The following objectives convey the skills, knowledge and ethical standards that are the focus of the BASW program.

Students will gain:

1. The ability to apply critical thinking skills within the context of professional social work.
2. An understanding of the value base of the profession and its ethical standards and principles, and practice accordingly.
3. An understanding of the forms and mechanisms of oppression and discrimination and the ability to apply strategies of advocacy and social change that advance social and economic justice.
4. Knowledge of the history of the social work profession and its contemporary structures and issues.
5. The knowledge and skills of generalist social work practice with systems of all sizes.
6. Knowledge and ability to apply theoretical frameworks supported by empirical evidence to understand individual development and behavior across the life span and the interactions among individuals and between individuals and families, groups, organizations, and communities.
7. The ability to analyze, formulate and influence social policies.
8. The ability to evaluate research studies, apply research findings to practice, and evaluate their own practice interventions.
9. The ability to use communications skills differentially across client populations, and other systems (e.g., colleagues, organizations, communities).
10. The ability to use supervision and consultation appropriate to social work practice.
11. The ability to function within the structure of organizations and service delivery systems and seek necessary change.
12. The ability to practice without discrimination and with respect, and with skills that reflect an understanding of diversity related to client age, class, color, culture, disability, ethnicity, family structure, gender, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation.
13. Knowledge of the social welfare needs, strengths, and resources in the Inland Empire.

Additional Program Objectives