so as to seek formal
accreditation if the program grew. Formal support for the accreditation of the Social Work
Program was included in the 1998-1999 Lindenwood University Strategic Plan.
The Social Work Program curriculum initially borrowed from coursework in other programs
including psychology, sociology and human service agency management. As the number of
declared majors increased, the curriculum was revised, and additional social work courses were
added. As student enrollment grew, so did the number of field practicum sites to over thirty
placement opportunities. Interest from the community in the Lindenwood University Social Work
Program increased.
As the number of declared majors consistently averaged 30-40 students the need for more faculty
members became apparent. In August of 2003, Debra Johnson, LCSW was added to the School
of Human Services as a full-time faculty member, teaching in both social work and criminal
justice. In 2004, Dr. Mike Jacobsen was hired to provide direction to the process of obtaining
CSWE accreditation, serve as Social Work Program Manager, and teach full-time in the social
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work program with Professors Mueller and Johnson. At that time Professor Mueller became
Coordinator of Field Education in the Social Work Program. During the summer of 2007,
Professor Mueller was appointed as Interim Dean of the School of Human Services and Professor
Johnson replaced her as Coordinator of Field Education. Later that academic year, Professor
Mueller was appointed Dean of the now School of Human Services and Professor Dana Klar was
employed as a full-time faculty member in Social Work and Coordinator of Field Education in
June of 2008. Dean Mueller continues to teach full-time in the Social Work Program and to serve
as the Dean for the school of Human Services. Professor Jacobsen departed, and Gary Behrman
was hired as the new Department Chair and BSW Program Director in January 2010 and taught
full time in the program until his departure in January of 2013. Professor Johnson took over
Department Chair responsibilities until switching to the role of Coordinator of Field Education in
June of 2013. In August of 2013, Professor Denise King joined the program, and serves as the
assessment coordinator while teaching full time. Professor Klar is now the Program Director and
Chair of the Social Work Department. In these roles, she is in charge of the daily administrative
tasks like recruiting, maintaining the course schedule, catalog updates and advisee assignments.
The Social Work Advisory Council (initially called the Social Work Advisory board) was started
in 2005 to provide input and feedback from current practitioners in the field of social work to the
BSW faculty and students at Lindenwood. Their responsibilities include: bringing knowledge,
skills and values that can aid the maintenance and development of the program; interviewing
students for admission into the BSW program; reviewing student field applications; and providing
that much needed connection to the community.
Lindenwood University’s Department of Social Work graduates are being hired in diverse social
services agencies and community health organizations. Many of our early graduates are now in
supervisory positions. Other graduates have been accepted into and graduated from MSW
programs. Lindenwood is proud of its social work alumni and we keep connected to the social
work community through them. As one may see from this brief history of the Social Work
Program, Lindenwood University has been consistently responsive to student interests and
programmatic demand through support of the development of the program.
The Social Work Student Alliance (SWSA), the social work student organization, began in 1999
and has continued its service learning projects and annual recognition luncheon to date. Other
program highlights have included Lindenwood-sponsored trips to Europe in the J-terms of 2003
and 2013 to complement learning about international social work. These were offered as Special
Topics courses entitled International Social Work.
The Social Work Curriculum
The Social Work degree program prepares students for generalist social work practice by
requiring a liberal arts general education background, required social work courses, elective social
work courses, courses that may meet the requirements for a minor or double major, and a
supervised social work field practicum.
Social work majors spend most of their first two years completing general education requirements
and introductory social work courses. A secondary admissions process is required for students to
be accepted into the program. The remaining coursework includes courses in practice with
individuals, families, groups, agencies and communities; human behavior in the social
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environment; social welfare policy and services; social work research and field practicum
seminar.
Admissions Requirements
Consistent with University policy, students may select Social Work as their major area of study
with their initial enrollment at Lindenwood University. If that is the situation, they are
immediately assigned to an advisor from among the faculty members in the Social Work Program.
More typically, students choose the major after considering the options available to them at
Lindenwood and enrolling in a social work course taught by social work faculty.
Students, however, who wish to complete the major in Social Work at Lindenwood University,
must complete a “secondary admissions” process. Only students formally admitted to the Social
Work major may register for Social Work Practice I (SW 31000), the first required practice course
in social work. Social Work Practice I is a prerequisite for all other required practice courses in
the program as well as for field placement.
Introduction to Social Work (SW 11000), is a pre- or co-requisite for enrollment in SW 10500.
Social Service Agency Observation (SW 10500) and Human Behavior in the Social Environment
II (SW 28000) are prerequisites for initial enrollment in SW 31000. Initial application for final
admission to the Social Work major is conducted the semester before the student would take
Social Work Practice I and prior to enrollment.
To be admitted to the baccalaureate degree program in Social Work at Lindenwood University
students must have:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Completed a minimum of 45 credits with an average GPA of 2.0 or better.
Completed the courses SOC 10200, PSY 10000 and BIO 10700 with an average
GPA of 2.0 or better in those courses.
Completed the courses SW 10000, SW 11000, SW 10500, SW 24000, and
SW 28000 with an average GPA of 2.5 or better in those courses.
Submitted two reference letters in support of the application: one non-social work
academic reference and one letter of reference from a professional (in the field of
human services - preferred).
Submitted a satisfactory statement addressing their reasons for wanting to be a
social worker (3 pages typewritten)
Satisfactorily completed an admissions interview with social work faculty and
members of the Social Work Program Advisory Council.
Verified the Declaration of Major with the Lindenwood University Academic
Advisement Office.
Successfully passed the Writing Proficiency Assessment (WPA)
Determination of final admission to the major is made collectively by full-time faculty members
in the Social Work Program. Final determination will be made no later than two weeks after the
student applicant has been interviewed. The Social Work Department Chair will inform the
applicants of the decision of the faculty. This decision may be relayed verbally and will be
followed up by a letter. If the decision is to deny admission, the Chair will inform the student
within one week of the decision through a written communication detailing the reasons for the
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denial. That letter will request that the student meet with his or her advisor to review the reasons
for the denial. Students may utilize the appeals process to appeal the decision. Students may also
reapply for admission based on a plan, including specific timelines, jointly developed by the
student and advisor to correct the concerns identified in the denial. The subsequent application
must provide evidence that the conditions specified for denial have been corrected. Consistent
with the Lindenwood University mission, a student may continue to reapply for admission,
through the processes identified above, until admitted. Students choosing to not develop a plan
for correction and reapplication are to work with their advisor to explore other degree options.
Readmission
Students who withdraw or are asked to withdraw from the major of Social Work may reapply for
readmission under the same requirements and procedures utilized for initial application.
Required Courses in Social Work
Hours Course
3 SW 10000 Intercultural Communication
This is an Oral Communications General Education Course (GE-Comm)
1 SW 10500 Social Service Agency Observation
Prerequisite SW 11000
3 SW 11000 Introduction to Social Work
3 SW 24000 Human Diversity & Social Justice
This is also a Social Sciences General Education Course (GE-SocSci)
3 SW 27000 Human Behavior in the Social Environment I
Prerequisites SW 11000, PSY 10000, BIO 10700
3 SW 28000 Human Behavior in the Social Environment II
Prerequisite SW 27000
4 SW 31000 Social Work Practice I
Prerequisites SW 11000, SW 28000, full admission to the Social Work Program
4 SW 31100 Social Work Practice II
Prerequisite SW 31000
4 SW 31200 Social Work Practice III
Prerequisite SW 31100
3 SW 32000 Social Welfare Policy & Services I
Prerequisites ENG 17000 (C or better), PS 15500 or 15600, SW 11000
3 SW 32500 Social Work Research Methods
Prerequisites MTH 14100, SW 11000
3 SW 36000 Service Learning
Prerequisites SW 11000, SW 10500
3 SW 42100 Social Welfare Policy & Services II
Prerequisite SW 32000
9 SW 45000 Field Practicum
Prerequisites SW 36000, and permission of dean
Requires continued admission within the social work program, an overall GPA of
2.5 in all social work courses and overall GPA of 2.0, and successful submission of all
required field practicum materials per time table.
49 14 total required Social Work courses
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Sample Student Curriculum (Freshman student starting at LU)
Year 1 Fall Term
Year 1 Spring Term
2
LUL 10100
3
BIO 10700
1
Activity course
3
ENG 17000
3
ENG 15000
3
SW 10000
3
SOC 10200
6
GE
3
SW 11000
1
SW 10500
3
General Education course (GE)
15
16
Year 2 Fall Term
Year 2 Spring Term
3
PSY 10000
6
SW 27000/ SW 28000
3
PS 15500 or 15600
3
MTH 14100
3
SW 24000
7
GE, including science lab
9
GE
16
18
Year 3 Fall Term
Year 3 Spring Term
3
SW 32500
3
SW elective
3
SW elective
6
SW 32000/SW 42100
9
Electives
3
SW 36000
6
Electives (30000-level)
15
18
Year 4 Fall Term
Year 4 Spring Term
6
SW 31000/SW 31100
9
SW 45000
3
SW elective(30000-level)
3
SW 31200
9
Electives
18
12
* In addition (or to substitute for electives), students may take three week January-term courses,
which are generally 3 credit hours of electives. Some students may also choose to take summer
courses.
128 hours total are required to graduate, with 42 hours of those at 30000 level or above.
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Transfer students will meet with a social work advisor to determine an individualized plan
for graduation that includes transfer credits, remaining general education and major courses to be
taken. The last 36 credit hours must be taken at Lindenwood University.
Social Work Practicum
As part of the social work curriculum, social work majors are required to complete SW 45000, a
nine-credit hour course in field education. Curriculum pre-requisites include SW 36000, and
permission of the dean. The practicum requires continued admission within the social work
program, an overall GPA of 2.5 in all social work courses and overall GPA of 2.0; and successful
submission of all required materials for application. Students must apply for practicum per the
procedure outlined in the Social Work Program Field Practicum Manual.
Placements are recommended by the Field Education Coordinator based on the student’s areas of
interest and social work ability. Students must be interviewed by recommended agencies.
Students must have access to needed transportation and comply with agency requirements such as
background checks, references, etc. When approved by the agency and the Field Education
Coordinator, students are to complete at least 400 hours during the semester in the agency setting.
Concurrent mandatory attendance at a weekly seminar is also required.
Students are supervised by a field supervisor with a degree in social work employed by the
agency. The Field Practicum Supervisor and Field Education Coordinator meet at least twice per
semester to evaluate the student’s progress. As needed, ongoing consultation and availability for
assistance to resolve any problems/concerns that may occur is provided by the Field Education
Coordinator. If the direct supervisor does not have a degree in social work then a liaison will be
appointed from the agency that does have a degree in Social Work. If in the case of a newly
degreed social worker at the agency, additional training and supervision of the field supervisor
will be the responsibility of the Field Education Coordinator. It is the Field Education
Coordinator’s responsibility to provide or secure additional training for the field supervisor if
needed to insure a quality placement meeting CSWE standards.
The Department of Social Work has developed the following goals for the program based on
particular elements of generalist social work education in our multiple environments:
The need for cultural diversity education
St. Charles, MO is within 24 miles of St. Louis, Missouri—a large urban environment, that
is cosmopolitan, and a multi-cultural metropolitan center in the Midwest. Attending
Lindenwood, a university with a large international student population, with students from
different states, different races and ethnic groups, different religions and differing sexual
orientations, students enter a multi-cultural experience both in and outside the classroom.
The need for raising awareness of at-risk populations
An awareness of at-risk populations is integral to our curriculum. Many of our students are
involved in a variety of community service projects and volunteering, most come to us
eager to understand the dynamics of historical discrimination, oppression, and how to
prevent these social ills. We educate and train our students to be responsive to at-risk
populations and how to advocate for political and economic change.
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The need for critical thinking skills
The effect of a computerized society influences all of us. It is essential for social workers
to have the ability to develop critical thinking skills. With the availability of the internet to
quickly offer vast amounts of information, students have access to this resource to guide
and inform how we think about an issue or a group of people. With the impact of media,
students learn how to use technology effectively, efficiently and ethically.
The need for continued consideration of values and ethics
Lindenwood University has a historical relationship with the Presbyterian Church and that
by mission, we are interested in placing values at the center of our educational process.
This means that faculty take into consideration the values and ethics of our students as
central to our educational experiences. This is reinforced by our professional code of
ethics and concerns for our students and the populations they will serve.
The need for communication skills
At the heart of the mission of Lindenwood University is the development of the whole
person—an educated, responsible citizen of a global community. With this dedication to
the global community emerges a need for an effective set of communication skills. These
must include verbal and written skills, as well as individual and group presentation
abilities. The goal is for the student to have the capability of communicating between and
among diverse groups of people.
Academic Policies
The following are several of the Lindenwood University Department of Social Work and
University-wide policies that are relevant to Social Work majors. These and other University
policies that apply to undergraduate students can be found in the Lindenwood University
Undergraduate Catalog and the Lindenwood University Student Handbook.
Academic Honesty
Academic dishonesty is an exceptionally serious offense to oneself and one’s colleagues. The
fabric of a learning community is woven by a bond of trust: the work to which we affix our names
is our own. To act otherwise is to undermine the contract of good faith on which productive study
and the open exchange of ideas is based. Therefore, students wishing to maintain formal
membership in a learning community must display the high level of integrity expected of all its
members.
According to Lindenwood University Academic Honesty policy, names of undergraduate students
found guilty of cheating, plagiarizing, or deception will be sent to the University Provost. A first
offense of academic dishonesty may result in a lessened or failing grade on the work/test or failure
of the course. A second offense will lead to academic probation and failure of the class, and a
third offense will result in expulsion of the university. Any questions concerning this policy
should be directed to the Provost. This policy can be read in the Lindenwood University
Undergraduate Catalog, and is found in each Social Work syllabus.
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Accommodation
It is the guiding philosophy of Lindenwood University to make programs and facilities as
accessible to students with disabilities as is practical. The coordinator for campus accessibility
services acts to ensure the accessibility of programs and assists and supports students with
disabilities. The coordinator is currently housed in MAB 210. Students requiring any form of
accommodation due to disability are to conference with the instructor to determine how to meet
the student’s needs.
Advising
The advisor/advisor relationship is extremely important in a professional social work program.
Advisory contacts occur throughout a student’s academic career at Lindenwood University often
go beyond routine academic advisement. Students are encouraged to discuss career questions,
academic problems and opportunities, graduation requirements, social work coursework, potential
field practicum placements, graduate school and employment opportunities, and personal issues,
as related to their professional development, with her/his advisor.
The students’ advisor will be one of the social work faculty members who will become the
student’s guide through successful completion of the program. Students are required to meet with
her/his advisor at least once per semester to register for classes, but students will find that
connecting with an advisor throughout the school year will work to the student’s benefit. The
advisor will be a mentor for academic progress and also for a student’s social work career.
When admitted to the program, a plan to finish the student’s degree will be developed. Students
will be informed as to when courses are expected to be offered and what the expectations for that
coursework will be. Advisors have an open door policy and are accessible to students often on a
drop-in basis; however, every advisor posts a schedule specifying designated office hours or will
be available on an appointment basis. Availability to and taking personal interest in our social
work students is a hallmark of our program. Please see Appendix A for the Department of Social
Work Advising Worksheet.
Assessment
With the commitment to improve the effectiveness of the university, students will periodically be
asked to participate in in-class activities that will provide feedback regarding class content and
structure and information necessary from a student perspective. This is a key part of our ongoing
institutionally based evaluation process with the goal of educational betterment at Lindenwood
University.
Attendance
The Lindenwood University policy on attendance is that all students are expected to attend all
classes and class activities for which they are enrolled. If classes are missed, a student is expected
to make up the work to the satisfaction of the instructor of each class. The student is responsible
for informing the instructor of any absence to class whenever possible.
At times, absences from class may be unavoidable—as in instances of prolonged illness,
hospitalization, or participation in an approved student activity, i.e. excused absences. Please see
page 25 of the 2013-2014 catalog for policies regarding absences as well as unsatisfactory work
due to excessive absences from class. The student is responsible for informing the instructor of
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any absence prior to class whenever possible. The instructor may require documentation prior to
approving an absence as excused.
Each social work faculty member will document requirements regarding make-up work, late
assignments, absences, etc. in his/her course syllabus. Students are expected to be familiar with
these requirements and direct any questions/concerns to the appropriate course instructor.
Classroom Courtesy
Classroom courtesy is expected to enhance the learning environment for all students. It is
expected that students will be to class on-time, will not leave prior to the class’ end, will not
engage in private discussions including the use of cellular telephones and text messaging, and are
not to sleep or otherwise engage in behavior that may interfere with other students or the
instructor. Students will have the opportunity to interact in classroom discussion and small group
exercises. It is expected that the beliefs, values and opinions of others will be respected.
Credit for Life Experience
The Lindenwood University Department of Social Work does not grant social work course credit
for life experience or previous work experience.
Course Substitutions
Occasionally, students may wish to substitute another course for a required course. All such
requests should be presented to the student’s advisor. The advisor will evaluate the merits of such
a request by determining whether the course content of the proposed course is appropriate as a
substitute. If the advisor agrees, the advisor will recommend that the Social Work Department
Chair approve the substitution. The Social Work Department Chair, in consultation with the
Social Work faculty, is responsible for making that decision. The advisor will notify the student
of the approval/disapproval of the substitution request.
Dropping and Adding Courses
Students may want to drop/add courses for a variety of reasons. Each student should discuss such
changes with his/her advisor prior to processing such a request as changes may disrupt the
student’s graduation plan. Please see the Undergraduate Catalog Academic Calendar for last days
to process add/drops.
Evaluation of Faculty/Courses
Faculty/course evaluations are available through the student’s portal during the last week of a
scheduled class. This information is used to garner student opinion and input regarding the
quality of their education. Evaluation forms are completed without identifying information and
are not released to the faculty until after final grades are posted. Faculty/course evaluations are
utilized to improve teaching effectiveness. Lindenwood University is open to informal, ongoing
student feedback and students are encouraged to dialogue with faculty on a regular basis as to
course/teaching effectiveness.
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Final Examinations
A final examination schedule is published each semester as all courses are required to have a final
exam/graded activity during Finals Week. Students are to consult this schedule prior to making
travel plans as course instructors’ are not required to provide alternative final exam plans to
accommodate a student conflict. Students may petition to reschedule final exams only if three or
more exams are scheduled on the same day or if two or more exams are scheduled at the same
time. Students are to consult with their advisor as to the petition process.
Grievance Procedure
The Lindenwood University policy regarding grievances indicates that students who wish to
appeal a final grade will first contact the course instructor. If the matter cannot be resolved at that
level, the student may appeal in writing to the Dean of the School of Human Services, for social
work courses(or the Dean of the School in which the course took place) and then to the Provost of
the University. Further information regarding the process may be found in the current catalog.
Honors
Many social work courses can be available for honors credit for those students officially admitted
to the Honors Program. Students are to contact the course instructor at the beginning of the
semester to negotiate the parameters of obtaining honors credit. Refer to the current
undergraduate catalog for description of the Honors College (p. 25, 2013-2014).
Independent Study
The option of an independent study is available only when a compelling academic reason exists.
Students who request approval must complete an Independent Study Proposal that is to be signed
by the course instructor and the Dean of the School of Human Services. Refer to the current
undergraduate catalog for further information.
Professional Performance Policy
The Social Work Department has implemented a professional performance policy because the
faculty have a professional obligation to ensure graduates are not only academically prepared, but
also emotionally and ethically equipped for the demades of generalist social work practice and
graduate study. Please see the appendix for the standards of professional behavior, and the policy
documents.
Registration
Information regarding course registration is available at Academic Services, in the undergraduate
catalog and on the Lindenwood University web site (such as the semester schedule, registration
schedule, etc…) Students already admitted to Lindenwood are expected to schedule an
appointment with her/his advisor prior to being eligible to register on-line. This meeting is for
guidance and to ensure that the student is making appropriate progress toward completion of the
Social Work major. Students then typically register themselves for classes through their portal.
Service Learning Honors
Students who acquire 500 hours of qualified community services will receive a designation on
their transcript to recognize their achievement. Refer to the current undergraduate catalog (p. 25
2013-2014) for further information. Social work majors are able to count their field education
hours (observation, service learning, and practicum) towards this goal.
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Social Welfare Minor
Non-majors may declare a minor in Social Welfare. Requirements for an undergraduate minor in
Social Welfare are 21 hours of coursework including: SW 11000, SW 24000, and SW 32000;
PS 15500 or PS 15600; and nine additional hours in other Social Work (SW) courses.
Student Rights
The Lindenwood University Social Work Program creates a partnership between the student and
the university based on mutual respect and trust. As a Social Work major, you have certain rights
and responsibilities:
You have the right to:
 Participate and give feedback in decision-making activities about the program
 Evaluate your social work courses and instructors
 Provide input through meetings with the Social Work Department Chair as
scheduled every fall/spring semester at a majors meeting
 Have input into the selection of your field practicum assignment
 Provide feedback about school policies and procedures as well as the behavior of
faculty and staff members per the appropriate university channels
 Write a formal grievance and expect a response in a timely manner
 Hear opinions expressed by speakers from outside the LU community
 Organize via the Social Work Student Alliance and appropriate LU channels
 Be free from discrimination and harassment
You have the responsibility to:
 Be an active learner by:
 Attending class
 Being prepared for class including completing assigned readings
 Participating in class discussions and activities
 Completing the assigned coursework and submitting it as required and as
scheduled
 Notifying the instructor promptly when circumstances affecting your
success in the class occur
 Seeking help from the instructor when you are struggling with the course
material
 Studying and reviewing materials
 Meet with your advisor and enroll in classes in a timely fashion
 Be actively involved with local social service agencies
 Be familiar with the policies and procedures as outlined in:
 The NASW Code of Ethics
 SW Student Handbook
 Field Practicum Manual
 LU Undergraduate Catalog
 LU Student Handbook
 Ask questions when you do not know from those who do or those who can find
out, your advisor is a good place to start
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Student Responsibilities in Courses
Students who have questions about attendance or course requirements are responsible for asking
for clarification from the course instructor at the beginning of the semester. If a student is absent
when information regarding class attendance and assignments is given or fails to understand the
requirements, the student is not excused from the terms of the requirements and is subject to the
consequences as outlined in the course syllabus. Course syllabi are available for ongoing student
access in the course instructor’s file on either blackboard or pccommon, or both.
Termination Review Process
The Department of Social Work faculty has a professional obligation to the Social Work
profession and consumers to make reasonable efforts to ensure that its graduates are academically
prepared, but also emotionally and ethically equipped for the demands of generalist social work
practice and graduate study. As a result, students who present inappropriate behavior that
seriously jeopardizes progress in the academic program and/or causes serious questions of
professional aptitude and ability, or those who engage in behavior that violates the National
Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics will be evaluated by faculty to determine
if they are capable of continuing the course of study, and if so, what additional steps should be
taken to ensure that they are prepared for generalist social work practice. A non-voluntary student
review will be conducted with the Social Work Department Chair, the student, and her/his advisor
to determine the course of action for students that are identified as at-risk. Please see the NASW
Code of Ethics in Appendix A.
Students need to know and understand that Social Work Faculty periodically discuss student
progression toward graduation. Any concerns or challenges facing a particular student, raised by
faculty, will be part of these discussions. The goal of the Social Work faculty is twofold: first to
help the student succeed and secondly to the profession to graduate academically, emotionally,
and ethically prepared students. If a student is deemed to be a poor fit for Social Work, the advisor
will work with the student to come up with a graduation plan toward another major.
Transfer Credit
Students transferring from an accredited university or university of higher education should
submit official transcripts from each university attended to the Admissions Office along with the
application for admission. An evaluation of transfer credit will be made by the registrar only after
all official documents have been received. Credits accepted in transfer do not affect the student’s
grade point average at Lindenwood University. Refer to the current undergraduate catalog.
Transfer students who wish to have required courses taught by the Social Work Program waived
must meet the following conditions through the normal policy exemption process:
a. presents a course outline/syllabus demonstrating equivalence for the course that the
student wishes to waive. That course must have been completed at a social work program
accredited by CSWE at the time the course was completed and the student must have
earned a grade of D or better in the course.
b. presents a transcript identifying a course formally approved through a Transfer
Articulation Agreement with the Lindenwood University Social Work Program. The
student must have earned a grade of D or better in that course.
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Voluntary Student Review Process
When students experience academic difficulties that delay progress toward graduation or
jeopardize continuation in the Social Work Program, they may request a review of their academic
status. This review will be held with the Social Work Department Chair, the student and her/his
advisor. The purpose of this review is to explore alternatives available to the student. It is
expected that the review will only be requested after students have attempted to work through the
difficulty with the appropriate faculty member and/or their advisor.
Withdrawal from the University
Prior to withdrawal, students should meet with his/her advisor to pursue options to resolve
difficulties. However, students who still wish to withdraw from Lindenwood University must go
to Academic Services to officially begin the process. Students should be aware that early or
unauthorized withdrawal may significantly affect a student’s academic record, tuition and fee
payments and student financial aid.
Withdrawals
The Lindenwood University policy for course withdrawals may be found in the current
undergraduate catalog. The social work faculty advisor can assist student with the process.
Nonacademic Policies
Sexual Harassment
It is the Lindenwood University policy that sexual harassment will not be tolerated and that
disciplinary action up to and including termination will be imposed on employees engaging in
such actions. Disciplinary action up to and including expulsion may be imposed on students
engaging in such action. (See LU Student Handbook)
If you are aware of sexual harassment, or feel you are a victim of harassment, contact one of the
University officers listed: Dr. James Evans, President; Dr. Jann Weitzel, Provost and Dean of
Faculty; Dr. John Oldani, Dean of Campus Life; Dr. Michael Mason, Chaplain; or Julie M.
Mueller, Chief Operating Officer.
Resources for Students
Campus Life is the hub of support services and activities for all enrolled Lindenwood Students.
Offices are located in Evans Commons. In addition some student services like housing are
located on the 4th floor of the Spellmann Center.
Housing—application, assignment, trouble-shooting, and concerns are addressed in the
Residential Life Office, Spellmann Center
ID Cards—issued at student check-in; lost cards are to be reported to Campus Life
Career Counseling—availability of the DISCOVER program for career assessment and
counseling in addition to placement services including resume writing and job openings.
Contact personnel in the Career Services Office in the Spellmann Center.
Emergency Services—crisis intervention information and referral services are available
for mental health needs and emergency resources. The Student Counseling and Resource
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Center can be reached at Office: 636-949-4528. These offices are located in the Cultural
Center. The Student Health Center (physical concerns) is located in the Spellmann Center.
Disability Services—the coordinator of campus accessibility services acts to ensure the
accessibility of programs and assists and supports students with disabilities. The campus
accessibility coordinator is located in the Memorial Arts Building (MAB) 210.
Computers—labs are located in multiple locations on campus including the Spellmann
Center, Butler Library and Young Hall.
Books—textbooks are listed on the LU website and may be ordered from the Book
Exchange.
Campus Culture
Student Activities/Organizations
Lindenwood University believes in the importance of co-curricular involvement in activities as a
valuable supplement to classroom learning in the total educational process. The Office of Student
Activities (located in Evans Common) serves as a coordination center on campus and works with
student organizations in facilitating their activities and projects. Approximately 71 student
organizations exist to meet the needs of students—Greek organizations, athletic and intramural
activities, honor societies, religious groups and program-sponsored associations. See the Student
Handbook for a listing of all Student Organizations.
Social Work Student Alliance
The purpose of the Social Work Student Alliance (SWSA) is to promote the social work
profession as an important and positive field that deserves recognition through social work
education, community service, and campus awareness of social and political issues.
SWSA meets monthly to bring together the social work student body over common interests and
activities. Students are notified of meeting times for the semester via an email flyer and
announcement in major courses and posting on the social work bulletin board in MAB.
The organization hosts guest speakers from a variety of settings and graduate schools in social
work. Two primary service projects are completed in each of the fall and spring semesters.
SWSA is the voice of social work students on campus—questions, concerns, issues and problems
about the social work program are to be routed through this group. SWSA is assigned a Social
Work Faculty member as the organization advisor. Please see the Social Work Student Alliance
Constitution in Appendix A. Social Work majors are encouraged to participate in SWSA.
Financial Aid
Financial Assistance
Financial aid is available to all qualified students. Financial need may be met through a
combination of state, federal and institutional aid. The primary responsibility for paying the
student’s education expenses rests with the student and his/her family, and the university expects
both the student and his/her parent(s) to make a realistic contribution to meet these costs.
Financial aid is a supplement for those students and families who cannot afford the entire cost of a
university education. Please see the current catalog for information about scholarships, student
employment, loan programs, Veterans’ Benefits, and other types of state and federal financial aid.
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Appendix
NASW Code of Ethics
CSWE Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards
Social Work Program Admissions Forms
Social Work Program Advising Worksheet
Social Work Student Alliance Constitution
Social Work Department Professional Performance Policy
Social Work Standards of Professional Behavior
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Code of Ethics
of the National Association of Social Workers
Approved by the 1996 NASW Delegate Assembly and revised by the 1999 NASW Delegate Assembly
*Note the NASW code of ethics can also be found in the appendix of Social Work Practice Textbooks, or may be purchased in
a small book form from NASW press.
Preamble
The primary mission of the social work profession is to enhance human well-being and help meet the basic human
needs of all people, with particular attention to the needs and empowerment of people who are vulnerable,
oppressed, and living in poverty. A historic and defining feature of social work is the profession's focus on individual
well-being in a social context and the well-being of society. Fundamental to social work is attention to the
environmental forces that create, contribute to, and address problems in living.
Social workers promote social justice and social change with and on behalf of clients. "Clients" is used inclusively
to refer to individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. Social workers are sensitive to cultural and
ethnic diversity and strive to end discrimination, oppression, poverty, and other forms of social injustice. These
activities may be in the form of direct practice, community organizing, supervision, consultation, administration,
advocacy, social and political action, policy development and implementation, education, and research and
evaluation. Social workers seek to enhance the capacity of people to address their own needs. Social workers also
seek to promote the responsiveness of organizations, communities, and other social institutions to individuals'
needs and social problems.
The mission of the social work profession is rooted in a set of core values. These core values, embraced by social
workers throughout the profession's history, are the foundation of social work's unique purpose and perspective:

service

social justice

dignity and worth of the person

importance of human relationships


integrity
competence
This constellation of core values reflects what is unique to the social work profession. Core values, and the
principles that flow from them, must be balanced within the context and complexity of the human experience.
Purpose of the NASW Code of Ethics
Professional ethics are at the core of social work. The profession has an obligation to articulate its basic values,
ethical principles, and ethical standards. The NASW Code of Ethics sets forth these values, principles, and
standards to guide social workers' conduct. The Code is relevant to all social workers and social work students,
regardless of their professional functions, the settings in which they work, or the populations they serve.
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The NASW Code of Ethics serves six purposes:
1. The Code identifies core values on which social work's mission is based.
2. The Code summarizes broad ethical principles that reflect the profession's core values and establishes a
set of specific ethical standards that should be used to guide social work practice.
3. The Code is designed to help social workers identify relevant considerations when professional obligations
conflict or ethical uncertainties arise.
4. The Code provides ethical standards to which the general public can hold the social work profession
accountable.
5. The Code socializes practitioners new to the field to social work's mission, values, ethical principles, and
ethical standards.
6. The Code articulates standards that the social work profession itself can use to assess whether social
workers have engaged in unethical conduct. NASW has formal procedures to adjudicate ethics complaints
filed against its members.* In subscribing to this Code, social workers are required to cooperate in its
implementation, participate in NASW adjudication proceedings, and abide by any NASW disciplinary
rulings or sanctions based on it.
*For information on NASW adjudication procedures, see NASW Procedures for the Adjudication of Grievances.
The Code offers a set of values, principles, and standards to guide decision making and conduct when ethical
issues arise. It does not provide a set of rules that prescribe how social workers should act in all situations. Specific
applications of the Code must take into account the context in which it is being considered and the possibility of
conflicts among the Code's values, principles, and standards. Ethical responsibilities flow from all human
relationships, from the personal and familial to the social and professional.
Further, the NASW Code of Ethics does not specify which values, principles, and standards are most important
and ought to outweigh others in instances when they conflict. Reasonable differences of opinion can and do exist
among social workers with respect to the ways in which values, ethical principles, and ethical standards should be
rank ordered when they conflict. Ethical decision making in a given situation must apply the informed judgment of
the individual social worker and should also consider how the issues would be judged in a peer review process
where the ethical standards of the profession would be applied.
Ethical decision making is a process. There are many instances in social work where simple answers are not
available to resolve complex ethical issues. Social workers should take into consideration all the values, principles,
and standards in this Code that are relevant to any situation in which ethical judgment is warranted. Social workers'
decisions and actions should be consistent with the spirit as well as the letter of this Code.
In addition to this Code, there are many other sources of information about ethical thinking that may be useful.
Social workers should consider ethical theory and principles generally, social work theory and research, laws,
regulations, agency policies, and other relevant codes of ethics, recognizing that among codes of ethics social
workers should consider the NASW Code of Ethics as their primary source. Social workers also should be aware of
the impact on ethical decision making of their clients' and their own personal values and cultural and religious
beliefs and practices. They should be aware of any conflicts between personal and professional values and deal
with them responsibly. For additional guidance social workers should consult the relevant literature on professional
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ethics and ethical decision making and seek appropriate consultation when faced with ethical dilemmas. This may
involve consultation with an agency-based or social work organization's ethics committee, a regulatory body,
knowledgeable colleagues, supervisors, or legal counsel.
Instances may arise when social workers' ethical obligations conflict with agency policies or relevant laws or
regulations. When such conflicts occur, social workers must make a responsible effort to resolve the conflict in a
manner that is consistent with the values, principles, and standards expressed in this Code. If a reasonable
resolution of the conflict does not appear possible, social workers should seek proper consultation before making a
decision.
The NASW Code of Ethics is to be used by NASW and by individuals, agencies, organizations, and bodies (such
as licensing and regulatory boards, professional liability insurance providers, courts of law, agency boards of
directors, government agencies, and other professional groups) that choose to adopt it or use it as a frame of
reference. Violation of standards in this Code does not automatically imply legal liability or violation of the law.
Such determination can only be made in the context of legal and judicial proceedings. Alleged violations of the
Code would be subject to a peer review process. Such processes are generally separate from legal or
administrative procedures and insulated from legal review or proceedings to allow the profession to counsel and
discipline its own members.
A code of ethics cannot guarantee ethical behavior. Moreover, a code of ethics cannot resolve all ethical issues or
disputes or capture the richness and complexity involved in striving to make responsible choices within a moral
community. Rather, a code of ethics sets forth values, ethical principles, and ethical standards to which
professionals aspire and by which their actions can be judged. Social workers' ethical behavior should result from
their personal commitment to engage in ethical practice. The NASW Code of Ethics reflects the commitment of all
social workers to uphold the profession's values and to act ethically. Principles and standards must be applied by
individuals of good character who discern moral questions and, in good faith, seek to make reliable ethical
judgments.
Ethical Principles
The following broad ethical principles are based on social work's core values of service, social justice, dignity and
worth of the person, importance of human relationships, integrity, and competence. These principles set forth
ideals to which all social workers should aspire.
Value: Service
Ethical Principle: Social workers' primary goal is to help people in need and to address social problems.
Social workers elevate service to others above self-interest. Social workers draw on their knowledge, values, and
skills to help people in need and to address social problems. Social workers are encouraged to volunteer some
portion of their professional skills with no expectation of significant financial return (pro bono service).
Value: Social Justice
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Ethical Principle: Social workers challenge social injustice.
Social workers pursue social change, particularly with and on behalf of vulnerable and oppressed individuals and
groups of people. Social workers' social change efforts are focused primarily on issues of poverty, unemployment,
discrimination, and other forms of social injustice. These activities seek to promote sensitivity to and knowledge
about oppression and cultural and ethnic diversity. Social workers strive to ensure access to needed information,
services, and resources; equality of opportunity; and meaningful participation in decision making for all people.
Value: Dignity and Worth of the Person
Ethical Principle: Social workers respect the inherent dignity and worth of the person.
Social workers treat each person in a caring and respectful fashion, mindful of individual differences and cultural
and ethnic diversity. Social workers promote clients' socially responsible self-determination. Social workers seek to
enhance clients' capacity and opportunity to change and to address their own needs. Social workers are cognizant
of their dual responsibility to clients and to the broader society. They seek to resolve conflicts between clients'
interests and the broader society's interests in a socially responsible manner consistent with the values, ethical
principles, and ethical standards of the profession.
Value: Importance of Human Relationships
Ethical Principle: Social workers recognize the central importance of human relationships.
Social workers understand that relationships between and among people are an important vehicle for change.
Social workers engage people as partners in the helping process. Social workers seek to strengthen relationships
among people in a purposeful effort to promote, restore, maintain, and enhance the well-being of individuals,
families, social groups, organizations, and communities.
Value: Integrity
Ethical Principle: Social workers behave in a trustworthy manner.
Social workers are continually aware of the profession's mission, values, ethical principles, and ethical standards
and practice in a manner consistent with them. Social workers act honestly and responsibly and promote ethical
practices on the part of the organizations with which they are affiliated.
Value: Competence
Ethical Principle: Social workers practice within their areas of competence and develop and enhance their
professional expertise.
Social workers continually strive to increase their professional knowledge and skills and to apply them in practice.
Social workers should aspire to contribute to the knowledge base of the profession.
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Ethical Standards
The following ethical standards are relevant to the professional activities of all social workers. These standards
concern (1) social workers' ethical responsibilities to clients, (2) social workers' ethical responsibilities to
colleagues, (3) social workers' ethical responsibilities in practice settings, (4) social workers' ethical responsibilities
as professionals, (5) social workers' ethical responsibilities to the social work profession, and (6) social workers'
ethical responsibilities to the broader society.
Some of the standards that follow are enforceable guidelines for professional conduct, and some are aspirational.
The extent to which each standard is enforceable is a matter of professional judgment to be exercised by those
responsible for reviewing alleged violations of ethical standards.
1. Social Workers' Ethical Responsibilities to Clients
1.01 Commitment to Clients
Social workers' primary responsibility is to promote the well-being of clients. In general, clients' interests are
primary. However, social workers' responsibility to the larger society or specific legal obligations may on limited
occasions supersede the loyalty owed clients, and clients should be so advised. (Examples include when a social
worker is required by law to report that a client has abused a child or has threatened to harm self or others.)
1.02 Self-Determination
Social workers respect and promote the right of clients to self-determination and assist clients in their efforts to
identify and clarify their goals. Social workers may limit clients' right to self-determination when, in the social
workers' professional judgment, clients' actions or potential actions pose a serious, foreseeable, and imminent risk
to themselves or others.
1.03 Informed Consent
(a) Social workers should provide services to clients only in the context of a professional relationship based, when
appropriate, on valid informed consent. Social workers should use clear and understandable language to inform
clients of the purpose of the services, risks related to the services, limits to services because of the requirements of
a third-party payer, relevant costs, reasonable alternatives, clients' right to refuse or withdraw consent, and the time
frame covered by the consent. Social workers should provide clients with an opportunity to ask questions.
(b) In instances when clients are not literate or have difficulty understanding the primary language used in the
practice setting, social workers should take steps to ensure clients' comprehension. This may include providing
clients with a detailed verbal explanation or arranging for a qualified interpreter or translator whenever possible.
(c) In instances when clients lack the capacity to provide informed consent, social workers should protect clients'
interests by seeking permission from an appropriate third party, informing clients consistent with the clients' level of
understanding. In such instances social workers should seek to ensure that the third party acts in a manner
consistent with clients' wishes and interests. Social workers should take reasonable steps to enhance such clients'
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ability to give informed consent.
(d) In instances when clients are receiving services involuntarily, social workers should provide information about
the nature and extent of services and about the extent of clients' right to refuse service.
(e) Social workers who provide services via electronic media (such as computer, telephone, radio, and television)
should inform recipients of the limitations and risks associated with such services.
(f) Social workers should obtain clients' informed consent before audio taping or videotaping clients or permitting
observation of services to clients by a third party.
1.04 Competence
(a) Social workers should provide services and represent themselves as competent only within the boundaries of
their education, training, license, certification, consultation received, supervised experience, or other relevant
professional experience.
(b) Social workers should provide services in substantive areas or use intervention techniques or approaches that
are new to them only after engaging in appropriate study, training, consultation, and supervision from people who
are competent in those interventions or techniques.
(c) When generally recognized standards do not exist with respect to an emerging area of practice, social workers
should exercise careful judgment and take responsible steps (including appropriate education, research, training,
consultation, and supervision) to ensure the competence of their work and to protect clients from harm.
1.05 Cultural Competence and Social Diversity
(a) Social workers should understand culture and its function in human behavior and society, recognizing the
strengths that exist in all cultures.
(b) Social workers should have a knowledge base of their clients' cultures and be able to demonstrate competence
in the provision of services that are sensitive to clients' cultures and to differences among people and cultural
groups.
(c) Social workers should obtain education about and seek to understand the nature of social diversity and
oppression with respect to race, ethnicity, national origin, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, political
belief, religion, and mental or physical disability.
1.06 Conflicts of Interest
(a) Social workers should be alert to and avoid conflicts of interest that interfere with the exercise of professional
discretion and impartial judgment. Social workers should inform clients when a real or potential conflict of interest
arises and take reasonable steps to resolve the issue in a manner that makes the clients' interests primary and
protects clients' interests to the greatest extent possible. In some cases, protecting clients' interests may require
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termination of the professional relationship with proper referral of the client.
(b) Social workers should not take unfair advantage of any professional relationship or exploit others to further their
personal, religious, political, or business interests.
(c) Social workers should not engage in dual or multiple relationships with clients or former clients in which there is
a risk of exploitation or potential harm to the client. In instances when dual or multiple relationships are
unavoidable, social workers should take steps to protect clients and are responsible for setting clear, appropriate,
and culturally sensitive boundaries. (Dual or multiple relationships occur when social workers relate to clients in
more than one relationship, whether professional, social, or business. Dual or multiple relationships can occur
simultaneously or consecutively.)
(d) When social workers provide services to two or more people who have a relationship with each other (for
example, couples, family members), social workers should clarify with all parties which individuals will be
considered clients and the nature of social workers' professional obligations to the various individuals who are
receiving services. Social workers who anticipate a conflict of interest among the individuals receiving services or
who anticipate having to perform in potentially conflicting roles (for example, when a social worker is asked to
testify in a child custody dispute or divorce proceedings involving clients) should clarify their role with the parties
involved and take appropriate action to minimize any conflict of interest.
1.07 Privacy and Confidentiality
(a) Social workers should respect clients' right to privacy. Social workers should not solicit private information from
clients unless it is essential to providing services or conducting social work evaluation or research. Once private
information is shared, standards of confidentiality apply.
(b) Social workers may disclose confidential information when appropriate with valid consent from a client or a
person legally authorized to consent on behalf of a client.
(c) Social workers should protect the confidentiality of all information obtained in the course of professional service,
except for compelling professional reasons. The general expectation that social workers will keep information
confidential does not apply when disclosure is necessary to prevent serious, foreseeable, and imminent harm to a
client or other identifiable person. In all instances, social workers should disclose the least amount of confidential
information necessary to achieve the desired purpose; only information that is directly relevant to the purpose for
which the disclosure is made should be revealed.
(d) Social workers should inform clients, to the extent possible, about the disclosure of confidential information and
the potential consequences, when feasible before the disclosure is made. This applies whether social workers
disclose confidential information on the basis of a legal requirement or client consent.
(e) Social workers should discuss with clients and other interested parties the nature of confidentiality and
limitations of clients' right to confidentiality. Social workers should review with client’s circumstances where
confidential information may be requested and where disclosure of confidential information may be legally required.
This discussion should occur as soon as possible in the social worker-client relationship and as needed throughout
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the course of the relationship.
(f) When social workers provide counseling services to families, couples, or groups, social workers should seek
agreement among the parties involved concerning each individual's right to confidentiality and obligation to
preserve the confidentiality of information shared by others. Social workers should inform participants in family,
couples, or group counseling that social workers cannot guarantee that all participants will honor such agreements.
(g) Social workers should inform clients involved in family, couples, marital, or group counseling of the social
worker's, employer's, and agency's policy concerning the social worker's disclosure of confidential information
among the parties involved in the counseling.
(h) Social workers should not disclose confidential information to third-party payers unless clients have authorized
such disclosure.
(i) Social workers should not discuss confidential information in any setting unless privacy can be ensured. Social
workers should not discuss confidential information in public or semipublic areas such as hallways, waiting rooms,
elevators, and restaurants.
(j) Social workers should protect the confidentiality of clients during legal proceedings to the extent permitted by
law. When a court of law or other legally authorized body orders social workers to disclose confidential or privileged
information without a client's consent and such disclosure could cause harm to the client, social workers should
request that the court withdraw the order or limit the order as narrowly as possible or maintain the records under
seal, unavailable for public inspection.
(k) Social workers should protect the confidentiality of clients when responding to requests from members of the
media.
(l) Social workers should protect the confidentiality of clients' written and electronic records and other sensitive
information. Social workers should take reasonable steps to ensure that clients' records are stored in a secure
location and that clients' records are not available to others who are not authorized to have access.
(m) Social workers should take precautions to ensure and maintain the confidentiality of information transmitted to
other parties through the use of computers, electronic mail, facsimile machines, telephones and telephone
answering machines, and other electronic or computer technology. Disclosure of identifying information should be
avoided whenever possible.
(n) Social workers should transfer or dispose of clients' records in a manner that protects clients' confidentiality and
is consistent with state statutes governing records and social work licensure.
(o) Social workers should take reasonable precautions to protect client confidentiality in the event of the social
worker's termination of practice, incapacitation, or death.
(p) Social workers should not disclose identifying information when discussing clients for teaching or training
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purposes unless the client has consented to disclosure of confidential information.
(q) Social workers should not disclose identifying information when discussing clients with consultants unless the
client has consented to disclosure of confidential information or there is a compelling need for such disclosure.
(r) Social workers should protect the confidentiality of deceased clients consistent with the preceding standards.
1.08 Access to Records
(a) Social workers should provide clients with reasonable access to records concerning the clients. Social workers
who are concerned that clients' access to their records could cause serious misunderstanding or harm to the client
should provide assistance in interpreting the records and consultation with the client regarding the records. Social
workers should limit clients' access to their records, or portions of their records, only in exceptional circumstances
when there is compelling evidence that such access would cause serious harm to the client. Both clients' requests
and the rationale for withholding some or all of the record should be documented in clients' files.
(b) When providing clients with access to their records, social workers should take steps to protect the
confidentiality of other individuals identified or discussed in such records.
1.09 Sexual Relationships
(a) Social workers should under no circumstances engage in sexual activities or sexual contact with current clients,
whether such contact is consensual or forced.
(b) Social workers should not engage in sexual activities or sexual contact with clients' relatives or other individuals
with whom clients maintain a close personal relationship when there is a risk of exploitation or potential harm to the
client. Sexual activity or sexual contact with clients' relatives or other individuals with whom clients maintain a
personal relationship has the potential to be harmful to the client and may make it difficult for the social worker and
client to maintain appropriate professional boundaries. Social workers--not their clients, their clients' relatives, or
other individuals with whom the client maintains a personal relationship--assume the full burden for setting clear,
appropriate, and culturally sensitive boundaries.
(c) Social workers should not engage in sexual activities or sexual contact with former clients because of the
potential for harm to the client. If social workers engage in conduct contrary to this prohibition or claim that an
exception to this prohibition is warranted because of extraordinary circumstances, it is social workers--not their
clients--who assume the full burden of demonstrating that the former client has not been exploited, coerced, or
manipulated, intentionally or unintentionally.
(d) Social workers should not provide clinical services to individuals with whom they have had a prior sexual
relationship. Providing clinical services to a former sexual partner has the potential to be harmful to the individual
and is likely to make it difficult for the social worker and individual to maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
1.10 Physical Contact
Social workers should not engage in physical contact with clients when there is a possibility of psychological harm
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to the client as a result of the contact (such as cradling or caressing clients). Social workers who engage in
appropriate physical contact with clients are responsible for setting clear, appropriate, and culturally sensitive
boundaries that govern such physical contact.
1.11 Sexual Harassment
Social workers should not sexually harass clients. Sexual harassment includes sexual advances, sexual
solicitation, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
1.12 Derogatory Language
Social workers should not use derogatory language in their written or verbal communications to or about clients.
Social workers should use accurate and respectful language in all communications to and about clients.
1.13 Payment for Services
(a) When setting fees, social workers should ensure that the fees are fair, reasonable, and commensurate with the
services performed. Consideration should be given to clients' ability to pay.
(b) Social workers should avoid accepting goods or services from clients as payment for professional services.
Bartering arrangements, particularly involving services, create the potential for conflicts of interest, exploitation, and
inappropriate boundaries in social workers' relationships with clients. Social workers should explore and may
participate in bartering only in very limited circumstances when it can be demonstrated that such arrangements are
an accepted practice among professionals in the local community, considered to be essential for the provision of
services, negotiated without coercion, and entered into at the client's initiative and with the client's informed
consent. Social workers who accept goods or services from clients as payment for professional services assume
the full burden of demonstrating that this arrangement will not be detrimental to the client or the professional
relationship.
(c) Social workers should not solicit a private fee or other remuneration for providing services to clients who are
entitled to such available services through the social workers' employer or agency.
1.14 Clients Who Lack Decision-Making Capacity
When social workers act on behalf of clients who lack the capacity to make informed decisions, social workers
should take reasonable steps to safeguard the interests and rights of those clients.
1.15 Interruption of Services
Social workers should make reasonable efforts to ensure continuity of services in the event that services are
interrupted by factors such as unavailability, relocation, illness, disability, or death.
1.16 Termination of Services
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(a) Social workers should terminate services to clients and professional relationships with them when such services
and relationships are no longer required or no longer serve the clients' needs or interests.
(b) Social workers should take reasonable steps to avoid abandoning clients who are still in need of services.
Social workers should withdraw services precipitously only under unusual circumstances, giving careful
consideration to all factors in the situation and taking care to minimize possible adverse effects. Social workers
should assist in making appropriate arrangements for continuation of services when necessary.
(c) Social workers in fee-for-service settings may terminate services to clients who are not paying an overdue
balance if the financial contractual arrangements have been made clear to the client, if the client does not pose an
imminent danger to self or others, and if the clinical and other consequences of the current nonpayment have been
addressed and discussed with the client.
(d) Social workers should not terminate services to pursue a social, financial, or sexual relationship with a client.
(e) Social workers who anticipate the termination or interruption of services to clients should notify clients promptly
and seek the transfer, referral, or continuation of services in relation to the clients' needs and preferences.
(f) Social workers who are leaving an employment setting should inform clients of appropriate options for the
continuation of services and of the benefits and risks of the options.
2. Social Workers' Ethical Responsibilities to Colleagues
2.01 Respect
(a) Social workers should treat colleagues with respect and should represent accurately and fairly the
qualifications, views, and obligations of colleagues.
(b) Social workers should avoid unwarranted negative criticism of colleagues in communications with clients or with
other professionals. Unwarranted negative criticism may include demeaning comments that refer to colleagues'
level of competence or to individuals' attributes such as race, ethnicity, national origin, color, sex, sexual
orientation, age, marital status, political belief, religion, and mental or physical disability.
(c) Social workers should cooperate with social work colleagues and with colleagues of other professions when
such cooperation serves the well-being of clients.
2.02 Confidentiality
Social workers should respect confidential information shared by colleagues in the course of their professional
relationships and transactions. Social workers should ensure that such colleagues understand social workers'
obligation to respect confidentiality and any exceptions related to it.
2.03 Interdisciplinary Collaboration
(a) Social workers who are members of an interdisciplinary team should participate in and contribute to decisions
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that affect the well-being of clients by drawing on the perspectives, values, and experiences of the social work
profession. Professional and ethical obligations of the interdisciplinary team as a whole and of its individual
members should be clearly established.
(b) Social workers for whom a team decision raises ethical concerns should attempt to resolve the disagreement
through appropriate channels. If the disagreement cannot be resolved, social workers should pursue other avenues
to address their concerns consistent with client well-being.
2.04 Disputes Involving Colleagues
(a) Social workers should not take advantage of a dispute between a colleague and an employer to obtain a
position or otherwise advance the social workers' own interests.
(b) Social workers should not exploit clients in disputes with colleagues or engage clients in any inappropriate
discussion of conflicts between social workers and their colleagues.
2.05 Consultation
(a) Social workers should seek the advice and counsel of colleagues whenever such consultation is in the best
interests of clients.
(b) Social workers should keep themselves informed about colleagues' areas of expertise and competencies.
Social workers should seek consultation only from colleagues who have demonstrated knowledge, expertise, and
competence related to the subject of the consultation.
(c) When consulting with colleagues about clients, social workers should disclose the least amount of information
necessary to achieve the purposes of the consultation.
2.06 Referral for Services
(a) Social workers should refer clients to other professionals when the other professionals' specialized knowledge
or expertise is needed to serve clients fully or when social workers believe that they are not being effective or
making reasonable progress with clients and that additional service is required.
(b) Social workers who refer clients to other professionals should take appropriate steps to facilitate an orderly
transfer of responsibility. Social workers who refer clients to other professionals should disclose, with clients'
consent, all pertinent information to the new service providers.
(c) Social workers are prohibited from giving or receiving payment for a referral when no professional service is
provided by the referring social worker.
2.07 Sexual Relationships
(a) Social workers who function as supervisors or educators should not engage in sexual activities or contact with
supervisees, students, trainees, or other colleagues over whom they exercise professional authority.
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(b) Social workers should avoid engaging in sexual relationships with colleagues when there is potential for a
conflict of interest. Social workers who become involved in, or anticipate becoming involved in, a sexual
relationship with a colleague have a duty to transfer professional responsibilities, when necessary, to avoid a
conflict of interest.
2.08 Sexual Harassment
Social workers should not sexually harass supervisees, students, trainees, or colleagues. Sexual harassment
includes sexual advances, sexual solicitation, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a
sexual nature.
2.09 Impairment of Colleagues
(a) Social workers who have direct knowledge of a social work colleague's impairment that is due to personal
problems, psychosocial distress, substance abuse, or mental health difficulties and that interferes with practice
effectiveness should consult with that colleague when feasible and assist the colleague in taking remedial action.
(b) Social workers who believe that a social work colleague's impairment interferes with practice effectiveness and
that the colleague has not taken adequate steps to address the impairment should take action through appropriate
channels established by employers, agencies, NASW, licensing and regulatory bodies, and other professional
organizations.
2.10 Incompetence of Colleagues
(a) Social workers who have direct knowledge of a social work colleague's incompetence should consult with that
colleague when feasible and assist the colleague in taking remedial action.
(b) Social workers who believe that a social work colleague is incompetent and has not taken adequate steps to
address the incompetence should take action through appropriate channels established by employers, agencies,
NASW, licensing and regulatory bodies, and other professional organizations.
2.11 Unethical Conduct of Colleagues
(a) Social workers should take adequate measures to discourage, prevent, expose, and correct the unethical
conduct of colleagues.
(b) Social workers should be knowledgeable about established policies and procedures for handling concerns
about colleagues' unethical behavior. Social workers should be familiar with national, state, and local procedures
for handling ethics complaints. These include policies and procedures created by NASW, licensing and regulatory
bodies, employers, agencies, and other professional organizations.
(c) Social workers who believe that a colleague has acted unethically should seek resolution by discussing their
concerns with the colleague when feasible and when such discussion is likely to be productive.
(d) When necessary, social workers who believe that a colleague has acted unethically should take action through
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appropriate formal channels (such as contacting a state licensing board or regulatory body, an NASW committee
on inquiry, or other professional ethics committees).
(e) Social workers should defend and assist colleagues who are unjustly charged with unethical conduct.
3. Social Workers' Ethical Responsibilities in Practice Settings
3.01 Supervision and Consultation
(a) Social workers who provide supervision or consultation should have the necessary knowledge and skill to
supervise or consult appropriately and should do so only within their areas of knowledge and competence.
(b) Social workers who provide supervision or consultation are responsible for setting clear, appropriate, and
culturally sensitive boundaries.
(c) Social workers should not engage in any dual or multiple relationships with supervisees in which there is a risk
of exploitation of or potential harm to the supervisee.
(d) Social workers who provide supervision should evaluate supervisees' performance in a manner that is fair and
respectful.
3.02 Education and Training
(a) Social workers who function as educators, field supervisors for students, or trainers should provide instruction
only within their areas of knowledge and competence and should provide instruction based on the most current
information and knowledge available in the profession.
(b) Social workers who function as educators or field instructors for students should evaluate students'
performance in a manner that is fair and respectful.
(c) Social workers who function as educators or field supervisors for students should take reasonable steps to
ensure that clients are routinely informed when services are being provided by students.
(d) Social workers who function as educators or field supervisors for students should not engage in any dual or
multiple relationships with students in which there is a risk of exploitation or potential harm to the student. Social
work educators and field supervisors are responsible for setting clear, appropriate, and culturally sensitive
boundaries.
3.03 Performance Evaluation
Social workers who have responsibility for evaluating the performance of others should fulfill such responsibility in
a fair and considerate manner and on the basis of clearly stated criteria.
3.04 Client Records
(a) Social workers should take reasonable steps to ensure that documentation in records is accurate and reflects
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the services provided.
(b) Social workers should include sufficient and timely documentation in records to facilitate the delivery of services
and to ensure continuity of services provided to clients in the future.
(c) Social workers' documentation should protect clients' privacy to the extent that is possible and appropriate and
should include only information that is directly relevant to the delivery of services.
(d) Social workers should store records following the termination of services to ensure reasonable future access.
Records should be maintained for the number of years required by state statutes or relevant contracts.
3.05 Billing
Social workers should establish and maintain billing practices that accurately reflect the nature and extent of
services provided and that identify who provided the service in the practice setting.
3.06 Client Transfer
(a) When an individual who is receiving services from another agency or colleague contacts a social worker for
services, the social worker should carefully consider the client's needs before agreeing to provide services. To
minimize possible confusion and conflict, social workers should discuss with potential clients the nature of the
clients' current relationship with other service providers and the implications, including possible benefits or risks, of
entering into a relationship with a new service provider.
(b) If a new client has been served by another agency or colleague, social workers should discuss with the client
whether consultation with the previous service provider is in the client's best interest.
3.07 Administration
(a) Social work administrators should advocate within and outside their agencies for adequate resources to meet
clients' needs.
(b) Social workers should advocate for resource allocation procedures that are open and fair. When not all clients'
needs can be met, an allocation procedure should be developed that is nondiscriminatory and based on
appropriate and consistently applied principles.
(c) Social workers who are administrators should take reasonable steps to ensure that adequate agency or
organizational resources are available to provide appropriate staff supervision.
(d) Social work administrators should take reasonable steps to ensure that the working environment for which they
are responsible is consistent with and encourages compliance with the NASW Code of Ethics. Social work
administrators should take reasonable steps to eliminate any conditions in their organizations that violate, interfere
with, or discourage compliance with the Code.
3.08 Continuing Education and Staff Development
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Social work administrators and supervisors should take reasonable steps to provide or arrange for continuing
education and staff development for all staff for whom they are responsible. Continuing education and staff
development should address current knowledge and emerging developments related to social work practice and
ethics.
3.09 Commitments to Employers
(a) Social workers generally should adhere to commitments made to employers and employing organizations.
(b) Social workers should work to improve employing agencies' policies and procedures and the efficiency and
effectiveness of their services.
(c) Social workers should take reasonable steps to ensure that employers are aware of social workers' ethical
obligations as set forth in the NASW Code of Ethics and of the implications of those obligations for social work
practice.
(d) Social workers should not allow an employing organization's policies, procedures, regulations, or administrative
orders to interfere with their ethical practice of social work. Social workers should take reasonable steps to ensure
that their employing organizations' practices are consistent with the NASW Code of Ethics.
(e) Social workers should act to prevent and eliminate discrimination in the employing organization's work
assignments and in its employment policies and practices.
(f) Social workers should accept employment or arrange student field placements only in organizations that
exercise fair personnel practices.
(g) Social workers should be diligent stewards of the resources of their employing organizations, wisely conserving
funds where appropriate and never misappropriating funds or using them for unintended purposes.
3.10 Labor-Management Disputes
(a) Social workers may engage in organized action, including the formation of and participation in labor unions, to
improve services to clients and working conditions.
(b) The actions of social workers who are involved in labor-management disputes, job actions, or labor strikes
should be guided by the profession's values, ethical principles, and ethical standards. Reasonable differences of
opinion exist among social workers concerning their primary obligation as professionals during an actual or
threatened labor strike or job action. Social workers should carefully examine relevant issues and their possible
impact on clients before deciding on a course of action.
4. Social Workers' Ethical Responsibilities as Professionals
4.01 Competence
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(a) Social workers should accept responsibility or employment only on the basis of existing competence or the
intention to acquire the necessary competence.
(b) Social workers should strive to become and remain proficient in professional practice and the performance of
professional functions. Social workers should critically examine and keep current with emerging knowledge
relevant to social work. Social workers should routinely review the professional literature and participate in
continuing education relevant to social work practice and social work ethics.
(c) Social workers should base practice on recognized knowledge, including empirically based knowledge, relevant
to social work and social work ethics.
4.02 Discrimination
Social workers should not practice, condone, facilitate, or collaborate with any form of discrimination on the basis of
race, ethnicity, national origin, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, political belief, religion, or mental
or physical disability.
4.03 Private Conduct
Social workers should not permit their private conduct to interfere with their ability to fulfill their professional
responsibilities.
4.04 Dishonesty, Fraud, and Deception
Social workers should not participate in, condone, or be associated with dishonesty, fraud, or deception.
4.05 Impairment
(a) Social workers should not allow their own personal problems, psychosocial distress, legal problems, substance
abuse, or mental health difficulties to interfere with their professional judgment and performance or to jeopardize
the best interests of people for whom they have a professional responsibility.
(b) Social workers whose personal problems, psychosocial distress, legal problems, substance abuse, or mental
health difficulties interfere with their professional judgment and performance should immediately seek consultation
and take appropriate remedial action by seeking professional help, making adjustments in workload, terminating
practice, or taking any other steps necessary to protect clients and others.
4.06 Misrepresentation
(a) Social workers should make clear distinctions between statements made and actions engaged in as a private
individual and as a representative of the social work profession, a professional social work organization, or the
social worker's employing agency.
(b) Social workers who speak on behalf of professional social work organizations should accurately represent the
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official and authorized positions of the organizations.
(c) Social workers should ensure that their representations to clients, agencies, and the public of professional
qualifications, credentials, education, competence, affiliations, services provided, or results to be achieved are
accurate. Social workers should claim only those relevant professional credentials they actually possess and take
steps to correct any inaccuracies or misrepresentations of their credentials by others.
4.07 Solicitations
(a) Social workers should not engage in uninvited solicitation of potential clients who, because of their
circumstances, are vulnerable to undue influence, manipulation, or coercion.
(b) Social workers should not engage in solicitation of testimonial endorsements (including solicitation of consent to
use a client's prior statement as a testimonial endorsement) from current clients or from other people who, because
of their particular circumstances, are vulnerable to undue influence.
4.08 Acknowledging Credit
(a) Social workers should take responsibility and credit, including authorship credit, only for work they have actually
performed and to which they have contributed.
(b) Social workers should honestly acknowledge the work of and the contributions made by others.
5. Social Workers' Ethical Responsibilities to the Social Work Profession
5.01 Integrity of the Profession
(a) Social workers should work toward the maintenance and promotion of high standards of practice.
(b) Social workers should uphold and advance the values, ethics, knowledge, and mission of the profession. Social
workers should protect, enhance, and improve the integrity of the profession through appropriate study and
research, active discussion, and responsible criticism of the profession.
(c) Social workers should contribute time and professional expertise to activities that promote respect for the value,
integrity, and competence of the social work profession. These activities may include teaching, research,
consultation, service, legislative testimony, presentations in the community, and participation in their professional
organizations.
(d) Social workers should contribute to the knowledge base of social work and share with colleagues their
knowledge related to practice, research, and ethics. Social workers should seek to con-tribute to the profession's
literature and to share their knowledge at professional meetings and conferences.
(e) Social workers should act to prevent the unauthorized and unqualified practice of social work.
5.02 Evaluation and Research
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(a) Social workers should monitor and evaluate policies, the implementation of programs, and practice
interventions.
(b) Social workers should promote and facilitate evaluation and research to contribute to the development of
knowledge.
(c) Social workers should critically examine and keep current with emerging knowledge relevant to social work and
fully use evaluation and research evidence in their professional practice.
(d) Social workers engaged in evaluation or research should carefully consider possible consequences and should
follow guidelines developed for the protection of evaluation and research participants. Appropriate institutional
review boards should be consulted.
(e) Social workers engaged in evaluation or research should obtain voluntary and written informed consent from
participants, when appropriate, without any implied or actual deprivation or penalty for refusal to participate; without
undue inducement to participate; and with due regard for participants' well-being, privacy, and dignity. Informed
consent should include information about the nature, extent, and duration of the participation requested and
disclosure of the risks and benefits of participation in the research.
(f) When evaluation or research participants are incapable of giving informed consent, social workers should
provide an appropriate explanation to the participants, obtain the participants' assent to the extent they are able,
and obtain written consent from an appropriate proxy.
(g) Social workers should never design or conduct evaluation or research that does not use consent procedures,
such as certain forms of naturalistic observation and archival research, unless rigorous and responsible review of
the research has found it to be justified because of its prospective scientific, educational, or applied value and
unless equally effective alternative procedures that do not involve waiver of consent are not feasible.
(h) Social workers should inform participants of their right to withdraw from evaluation and research at any time
without penalty.
(i) Social workers should take appropriate steps to ensure that participants in evaluation and research have access
to appropriate supportive services.
(j) Social workers engaged in evaluation or research should protect participants from unwarranted physical or
mental distress, harm, danger, or deprivation.
(k) Social workers engaged in the evaluation of services should discuss collected information only for professional
purposes and only with people professionally concerned with this information.
(l) Social workers engaged in evaluation or research should ensure the anonymity or confidentiality of participants
and of the data obtained from them. Social workers should inform participants of any limits of confidentiality, the
measures that will be taken to ensure confidentiality, and when any records containing research data will be
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destroyed.
(m) Social workers who report evaluation and research results should protect participants' confidentiality by
omitting identifying information unless proper consent has been obtained authorizing disclosure.
(n) Social workers should report evaluation and research findings accurately. They should not fabricate or falsify
results and should take steps to correct any errors later found in published data using standard publication
methods.
(o) Social workers engaged in evaluation or research should be alert to and avoid conflicts of interest and dual
relationships with participants, should inform participants when a real or potential conflict of interest arises, and
should take steps to resolve the issue in a manner that makes participants' interests primary.
(p) Social workers should educate themselves, their students, and their colleagues about responsible research
practices.
6. Social Workers' Ethical Responsibilities to the Broader Society
6.01 Social Welfare
Social workers should promote the general welfare of society, from local to global levels, and the development of
people, their communities, and their environments. Social workers should advocate for living conditions conducive
to the fulfillment of basic human needs and should promote social, economic, political, and cultural values and
institutions that are compatible with the realization of social justice.
6.02 Public Participation
Social workers should facilitate informed participation by the public in shaping social policies and institutions.
6.03 Public Emergencies
Social workers should provide appropriate professional services in public emergencies to the greatest extent
possible.
6.04 Social and Political Action
(a) Social workers should engage in social and political action that seeks to ensure that all people have equal
access to the resources, employment, services, and opportunities they require to meet their basic human needs
and to develop fully. Social workers should be aware of the impact of the political arena on practice and should
advocate for changes in policy and legislation to improve social conditions in order to meet basic human needs and
promote social justice.
(b) Social workers should act to expand choice and opportunity for all people, with special regard for vulnerable,
disadvantaged, oppressed, and exploited people and groups.
(c) Social workers should promote conditions that encourage respect for cultural and social diversity within the
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United States and globally. Social workers should promote policies and practices that demonstrate respect for
difference, support the expansion of cultural knowledge and resources, advocate for programs and institutions that
demonstrate cultural competence, and promote policies that safeguard the rights of and confirm equity and social
justice for all people.
(d) Social workers should act to prevent and eliminate domination of, exploitation of, and discrimination against any
person, group, or class on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital
status, political belief, religion, or mental or physical disability.
750 First Street, NE • Suite 700 • Washington, DC 20002-4241
©2006 National Association of Social Workers. All Rights Reserved.
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43
Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards
Copyright © 2008, Council on Social Work Education, Inc. All rights reserved.
Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards
The purpose of the social work profession is to promote human and community well-being.
Guided by a person and environment construct, a global perspective, respect for human diversity,
and knowledge based on scientific inquiry, social work’s purpose is actualized through its quest
for social and economic justice, the prevention of conditions that limit human rights, the
elimination of poverty, and the enhancement of the quality of life for all persons.
Social work educators serve the profession through their teaching, scholarship, and service. Social
work education—at the baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels—shapes the profession’s
future through the education of competent professionals, the generation of knowledge, and the
exercise of leadership within the professional community.
The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) uses the Educational Policy and Accreditation
Standards (EPAS) to accredit baccalaureate- and master’s-level social work programs. EPAS
supports academic excellence by establishing thresholds for professional competence. It permits
programs to use traditional and emerging models of curriculum design by balancing requirements
that promote comparability across programs with a level of flexibility that encourages programs to
differentiate.
EPAS describe four features of an integrated curriculum design: (1) program mission and goals;
(2) explicit curriculum; (3) implicit curriculum; and (4) assessment. The Educational Policy and
Accreditation Standards are conceptually linked. Educational Policy describes each curriculum
feature. Accreditation Standards (in italics) are derived from the Educational Policy and specify
the requirements used to develop and maintain an accredited social work program at the
baccalaureate (B) or master’s (M) level.
Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) CORE COMPETENCIES
Competency-based education is an outcome performance approach to curriculum design.
Competencies are measurable practice behaviors that are comprised of knowledge, values, and
skills. The goal of the outcome approach is to demonstrate the integration and application of the
competencies in practice with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities.
Competencies are measurable practice behaviors that are comprised of knowledge, values, and
skills.
The explicit curriculum constitutes the program’s formal educational structure and includes the
courses and the curriculum.
The ten core competencies are listed below: The LU social work program also uses these ten core
competencies and the programs objectives. The number identifies the core competency and the
bullet points identify the practice behaviors under that competency.
1.
Student identifies as a professional social worker and conducts self accordingly
• advocate for client access to the services of social work;
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•
•
•
•
practice personal reflection and self-correction to assure continual professional
development;
attend to professional roles and boundaries;
demonstrate professional demeanor in behavior, appearance, and communication;
engage in career-long learning;
2.
Student applies social work ethical principles to guide professional practice
• recognize and manage personal values in a way that allows professional values to guide
practice;
• make ethical decisions by applying standards of the NASW Code of Ethics
apply strategies of ethical reasoning to arrive at principled decisions.
3.
Student applies critical thinking to inform and communicate professional judgments
• distinguish, appraise, and integrate multiple sources of knowledge, including
research based knowledge, and practice wisdom;
• analyze models of assessment, prevention, intervention, and evaluation
• demonstrate effective oral and written communication in working with individuals,
families, groups, organizations, communities, and colleagues.
4.
Student engages diversity and difference in practice
• recognize the extent to which a culture’s structures and values may
oppress, marginalize, alienate, or create or enhance privilege and power;
• gain sufficient self-awareness to eliminate the influence of personal biases and values
in working with diverse groups;
• view themselves as learners and engage those with whom they work as informants.
5.
Student advances human rights and social and economic justice
• understand the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination;
• advocate for human rights and social and economic justice
• engage in practices that advance social and economic justice.
6.
Student engages in research-informed practice and practice-informed research
• use practice experience to inform scientific inquiry and
• use research evidence to inform practice.
7.
Student applies knowledge of human behavior and the social environment
• critique and apply knowledge to understand person and environment
8.
Student engages in policy practice to advance social and economic well-being and to
deliver effective social work services
• collaborate with colleagues and clients for effective policy action.
9.
Student responds to contexts that shape practice
• continuously discover, appraise, and attend to changing locales, populations, scientific
and technological developments, and emerging societal trends to provide relevant
services; and
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•
10.
provide leadership in promoting sustainable changes in service delivery and practice
to improve the quality of social services
Student engages, assesses, intervenes, and evaluates individuals, families, groups,
organizations and communities
a. Engagement
• substantively and affectively prepare for action with individuals, families, groups,
organizations, and communities;
• use empathy and other interpersonal skills; and
• develop a mutually agreed-on focus of work and desired outcomes.
b. Assessment
• collect, organize, and interpret client data;
• assess client strengths and limitations
• develop mutually agreed-on intervention goals and objectives; and
• select appropriate intervention strategies.
c. Intervention
• initiate actions to achieve organizational goals;
• implement prevention interventions that enhance client capacities;
• help clients resolve problems;
• negotiate, mediate, and advocate for clients; and
• facilitate transitions and endings
d. Evaluation
critically analyze, monitor and evaluate interventions
Copyright © 2008, Council on Social Work Education, Inc. All rights reserved.
Revised March 27, 2010
*For a complete guide refer to: http://www.cswe.org/Accreditation/2008EPASDescription.aspx
Or consult with your Social Work advisor for clarification.
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46
Lindenwood University Department of Social Work
Admission to the Major Procedure
Students wishing to be considered for full admission to the Major of Social Work need to complete
the following:
1. Obtain the application cover sheet from his/her advisor. The student is to
complete the personal information and have his/her advisor verify the
Pre-application Requirements section.
2. The student is to retain this cover sheet to be attached to the front of
her/his application.
3. The student is to write a 3-page typewritten personal statement addressing his/her reasons
for wanting to be a social worker. (12 pt font, standard margins)
4. The student is to obtain two written references in support of her/his application for full
admission to the major of social work:
 one from a non-social work academic source
 one preferably from a professional in the field of human services; when not
available, a second reference from a non-social work academic source.
5. The student is to submit the application cover sheet with the personal statement and two
references letters together (in that order) to her/his advisor.
6. The advisor will notify the student if the application is complete. If complete, the advisor
will sign the cover sheet. The completed application packet is to be turned in by the
student to the department chair. An interview with a member of the social work faculty
and a member of the Social Work Program Advisory Council will be scheduled. The
student will be advised of the time and the place for the meeting.
7. The social work department chair will notify the student of the disposition of his/her
application for acceptance into the social work program. If not approved, the social work
department chair will notify the student of the reasons and advise student of alternatives
which can include reapplication and a plan for improvement.
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47
Lindenwood University
Application for Admission to the Major of Social Work



Student is asked to fill out this checklist and have advisor review and sign. Information can be obtained by
reviewing your own transcript.
This application is due on _______________by 5:00 pm to Department Chair: ____________________________
No late applications will be accepted. Failure on your part to meet this deadline may impede your progress toward
graduation.
Student: _______________________
Date: _____________
_________
Completion of a minimum of 30 credits
GPA of 2.0 or better in those courses
_________
Completion of the following courses with an average GPA of 2.0 or better:
SOC 10200—Final Grade _______
PSY 10000—Final Grade _______
BIO 10700—Final Grade _______ Average GPA ____/4.0
_________
Completion of the following social work courses with an average GPA of 2.5 or
better:
SW 10000—Final Grade _______
SW 11000—Final Grade _______
SW 10500—Final Grade _______
SW 24000—Final Grade _______
SW 28000—Final Grade _______ Average GPA _____/4.0
_________
Submission of two reference letters of support of the application for admission:
Non-social work reference from _______________________________________
Professional in the human services field from______________________________
_________
Submission of a satisfactory personal statement per the attached outline
_________
Completion of an admissions interview with a member of each the Social Work
Faculty and the Social Work Advisory Council on:
_________
Completion/verification of the Declaration of Major with LU Academic
Services
_________
Successfully have completed ENG 15000 and ENG 17000 and passed the WPA
_____ Reviewed by Social Work Faculty Advisor:_____________________________________
_____Reviewed by Social Work Department Chair: ___________________________________
_____Completion of an admissions interview: Date ________________
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48
Lindenwood University
Application for Admission to the Major of Social Work—Personal Statement
The Personal Statement is to be a Word document typewritten, in 12-point font, one inch
margins, double spaced and approximately 3 pages in length. The following information
must be included:
I. Addressing Core Competencies (10) total
Using one of the three core competencies (listed below): describe your
personal fit with the Lindenwood University Department of Social Work Program
and the profession of social work.
 Professional Identity
o 2.1.1 Identify as a professional social worker and conduct oneself
accordingly.
 Ethical Practice
o 2.1.2 Apply social work ethical principles to guide professional
practice.
 Diversity in Practice
o 2.1.4 Engage diversity and difference in practice.
II. Why do you want to be a social worker?
What personal/meaningful experiences have you had that draws you to social
work? Who have been your personal mentors and models? What has your
coursework so far meant to you? What experiences have you had in social
service agencies including employment, volunteering and observation?
III. What do you know—how will you grow?
What are the strengths/assets that you bring to our program? What do you
need to know more about?
Note: This statement is used to help determine your fit for the professional practice of Social
Work. It is important that you carefully proof, revise, and submit a statement that is
professional in appearance, grammatically correct, and captures the essence of who you are.
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49
Lindenwood University
Application for full Admission to the Major of Social Work—Admission Interview
SAMPLE
Student: ________________________
Date of interview: ______________
This applicant:
1. Demonstrates the communication skills necessary for entry into social work education:
1
Strongly disagree
2
Disagree
3
Neither agree/nor disagree
4
Agree
5
Strongly agree
2. Displays appropriate professionalism, demeanor and commitment for the social work
profession:
1
Strongly disagree
2
Disagree
3
Neither agree/nor disagree
4
Agree
5
Strongly agree
3. Conveys a self-awareness and goodness of fit with the demands of social work education and
practice:
1
Strongly disagree
2
Disagree
3
Neither agree/nor disagree
4
Agree
5
Strongly agree
4. Understands the themes of the Lindenwood University Department of Social Work:
1
Strongly disagree
2
Disagree
3
Neither agree/nor disagree
4
Agree
5
Strongly agree
5. presents an understanding of the ethics of the social work profession:
1
Strongly disagree
2
Disagree
3
Neither agree/nor disagree
Total Points:
________/25 point maximum
4
Agree
5
Strongly agree
_______%
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50
________ Recommend
for admission
________
Do not recommend for admission
Comments:
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Interviewed by:
____Advisory Council Member_________________________________
____SW Faculty Member
_________________________________
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51
(BSW) BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK
2013-2014
Student_________________________
Expected Graduation_____________
General Education Requirements
LUL
Or meets criteria to be waived:
Semester Taken ___________
English Composition: 6 hours
_______ Hours completed as of _________
Strategies for Univ Writing ENG15000
Semester Taken ____________
Grade _____
Research & Argumentation ENG17000
Prerequisite: ENG 15000
Semester Taken ____________
Grade _____
Humanities: 9 hours
Grade _____
_______ Hours completed as of _________
Literature—6 hours
Prerequisite: ENG 17000 with a “C” or better
Course ENG___________________Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ENG___________________Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Philosophy (PHL) or Religion (REL) —3 hours
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Fine Arts:
3 hours
_______ Hours completed as of _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Civilization: 9 hours
World History HIS 10000--3 hrs
_______ Hours completed as of _________
Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
2 Cross-cultural (CC) courses or two semesters of a Foreign Language—6 hours
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
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52
Social Sciences:
PS 15500 or 15600
9 hours
_______ Hours completed as of _________
Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
Political Science American Government: The Nation or The States
Sociology
SOC 10200
Psychology
PSY 10000
Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
Natural Science & Mathematics:
10-11 hours
_______ Hours completed as of _________
*Placement exam required before taking Math courses
Basic Statistics MTH 14100
Semester Taken ____________Grade _________
“C” or better in MTH 05100 or MTH 11000 or passed placement test allowing MTH 14100
Sciences—Humand Biology and one course from either Earth or Physical Science with lab
Human Biology BIO 10700
Semester Taken ___________ Grade _________
Earth or Physical Science w/ Lab
Semester Taken ___________ Grade __________
Communications: 3 hours
_______ Hours completed as of _________
Intercultural Communication SW 10000
Semester Taken (noted below)___ Grade _________
Social Work Degree Requirements
Intercultural Communication (SW 10000)
Semester Taken __________Grade ____
also counts for GE-COM
Social Service Agency Observation (SW 10500) Semester Taken __________Grade ____
Prerequisite: SW 11000
Introduction to Social Work (SW 11000)
Semester Taken __________Grade ____
Human Diversity and Social Justice (SW 24000) Semester Taken __________Grade ____
Human Behavior in the Social Environment I
(SW 27000)
Semester Taken __________Grade ____
Prerequisites: SW 11000, PSY 10000 & BIO 10700
Human Behavior in the Social Environment II
(SW 28000) Prerequisite: SW 27000
Semester Taken __________Grade ____
*Acceptance to the Social Work Major: Date _________ *WPA passed: Date ____________
Service Learning (SW 36000)
Prerequisites: SW11000 & SW 10500
Revised 8-02-2013
Semester Taken __________Grade ____
53
Social Work Courses to take after acceptance to the SW major:
Social Work Practice I (SW 31000)
Prerequisites: SW11000 & SW 28000
Semester Taken __________Grade ____
Social Work Practice II (SW 31100)
Prerequisite: SW 31000
Semester Taken __________Grade ____
Social Work Practice III (SW 31200)
Prerequisite: SW 31100
Semester Taken __________Grade ____
Social Welfare Policy and Services I (SW 32000) Semester Taken __________Grade ____
Prerequisites: ENG 17000 (“C”or better), PS15500 or PS15600 & SW 11000
Intro to Social Research Methods (SW 32500)
Prerequisite: SW 11000 & MTH 14100
Semester Taken __________Grade ____
Social Welfare Policy and Services II (SW 42100)Semester Taken __________Grade ____
Prerequisite: SW 32000
*Acceptance into field: Date _______________
Field Practicum (SW 45000)
Prerequisite: SW 36000 and permission of Dean
Semester Taken __________Grade ____
at ____________________________________________________
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54
DOUBLE MAJOR/MINOR IN _________________________________
Required Courses:
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Course ______________________ Semester Taken ______________ Grade _________
Revised 8-02-2013
55
30000 Level Course Requirement or above (University requirement - 42 hours)
SW 31000 ____________________Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
SW 31100____________________ Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
SW 31200 ____________________Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
SW 32000 ____________________Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
SW 32500 ____________________Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
SW 36000 ____________________Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
SW 42100 ____________________Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
SW 45000 ___________________ Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
Course ______________________Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
Course ______________________Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
Course ______________________Semester Taken ______________
Grade _________
Graduation
Completed a minimum of 128 hours ____ Graduation Application completed_________
Requirements met for Double Major/Minor in __________________________
Overall GPA _________________
Social Work GPA __________
Total Credit Hours ____________
Honors/Distinctions:_____________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Post-Graduation
Employed by/job title:
____________________________________________________________________________
Graduate School/Program:
_____________________________________________________________________________
Revised 8-02-2013
56
The Constitution of the Social Work Student Alliance
Article I—Name of the Organization
The name of this organization shall be the Social Work Student Alliance (SWSA)
Article II—Purpose
The purpose of this organization is to promote the Social Work profession as an important and positive field that
deserves recognition through Social Work education, community service, and campus awareness of social and political
issues.
Article III—Membership and Voting Privileges
Membership in this organization shall be open to anyone regardless of race, color, gender, creed, religion, age, ancestry,
national origin, disability, sexual orientation, pregnancy, political affiliation, marital or parental status, veteran status, or
arrest or conviction record who:
A. is a recognized and enrolled student of Lindenwood University.
B. agrees to accept and adhere to the purpose, Constitution, and by-laws of said organization.
C. voting
1. Voting members are those that are current majors in Social Work.
2. Semi-nonvoting members are those that are not majors, but are interested in the purpose of this
organization. These members cannot vote on curriculum or departmental issues. They also cannot
run for office.
Article IV—Officers
Section I—Duties and Responsibilities of Officers
The elected officers of said organization shall be:
A. President—-to be the official representative of the organization at all necessary meetings and
functions; to chair all the general meetings and executive meetings; to coordinate all committees
and components to maximize efficiency of the organization.
B. Vice-President--to assist the President in all ways needed and necessary; to be an official
representative of the organization in the President’s absence
C. Secretary-Treasurer--to handle all financial matters and transactions of the organization; to
oversee the fundraising committee and to take minutes at all general and executive meetings; to be
responsible for all the organization’s outgoing and incoming correspondence; to keep records of
membership and of member’s basic information
D. LSGA Representative--to represent the organization at the LU Student Government meetings
and vote in the interest of SWSA; to report to SWSA the business of the student government; if a
representative cannot attend a meeting, an Executive Committee member may go in her/his place.
Section II—Election of Officers
Members of the organization shall elect the officers from the eligible candidates for each office. All officers must
be Social Work majors, have a 2.25 GPA and be in good academic standing with the Social Work department.
Section III—Term of Office
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57
The terms of the office shall be for one academic year at LU. Elections shall be held in April for the coming
academic school year. Winning representatives (determined by a simple majority of those in attendance at the
April meeting) shall take office after the Annual Executive Committee meeting during the first week of May
Section IV—Attendance and Accessibility
Special condition of the offices: Officers will attend all meetings as expected and be readily accessible to the rest
of the Executive Committee. In case of a necessary absence, it will be assumed that another Executive
Committee member will fulfill the expected duties of the post.
Section V—Removal from Office
Any officer who violates the rights, privileges, or responsibilities of his or her office as set forth in this
constitution may be removed from office by a majority vote of the members in a meeting, provided that the
body has been given a minimum of one week prior notice.
Article V—Meeting Times
Regular meeting of SWSA shall be held once per month or at such other times as decided upon by more than
half of the members at a previous meeting and/ or upon the recommendation of the Executive Committee.
Article VI—Amendments to the SWSA Constitution
This constitution may be amended by a three-fourths majority vote by those present at any regular meeting or a special
meeting of this chapter called for that purpose, provided that a copy of proposed amendment(s) be given to each member
at the meeting preceding the one in which the amendment(s) are to be voted on.
By-Laws:
1.
Committees: Under the By-Laws, all functioning committees shall be standing committees responsible to the
SWSA’s body.
The present functioning committees are:
Executive—The purpose of this committee shall be the administrative oversight of SWSA.
Membership shall include all current officers, past presidents and the faculty advisor.
Fundraising—The purpose of this committee shall be to raise monies to be donated to social service
programs and for the simple operation of the organization.
Community Services—The purpose of this committee shall be providing volunteer services to the
community and provide Social Work majors with volunteer experience.
Article VIII—Faculty Advisor
Faculty Advisor: shall be selected from the Social Work Faculty who volunteers for this position. There shall be one.
Functions:
A. provide continuity between outgoing and incoming officers.
B. hold regular meetings with the Executive Committee to discuss its plans for the group
C. keep the best interest of both the organization and the university in mind
D. attend all SWSA’s activities, giving special priority to the group meetings
E. ensures that the organization complies with university policy.
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SOCIAL WORK DEPARTMENT
Professional Performance Policy
The Social Work Department faculty has a professional obligation to the social work
profession to ensure that its graduates are not only academically prepared, but also
emotionally and ethically equipped for the demands of generalist social work practice and
graduate study. As a result, students who present behavior that seriously jeopardizes progress
in the program and/or causes serious questions of professional aptitude and ability, or engage
in behavior that violates the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics,
will be evaluated by social work faculty to determine if they are capable of continuing the
course of study.
Students are informed through academic advising and in the student handbook that Social
Work faculty periodically discuss student progression toward graduation. Any concerns or
challenges facing a particular student, raised by faculty, will be part of these discussions.
Behaviors That Could Cause Concern
Examples of behaviors that are deemed as unprofessional include but are not limited to the
following:




Behaviors that are not in compliance with the NASW Code of Ethics, Core
Competencies and Practice Behaviors
Disrespectful communications with professors, staff, and peers
Behavior that substantially interferes with a student’s ability to follow LU
academic policies and conduct standards identified in the LU Student
Handbook, Social Work Student Handbook, and/or the Social Work Field
Practicum Manual.
Lying, cheating, or plagiarizing
Procedures
If a student’s academic and/or professional behavior(s) connotes concern among Social Work
faculty the following steps are taken:
1. SW faculty member meets with the student to discuss academic and/or professional
behavioral concerns. An email will be sent to the student requesting a meeting and
stating the concern. The meeting will occur at a verbal level with a discussion
about how to correct the issue. If it is corrected by the student nothing further will
occur at this point.
2. If the concern has not been satisfactorily corrected then the Social Work faculty
member, the student and an additional Social Work faculty member (generally the
advisor) will meet. Faculty will develop a written action plan with clearly written
goals, along with input and agreement from student, and a follow up date
scheduled for re-evaluation, is established. A recommendation to meet with the
Revised 8-02-2013
59
Student Academic and Support Services (SASS) or the Student Counseling and
Resource Center (SCRC) may be part of the plan.
3. At the follow up meeting if progress towards goal(s) is met, no further action is
required. The written action plan is filed in the advisor’s student file.
4. If progress towards goal(s) is not met then the entire Social Work faculty will meet
to discuss the concern. Actions include considering options for the student in line
with university policies. If the student is deemed to be a poor fit for social work,
the advisor may work with the student to develop a graduation plan toward another
major. Other options include re-taking a SW course, slowing down progression
toward graduation if it will enhance student success.
5. If the student is not satisfied with the result they would normally appeal the
decision to the Dean of the School of Human Services, however, in this case the
Dean is also a SW faculty member. If the student is in disagreement with the
faculty regarding the academic and or professional behavioral concern they may
appeal the decision of the SW faculty to the Associate Provost.
Resources
Be familiar with the policies and procedures as outlined in the following resources:
 The NASW Code of Ethics
 SW Student Handbook
 Field Practicum Manual
 LU Undergraduate Catalog
 LU Student Handbook
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60
Social Work Standards of Professional Behavior
Professional Behavior: Exhibits behaviors that are in compliance with Lindenwood University policies, Social
Work Program policies, NASW Code of Ethics, CSWE Core Competencies and Practice Behaviors and the laws of
the State of Missouri and the United States of America.
Appearance and general demeanor reflect a professional manner. Dress for your duties, for example an interview
would require different attire than for a regular class. Shows potential for responsible and accountable behavior by
knowing and practicing within the scope of social work, respecting others, being punctual and dependable,
prioritizing responsibilities, attending class regularly, being prepared for class, observing deadlines, completing
assignments on time, keeping appointments, and accepting supervision and suggestions in a positive manner. Is fully
present and participating during class. Works effectively with others, regardless of level of authority. Advocates for
him/herself in an appropriate and responsible manner and uses proper channels for conflict resolution. Shows a
willingness to receive and accept feedback and supervision in a positive manner, as well as use such feedback to
enhance professional development.
Self-Awareness: Exhibits knowledge of how one’s values, attitudes, beliefs, emotions and past experiences affect
thinking, behavior, and relationships. Is able to assess one’s own strengths, limitations, and suitability for
professional practice. Shows awareness of self and how one is perceived by others. Reflects on one’s own
limitations as they relate to professional capacities. Is willing to examine and change behavior when it interferes in
working with clients and other professionals.
Communication Skills: Demonstrates sufficient written and oral skills to comprehend information and
communicate ideas and feelings.
a) Written: Writes clearly, uses correct grammar and spelling, and applies appropriate writing style, including
APA referencing, appropriate source citation, and documentation. Demonstrates sufficient skills in written
English to understand content presented in the program and to complete adequately all written assignments.
b) Oral: Communicates effectively and sensitively with other students, faculty, staff, clients, and professionals.
Expresses ideas and feelings clearly and demonstrates a willingness and an ability to listen to others.
Demonstrates sufficient skills in spoken English to understand content presented in the program, to complete
adequately all oral assignments, and to meet the objectives of field placement experiences.
Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the interpersonal skills needed to relate effectively to other students, faculty,
staff, clients, and professions. Is able to fulfill the ethical obligations of the profession including abiding by the
NASW Code of Ethics. These include compassion, empathy, altruism, integrity, and demonstration of respect for and
consideration of others. Takes appropriate responsibility for own actions and considers the impact of these actions on
others. Is able to seek out advice when needed to address concerns.
Cognitive Skills: Exhibits sufficient knowledge of social work and clarity of thinking to process information and
apply it to appropriate situations in the classroom and field. Demonstrates grounding in relevant social, behavioral,
and biological science knowledge and research – including knowledge and skills in relationship building, data
gathering, assessment, intervention, and evaluation of practice. Demonstrates the ability to conceptualize and
integrate knowledge and apply that knowledge by professional practice.
Stress Management: Demonstrates ability to deal with current life stressors through the use of appropriate
coping mechanisms. Handles stress effectively by using appropriate self-care and developing supportive relationships
with colleagues, peers, and others.
Emotional and Mental Capacities: Uses sound judgment. Seeks and effectively uses help for medical or
emotional problems that may interfere with scholastic and professional performance. Engages in counseling or seeks
out support and help if personal problems, psychosocial distress, substance abuse, or mental health difficulties do any
of the following:
 Compromise scholastic performance
 Interfere with professional judgment and behavior
 Or jeopardize the best interests of those whom the social work student has a professional responsibility
(Refer to the NASW Code of Ethics)
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Professional Commitment: Exhibits a strong commitment to the goals of social work and to the ethical
standards of the profession, as specified in the NASW Code of Ethics. Demonstrates commitment to the essential
values of social work that includes the respect for the dignity and worth of every individual and his/her right to a just
share society’s resources (social justice).
Ethical Obligations: Adherence to NASW Code of Ethics














Disclosure of history of charges and/or convictions of an offense that is contrary to professional practice.
Systematic evaluation of clients and their situation in an unbiased, factual way.
Suspension of personal biases and imposition of values during interaction with others.
Understanding of another individual’s way of life and values.
Empathic communication and support of the client as a basis for a productive professional relationship.
Appreciation of the value of diversity.
Effective and nonjudgmental relation to and work with others who are different from oneself.
Appropriate service to all persons in need of assistance, regardless of the person’s age, class, race, religious
beliefs, gender, disability, sexual orientation, and/or value system.
No imposition of personal, religious, sexual and/or cultural values on clients.
Demonstration of respect for the rights of others.
Commitment to client’s rights to freedom of choice and self-determination.
Maintenance of confidentiality as it relates to human service, classroom activities, and field placement.
Demonstration of honesty and integrity by being truthful about background, experiences and qualifications;
doing one’s own work; giving credit for the ideas of others; and providing proper citation of source
materials.
Demonstration of clear, appropriate, and culturally sensitive boundaries. Does not sexually harass others;
make verbal or physical threats; become involved in sexual relationships with clients, supervisors, or faculty;
abuse others in physical, emotional, verbal, or sexual ways; or participate in dual relationships where
conflicts of interest may exist.
Adapted with permission from George Mason University professional policy statement, 2010
Revised 8-02-2013