Full Course Description List:

HUMN Courses

5 credits

The human services field provides rewarding and challenging situations as professionals support diverse populations in an effort to change the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Students in this course explore the profession and the role of a human services professional practitioner as a humanitarian in this increasingly diverse and complex world. As students explore the range of humanitarian efforts, they self-assess their own aspirations, abilities, skills, characteristics, ethics, and cultural identity in preparation for their future in the human services. Students also explore ethical issues that can arise when working in diverse cultures around the globe. Applying foundational concepts, students also investigate current trends in the field of human and humanitarian service.

Prerequisites

• HMNT 1001

5 semester credits

Adulthood represents a rich developmental experience including many significant life transitions. In this course, students explore the key theories, transitions, and applications of adult development. They examine the social, biological, and cognitive maturation processes that define development of adulthood into older age. Students engage in assignments designed to provide practical application of theories to specific transitions and topical issues, such as career changes, attachment and marital satisfaction, personality, retirement, and cognition. Applying concepts presented in the course, students discuss cross-cultural issues in development, emotional development, adult roles, memory, and physical aging.

Prerequisites

• PSYC 1001 or PSYC 1002 or PSYC 1003

5 credits

What drives people to do what they do? In this course students have the opportunity to answer this question as they explore basic theories of motivation and emotion. They also explore bodily needs, such as hunger, thirst, and sex, that drive people to action; concepts in motivation, such as achievement, altruism, and conflict; and concepts related to emotion, including happiness, hormonal influences, and mood. Students assess content and share different perspectives through peer discussions on related topics, such as sources of motivation, hunger and eating, need for power, extraversion, goals, and decision making.

5 credits

Individuals are often influenced by others and by the social situations in which they find themselves. Students in this course examine the basic concepts and applications of social psychology, including attitudes, beliefs, and behavior; stereotyping; prejudice and discrimination; interpersonal relationships; group behavior; and the effect of environmental stress on behavior. They also learn how bias can sway objective conclusions as well as how ethical factors influence research in social psychology. Students apply principles and theories presented in the course to case studies and situations in daily life, including instances of stereotyping and discrimination. They also use these theories to understand strategies for helping others and reducing aggressive behavior.

Prerequisites

• PSYC 1001 or PSYC 1002 or PSYC 1003

5 credits

Students in this course are introduced to the nature of addiction and the impairment in individuals who suffer from addictions. In this course, students review theories on substance disorders and approaches to identification, prevention, and treatment. Topics include historical perspectives, diagnoses, types of addictive behaviors, treatment, and current research.

5 credits

Human services professional practitioners must be able to demonstrate helping skills and approaches that lead to productive relationships with service users, no matter the context. These skills include basic communication skills, active listening, empathy, trust building, and cultural humility. Students in this course examine their existing skill set and then build on it through a series of written exercises, reflections, and interactive video-based responses to human services scenarios. They also receive instruction on holistic appraisal, collaborative advocacy, and goal setting as key activities in the helping relationship. The course culminates with students filming and evaluating themselves in the role of a practitioner engaging with a service user.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 1010 or HUMN 1020 or HUMN 1030

5 credits

How do people learn, and what strategies maximize learning? In this course, students have an introduction to the behavioral and cognitive bases of learning and memory. Students engage in contextual and application-based assignments, such as simulation lab work, focusing on classical and operant conditioning, cognitive theories of learning, and introductory concepts of memory. Students apply learning principles and concepts, such as social learning theory and locus of control, to real-world behavior and performance.

Prerequisites

PSYC 1001 or PSYC 1001A and PSYC 2000 (PSYC 2000 is only for BS in Psychology students)

Note: Any undergraduate student can enroll in this course, as long as the pre-req is met.

5 credits

Human services is a field that provides rewarding as well as challenging situations as professionals support a diverse range of clients in solving problems and working through difficult situations. Students in this course explore the historical development of the human services field, human services theories, the systems approach to human services, and the role of the human service professional. They examine a range of roles and areas of specialization available to those in the profession as well as related challenges, such as ethical and diversity issues when working with people in different populations. Applying foundational concepts, students also investigate trends in the field of human services, such as medical and mental health breakthroughs and changes in client populations.

5 credits

Students in this course are introduced to the nature of addictions and its impact on individuals, families, and society. The course includes an examination of historical and current theories of substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. Topics include an examination of the causes of addiction, types of addictive behaviors, treatment options, ethics, current research, and professional requirements for addiction professionals.

PSYC 1001 and PSYC 2000 (PSYC 2000 is only for BS in Psychology students)

Note: Any undergraduate student can enroll in this course, as long as the pre-req is met.

5 credits

Working with people with disabilities represents an exciting and evolving opportunity for human services professional practitioners. In this introductory course, students use their practitioner lens to explore disability in the context of community inclusion and human rights. Students examine and debunk common myths related to disabilities before going on to trace the history of the disability system, including the abuse and neglect that occurred in 20th-century institutions. Students research different types of disabilities and the characteristics, challenges, and abilities inherent in them. Applied assignments involving simulations, legislative advocacy, and outreach to nonprofit leaders highlight the role of human services professional practitioners as partners and advocates. Students can come away from the course with a foundation for continuing their disability studies.

5 credits

Working with an individual is only part of the human services professional practitioner's role. People with disabilities often have family members who support, grow, and learn alongside them. This course celebrates the human services professional practitioner as family partner. As such, students explore the family experience across the lifespan of the individual with disabilities, from diagnosis through transitions in services to adulthood and future planning. Throughout the course, students apply skills, strategies, and tools to two cases involving family members with different types of disabilities, family structures, and dynamics. They also become familiar with family-focused planning materials they can use in future practice.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 2015

5 credits

Human services professional practitioners must understand the communities in which they live and work, as well as the state of the financial and human assets and limitations of their organizations, in order to respond to needs and provide services. This course gives students a foundation in historical and sociological perspectives on urban environments and the people who inhabit them. Students trace demographic and economic shifts across time and explore wealth inequality. This background informs the needs and issues students will see every day as human services professional practitioners, no matter whether they practice in rural, urban, or suburban areas. Students then explore innovative solutions with which to address identified needs in their communities.

5 credits

In this course, students examine situational procedures and techniques necessary in defusing situations identified as crises. Students work toward gaining skills to evaluate crisis experiences by combining active listening with an understanding of crisis patterns. Through class activities, such as case studies and comparative analyses, they learn how to work through difficult emotional, social, and health crises. Students also assess concepts and share perspectives through peer discussion on related topics, such as intervention models and strategies; system crisis intervention; collaboration; countertransference; secondary traumatic stress disorder and vicarious trauma; burnout prevention; and referral resources.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 1010 or HUMN 1020 or HUMN 1030

5 credits

The focus of this course is learning a systematic, multidisciplinary approach to the assessment and interpretation of data collected from clients with addictions. The most current screening, assessment, and documentation approaches will be reviewed.

5 credits

Models and theories of addiction are covered, as well as various treatment approaches. Prevention in various settings is addressed, including the etiology, patterns, and risk factors of addiction, as well as strategies for prevention. Treatment methodology, treatment planning, goal setting, and evaluation are also addressed. The multicultural context of addiction and client diversity are included.

5 credits

This course is designed to provide students with practical skills for organizing and brokering community resources in the human services case manager role. Throughout the course, students work with diverse service users to develop a person-centered service plan. As such, they engage in needs assessment, goal setting, advocacy, and service coordination while also considering the ethical and legal responsibilities of the case management relationship. They then justify their plan based on the unique needs and sociocultural factors of the service user.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 1010 or HUMN 1020 or HUMN 1030
• HUMN 2007

5 credits

In the 21st century, human services professional practitioners must be adept at working with a diverse range of families to assess their needs and connect them with appropriate resources. In this course, students explore the skills needed to build relationships with families, as well as the cultural, ethical, and legal considerations inherent in those relationships. Students directly apply their knowledge and skills to family scenarios and ultimately generate an in-depth plan for one fictional family. Students also consider human services careers associated with children and families that they may work toward.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 1030
• HUMN 2007

5 credits

Using addictions screenings and assessments to understand the severity and nature of a service user's addiction is necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment. In this course, students explore how to conduct addictions screenings and assessments. Students also examine how to use the results to determine the appropriate level of care and to recommend referrals. In addition, students consider possible co-occurring issues, as well as the ethical, legal, and cultural considerations that arise during the screening and assessment process. 

PSYC 2014 or HUMN 2014

Note: Any undergraduate student can enroll in this course, as long as the pre-req is met.

5 credits

Students in this course explore proactive intervention strategies to prevent undesirable behaviors and promote goal behaviors in people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. While acknowledging reactive strategies, the course focuses on proactive strategies to manage behavior and support independence. Emphasis is placed on understanding why certain behaviors occur in order to appropriately move toward the goal behavior. Other topics include how to operationally define and measure behavior; how to identify antecedents, consequences, and functions of behavior; and how to use a person-centered approach when developing a behavior support plan. For the final project, students generate a behavior support plan based on a fictional case and consider methods for implementing, monitoring, and adapting the plan over time. 

Prerequisites

• HUMN 2016

5 credits

Learning to communicate in another language takes practice. American Sign Language is the language used by the Deaf and hard of hearing community. Students in this course have the opportunity to learn the basics of American Sign Language, including fingerspelling, ASL vocabulary, emergency signs, counting, and how to communicate everyday needs. Students also explore communication behavior, including facial grammar and body shifting. Students will examine the origins of sign language and develop an understanding of the Deaf community. 

5 credits

In this course, students explore how to create treatment plans for different types of addiction and treatment settings. As they create treatment plans, students identify problems based on the assessment results, write treatment goals and objectives, and develop evidence-based treatment interventions. Students also consider how to use person-centered and culturally responsive approaches to treatment planning and explore ethical and legal considerations relevant to the planning process.

PSYC 2014 or HUMN 2014

Note: Any undergraduate student can enroll in this course, as long as the pre-req is met.

5 credits

This course is designed to provide students with practical skills for organizing and brokering community resources for human service clients. This will include emphasis on needs assessment for different client communities, developing plans for comprehensive care services, and utilizing formal and informal networks to maximize client access to services. Emphasis will be placed on interagency coordination as well as human service community resource building to achieve success in service delivery.

5 credits

This course is designed to provide students with basic skills for directly interfacing with a diverse community of clients. This will include emphasis on active listening, paraphrasing and summarizing, and respecting clients' cultural backgrounds in all aspects of information gathering. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the roles of different types of interviews, and the differing functions of open or closed questions for addressing distinct problems in living and areas of need that clients present.

5 credits

Human service professionals engage clients with a variety of needs. How can students be certain, though, that their services are effective in preventing recidivism in a population of drug-addicted persons, or that they have provided the necessary life skills training for a homeless person to transition into the workplace? This course is designed to provide skills for community needs assessment, program development, design, implementation, and evaluation across a variety of human services domains. Specific focus will be given to planning quality measures that demonstrate a program's effectiveness to all key stakeholders.

Prerequisites

• PSYC 2010 or HUMN 1010 or HUMN 1020 or HUMN 1030

5 credits

The study of the brain and how it functions has contributed significantly to the understanding of how people react and adapt to their environments. In this course, students examine basic brain physiology and learn how the brain functions to control behavior. Students explore specific applications of brain structure to memory and attention, sensation and perception, development, socialization, motivation and emotion, and socialization. They apply concepts and theories about the brain to psychological health and well-being.

Prerequisites

• PSYC 1001 or PSYC 1002 or PSYC 1003

5 credits

Students in this course explore the definitions and methodologies of case management services. The course is designed to provide students with the most up-to-date research and clinical applications of services management in the practice of addictions counseling.

5 credits

In a world encumbered with conflict, tension, and injustice, strategies for building peace are essential. In this course, students assess theories and principles of conflict management and resolution. They examine and employ theories and applications of intergroup dynamics; principles and underlying philosophies of non-violence; and social science principles to understand conflict and promote peace. Students gain practical experience applying principles of peace building to proposing solutions for contemporary, individual, and social issues.

Prerequisites

• PSYC 1001 or PSYC 1002 or PSYC 1003

5 credits

Learning to work effectively with diverse individuals and communities requires a clear understanding of one's own culture, status, and power in society, as well as the values and beliefs of others. In this course, students recognize, reconstruct, and analyze the unique cultural setting out of which they themselves developed. Students then apply this self-awareness to their interactions, both within the course and in their personal and professional lives. Through directed journaling and applied assignments, students explore how to recognize bias, oppression, and power imbalances as they exist in our everyday lives and gain a broad understanding of the importance of cultural humility. Students leave the course with an action plan for how best to continue their own growth as well as apply their new understandings as social change agents engaged in multicultural practice.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 1010 or HUMN 1020 or HUMN 1030

5 credits

The ability to effectively respond to people in mental health and substance use crisis is especially important for professionals on the front lines of human services. In this course, students study how to identify the signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use disorders in adults. They then analyze and apply approaches to deescalate scenarios involving various mental health problems and contexts. By the end of the course, students have a set of guidelines to follow and referral resources to use in the practice of mental health crisis response in their own communities and workplaces.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 1010 or HUMN 1020 or HUMN 1030

5 credits

Case managers play an important role in helping service users access needed services and plan for their long-term recovery. In this course, students explore the core functions of case management: assessment, planning, linkage, monitoring, and advocacy. They apply what they learn about each function to an authentic case study about a service user who has an alcohol addiction. As they do so, they create service plan goals, make appropriate referrals, monitor and document progress, advocate for the service user, and create an aftercare plan. Throughout the course, students also examine ethical standards and laws that are relevant to case management functions, and they apply strategies to prevent substance use in their communities.

Prerequisites

PSYC 2014 or HUMN 2014

Note: Any undergraduate student can enroll in this course, as long as the pre-req is met.

5 credits

Human services professional practitioners who assist individuals and families in need of disability services must navigate complex federal, state, and local laws, as well as the regulations and policies that govern those who receive disability services. Students in this course explore the laws and policies that ensure equal access to services for those who have varying disabilities. Students examine legal cases, identify areas within disability services that require support and advocacy, and explore how this drives policy. Students examine the intersectionality of advocacy, policy, and disability law to help meet the needs of those who require disability services and those who work in the field of disabilities.

5 credits

Students in this course explore how groups and organizations are making a difference by serving the global community. Students examine the function, operation, and relationship between organizations that address global issues, such as disaster relief, HIV, hunger, education, women's rights, and healthcare; such organizations include intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Students examine the strategies and techniques that successful organizations use in responding to global challenges. They also consider current issues that have potential to become global crises, and they discuss the future of public service in the global community. Applying concepts of service and related governance issues, students complete a final research project on a major issue currently affecting the global society.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 1010 or HUMN 1020 or HUMN 1030

5 credits

Human services professional practitioners work in many different settings, such as schools, juvenile correctional facilities, and child welfare agencies, where they encounter children and adolescents in crisis. Therefore, practitioners must be prepared to apply appropriate interventions to help them feel safe and stable in the moment and cope with the crisis over time. In this course, students examine the signs and symptoms of mental health crises in children and adolescents compared to those in adults. They also apply psychological first aid and other non-clinical interventions to authentic case studies and role-play exercises that occur in the context of adjudication, family issues, human trafficking, and bullying. As they do so, students consider the unique ethical and legal issues related to working with children and adolescents in crisis as well as the parental issues that may arise.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 1030
• HUMN 2007

5 credits

By understanding the relationship between children's health, culture, and socioeconomic status, in addition to related trends and issues, professionals who work with school-age children are in a better position to address and respond to these issues and related challenges effectively. Education professionals in this course critically examine selected issues and trends related to school-age children, such as technology/media, bullying, gender, abuse prevention, drugs/alcohol, obesity/eating disorders, stress, peer relationships, and school success. They demonstrate their understanding of course concepts through various applications, including the creation of an informative brochure for the purpose of explaining topical issues on health and wellness to parents and other stakeholders.

5 credits

Physical changes and social pressures make adolescence a challenging time for many teens; therefore, it is important for professionals to be aware of current trends and critical issues that affect the mental and physical well-being of this age group. Education professionals in this course examine and discuss selected issues and trends related to adolescents, such as technology/media, cyber-bullying, gender, sexual orientation, drugs/alcohol, obesity/eating disorders, depression, self-injury, suicide, teenage pregnancy, and school success. Applying course concepts, education professionals engage in practical exercises, such as research analyses through which they explore the connections between topical issues and the larger world as they affect adolescents and their transition into adulthood.

5 credits

Planning and applying effective budgeting strategies are critical elements in managing corporate and government criminal justice organizations. In this course, students have the opportunity to gain fundamental skills for effective management while focusing on short- and long-term financial analysis as well as on policy and budget creation. They complete practical application assignments, focusing on issues of plan development, grant sources, and different tasks and challenges related to budgeting. Students also engage in discussions with peers on a variety of topics, such as the public and private budgets, strategies, financing, forecasting, and ethical issues related to public budgeting.

5 credits

In this course, students synthesize information and experiences gathered over the course of the Bachelor of Science in Human Services program. Students will identify a human service gap in their local area and develop a detailed proposal for addressing the needs of the client population who are affected. This will include a background literature review, description of the problem area and the history of the community's response, and a detailed plan for addressing the gap with attention given to multicultural considerations. In accordance with Walden University's mission, students will be expected to demonstrate clearly the social change implications of the plan that they develop.

Prerequisites

• All required core and concentration courses

1 credit

Students in this course are introduced to the professional dispositions associated with the School of Counseling. Students work toward building a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents through the lens of these professional dispositions. Students engage in discussions and course assignments focused on the practical application of these dispositions, while practicing their professional writing, critical-thinking skills, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence as they relate to counselor educators and supervisors. Students also verify their completion of program orienting materials and begin to plan on how to include and improve the dispositions throughout their educational and professional careers. 

5 credits

The first step in helping individuals, families, organizations, and communities is to form effective helping relationships. These relationships are characterized by the ability to connect with clients and those around them through demonstrating empathic caring, respect for people and institutions, and genuineness that leads to perceived trustworthiness. Just as an ERG is a unit of energy in physics, Empathy, Respect, and Genuineness (ERG) is the unit of energy in helping relationships. In this course, students will learn how to talk with people in ways that demonstrate empathy, respect, and genuineness while obtaining the kind of information required to help clients identify their unmet needs and participate in finding ways to meet them. Students will participate in mock interviews and will participate in critiques of their own work along with their instructor. Students in this course will also focus on the essential functions of case management including how to write up important case notes appropriately with special attention to ethical and legal issues. While the basic principles underlying an effective helping relationship may be close to universal (ERG), the actual process of demonstrating them could vary greatly across cultures or countries; therefore, student will explore how this might differ in a different setting and among different professions.

5 credits

Students are introduced to the mental health counseling profession in this course. The history, philosophy, and theoretical foundations of the profession, and the scope of practice, credentialing, and other professional issues are explored. The focus is on the student as a future mental health counselor, and students receive an overview of the mental health counseling program, the profession, and professional competencies.

5 credits

Students in this course are introduced to aspects of professional functioning as an addiction counselor, including but not limited to: role setting of addiction counselors; history, philosophy, and trends in addictions counseling; professional standards for addictions counselors; effects of crises and trauma-causing events on persons with addictions; self‐care; and ethical and culturally sensitive practice of addiction counseling. Students also explore competencies, credentialing, and other professional issues. The student explores the future as an addiction counselor and an overview of the addiction counseling profession.

5 credits

This course is designed for students to receive a doctoral-level foundation in the history and development of the various human services professions. Students integrate information from various specializations, in areas such as counseling, social work, psychology, family studies, and criminal justice. Examining both the strengths and weaknesses of the human services delivery systems, students will review the origins of the profession as well as its various responses to the changing needs of society. Students can begin to develop their identities as leaders, researchers, and best practices informants in the area of human services. They do this through critical literature reviews related to research, policy, and practice; discussions about human services and contemporary society; and course assignments. The focus of this course is on the competencies and ethics of human services professionals.

5 credits

Diminishing resources are compounding the societal challenges facing human services agencies today. In this course, students will examine the core competencies that human services administrators need to address these challenges and make a greater difference in the communities they serve. A broad range of skills and innovative approaches will be discussed, including cross-agency collaboration, stakeholder communication, supervision of people and processes, creation and implementation of policies, and strategic planning and management. Through course discussions, applications, and critical literature reviews, students can demonstrate knowledge and skills that are directly translatable to their current work environment. In addition, they will explore how administration of Human Services organizations would differ across different cultures or societies. In addition to using case studies and access to a virtual city to bring life to the readings by giving students a chance to apply the material in complex situations, students will also use part 2 of a graphic novel that started in a prior course to help them see the transition from a focus on individuals and families to a focus on organizations and communities. In addition, students will participate in group activities that don't require synchronous communications as each student will be responsible for their own project, but they will also participate in feedback and critiques of group members' presentations and final projects.

5 credits

As leaders, advanced human services professional practitioners can inhabit many roles: generalist, planner, advanced case manager, advocate, humanitarian, and outreach worker. Throughout this course, students try on these roles in response to authentic human services scenarios in settings within a fictional community. In each scenario, they observe advanced human services professional practitioners applying role-specific strategies, approaches, and theories to help service users. Students also assess their current knowledge, skills, and abilities in relation to each role, as well as the values and experiences they bring to the profession. By the end of the course, students develop and refine a professional identity statement as a leader in the human services profession and examine self-care strategies relevant to the work of an advanced human services professional practitioner.

5 credits

Advanced human services professional practitioners frequently work with service users who are experiencing crisis and are in need of assessment to determine their level of care and to assist them with establishing and achieving goals. In this course, students develop motivational interviewing skills to help service users identify and self-motivate to achieve the goals they desire. Students apply motivational interviewing skills, such as open-ended questioning, affirming, reflective listening, and summarizing, to authentic human services case studies in the context of assessment. Students also have an opportunity to develop supervisory skills by providing constructive feedback on their peers' motivational interviewing and assessment skills.

5 credits

Students in this course examine the theory, philosophy, and practice of working with diverse populations, with a focus on the interplay between individual and unique cultures within societies and organizations attempting to move toward equality and cultural humility. They explore cultural issues and ethics related to economic disparity, power, privilege, and social justice. Students also explore the complex social, political, and related ethical challenges advanced human services professional practitioners face as they seek to meet the needs of diverse populations. Applying concepts presented in the course, students engage in in-depth assessments of emerging or persistent ethical or social justice issues, through which they demonstrate their ability to empower, support, and connect service users with community resources. Throughout the course, students engage in readings, case studies, and practical assignments to build skills to work in multicultural environments and participate in an immersive experience with a specific culture to further develop their cultural humility.

5 credits

In this course students will examine the philosophy of ethics and social justice, with a focus on the interplay among race, religion, and culture within and between different societies and organizations. Students will explore the complex social, political, and related ethical challenges Human Services professionals face as they seek to meet the needs of diverse populations. They will examine ethics and social justice related to economic disparity, power, and privilege. Applying concepts presented in the course, students will engage in an in-depth assessment of an emerging or persistent ethical or social justice issue, through which they will demonstrate their ability to make recommendations for improvement or change. They will engage in readings, case studies, and practical assignments to gain a better understanding of the interactions between culture, ethics, and social behaviors.

5 credits

Students in this course explore treatment intervention and case management strategies for addiction counseling, using various models of treatment, recovery, relapse prevention, and continuing care for addictive disorders. They learn treatment principles and philosophies of addiction-related programs, and they increase self-awareness as addiction counselors by assessing their own limitations; recognizing when they need additional resources and support; and knowing when and where to refer clients when appropriate. In addition, students examine substance abuse policies and regulatory processes that influence service delivery in addiction counseling.

5 credits

The potential for addictive disorders to present like a variety of medical and psychological disorders is common. In this course, students examine how to treat addictions that may coexist with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive behavior, and other psychological disorders as described in the DSM-IV-TR. They survey a spectrum of psychotropic medications and their use in the treatment of mental, behavioral, and addictive disorders. Students also explore factors that increase the likelihood for a person, community, or group to be at risk for psychoactive substance use disorders. Through this course, students gain an understanding of the basic classifications, indications, and contraindications of commonly prescribed medications so that they make appropriate referrals within treatment teams.

5 credits

Students in this course receive an overview of the different types of diagnostic and assessment tools used in addictions counseling based on professional standards for testing. Students engage in a comprehensive examination of psychometric properties used to develop and evaluate these instruments. They learn various models and approaches to clinical evaluations for addictive disorders and examine the appropriate use of assessments for addictions. Moreover, students learn how to assess for a biopsychosocial and spiritual history, and they address ethical, legal, and sociocultural issues, including cultural bias and fairness.

5 credits

Nonprofit organizations (NPOs) can serve to positively affect people's lives through social change, but they require leaders who have a fundamental understanding of the nonprofit sector, including related ethical, legal, and global perspectives. Students in this course explore these viewpoints as well as the history, foundations, and types of NPOs. They also examine the diverse political, social, and economic contexts within which NPOs exist. Students explore and apply marketing, public relations, and communication concepts and strategies to case studies and contemporary situations. Gaining practical insight, students also apply theories presented in the course to the development of a concept paper guiding the development of a nonprofit organization.

5 credits

Public and nonprofit leaders in all areas of public administration require a thorough understanding of the expectations of their roles as leaders and managers of diverse and complex organizations. Students use theoretical and applied perspectives from which they study the intricacies of these roles, including the distinction between leadership and management, organizational culture, change management, systems theories, and organizational development. Students gain a practical understanding of these topics through the application of principles and concepts to public and nonprofit organizational settings in different cultures and societies depicted in case studies, a virtual city environment, and through relevant material provided by students themselves. Students will also explore how to promote interprofessional collaboration within and among organizations.

5 credits

Students in this course have an overview of development through the lifespan, including childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and aging experiences. Physical, social, emotional, and cognitive issues are covered, as well as the expected developmental milestones during each of these phases of development. The latest research in attachment theory, brain research, and aging is included, and themes of diversity issues related to developmental research are highlighted throughout the course.

5 credits

Students in this course are provided with an introduction to the field of professional counseling and the foundations of counseling. Students explore the history, philosophy, cultural dynamics, and trends in professional counseling. They examine consultation as well as client and counselor advocacy, focusing on the counselor's role as social change agent. Students also examine and apply ethical standards of the counseling profession, including the American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics and counselor ethical decision-making processes. Through a final reflective project designed to influence their future ethical framework, students define their ethical perspectives, including influences, values, and goals.

5 credits

Students in this course focus on principles and skills related to interviewing and observation as well as related legal, ethical, and cultural issues. Students gain practice in conducting interviews, making behavioral observations, collecting and interpreting data during an interview, and developing written reports of findings.

Note: In addition to the course materials listed by the university bookstore, this course also requires that students have access to a video recording device, a tripod, and an audio recording device, which they will begin using the first week of class.

5 credits

This course introduces theories of counseling and psychotherapy to prepare students to conceptualize problems and respond with appropriate, evidence-based interventions and techniques. Students will become familiar with the origin, key concepts, and interventions and techniques of each of the theories presented. Students will develop an awareness of how counseling theories drive the treatment process and apply theories to diverse case studies. A major focus of this course is to support students as they develop their personal theoretical orientation.

5 credits

Students can increase their sensitivity, awareness and knowledge of, and skills related to multicultural counseling and working effectively with diverse clients in this course. Students explore how their own cultural development, biases, values, and strengths impact the development of their counseling approach. Embracing diversity and various client identity issues and their impact on the counseling relationship are foundational to the course. The application of traditional theoretical orientations and current multicultural theories to culturally diverse groups is also addressed. Topics include age, race, gender, sexual orientation, religious preference, physical disability, social class, ethnicity and culture, culturally sensitive diagnosis and assessment, and family patterns.

Prerequisites

• Counseling Residency I

3 credits

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. It provides a foundation for academic and professional success as a scholar-practitioner and as a social change agent. Topics include the relation of the mission and vision to professional goals; development of the program of study and Professional Development Plan; strategies for online success; introduction to the online library; and introduction to critical thinking, professional writing, and academic integrity. Course assignments focus on practical application of writing and critical-thinking skills and the promotion of academic excellence.

5 credits

The first step in helping individuals, families, organizations, and communities is to form effective helping relationships. These relationships are characterized by the ability to connect with clients and those around them through demonstrating empathic caring, respect for people and institutions, and genuineness that leads to perceived trustworthiness. Just as an ERG is a unit of energy in physics, Empathy, Respect, and Genuineness (ERG) is the unit of energy in helping relationships. In this course, students learn how to talk with people in ways that demonstrate empathy, respect, and genuineness while obtaining the kind of information required to help clients identify their unmet needs and participate in finding ways to meet them. Students will participate in mock interviews and critiques of their own work along with their instructor. Students in this course also focus on the essential functions of case management, including how to write up important case notes appropriately with special attention to ethical and legal issues. While the basic principles underlying an effective helping relationship may be close to universal (ERG), the actual process of demonstrating them could vary greatly across cultures or countries; therefore, students explore how this might differ in a different setting and among different professions.

5 credits

To be effective professional helpers, practitioners need to have a working knowledge of how research informs practice. This is becoming even more important as the emphasis on evidenced-based practice increases across all fields that provide human and social services. Students will explore different approaches to research and evaluation and will demonstrate the ability to find, critically read, and integrate relevant research articles from trustworthy sources. In addition, they will use case studies, discussions, and readings to help see the connections between theory, research, and practice and how applications might differ in different cultures and across different professions. They will also identify important ethical considerations related to conducting and reporting research results, especially in the context of program evaluations.

5 credits

Successful organizations in a rapidly changing and complex world require leaders who embrace change and are able to engage others in change. Students examine theories and models of leadership and organizational change, as well as consider the relationship between leadership and organizational change. They explore qualities, characteristics, and skills of effective leaders, ethical issues and standards, opportunities and challenges related to leading diverse organizations through change, and the contribution of leadership and organizational change to social change.

5 credits

In this course, counselor educators learn the fundamentals of crisis management and crisis leadership. In addition, students develop an understanding of the theories and models related to crises, disasters, and other trauma-causing events. Students also learn about ethical, legal, and diversity considerations in crisis and trauma response. By the end of the course, students understand models for training and supporting other counselors in the areas of crisis response applicable to community, national, and international crises. Students develop a crisis management plan for their own community.

5 credits

This course is designed to provide a doctoral-level foundation in the history and development of the various human services professions. Students integrate information from various specializations, in areas such as counseling, social work, psychology, family studies, and criminal justice. Examining both the strengths and weaknesses of the human services delivery systems, students review the origins of the profession as well as its various responses to the changing needs of society. Students can begin to develop their identities as leaders, researchers, and best practices informants in the area of human services. They do this through critical literature reviews related to research, policy, and practice; discussions about human services and contemporary society; and course assignments. The focus of this course is on the competencies and ethics of human services professionals.

5 credits

As leaders, advanced human services professional practitioners can inhabit many roles: generalist, planner, advanced case manager, advocate, humanitarian, and outreach worker. Throughout this course, students try on these roles in response to authentic human services scenarios in settings within a fictional community. In each scenario, they observe advanced human services professional practitioners applying role-specific strategies, approaches, and theories to help service users. Students also assess their current knowledge, skills, and abilities in relation to each role, as well as the values and experiences they bring to the profession. By the end of the course, students develop and refine a professional identity statement as a leader in the human services profession and examine self-care strategies relevant to the work of an advanced human services professional practitioner.

5 credits

Advanced human services professional practitioners frequently work with service users who are experiencing crisis and are in need of assessment to determine their level of care and to assist them with establishing and achieving goals. In this course, students develop motivational interviewing skills to help service users identify and self-motivate to achieve the goals they desire. Students apply motivational interviewing skills, such as open-ended questioning, affirming, reflective listening, and summarizing, to authentic human services case studies in the context of assessment. Students also have an opportunity to develop supervisory skills by providing constructive feedback on their peers' motivational interviewing and assessment skills.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 6000
• HUMN 6160

5 credits

Students in this course examine the theory, philosophy, and practice of working with diverse populations, with a focus on the interplay between individual and unique cultures within societies and organizations attempting to move toward equality and cultural humility. They explore cultural issues and ethics related to economic disparity, power, privilege, and social justice. Students also explore the complex social, political, and related ethical challenges advanced human services professional practitioners face as they seek to meet the needs of diverse populations. Applying concepts presented in the course, students engage in in-depth assessments of emerging or persistent ethical or social justice issues, through which they demonstrate their ability to empower, support, and connect service users with community resources. Throughout the course, students engage in readings, case studies, and practical assignments to build skills to work in multicultural environments and participate in an immersive experience with a specific culture to further develop their cultural humility.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 6160
• HUMN 6161

5 credits

Students in this course study the fundamentals of crisis management and crisis leadership. They develop an understanding of the theories and models related to crises, disasters, and other trauma-causing events. Students also learn about ethical, legal, and diversity considerations in crisis and trauma response. By the end of the course, students understand models for training and supporting other counselors in the areas of crisis response applicable to community, national, and international crises, and they develop a crisis management plan for their own community.

5 credits

In this course, students will examine the philosophy of ethics and social justice, with a focus on the interplay among race, religion, and culture within and between different societies and organizations. Students will explore the complex social, political, and related ethical challenges Human Services professionals face as they seek to meet the needs of diverse populations. They will examine ethics and social justice related to economic disparity, power, and privilege. Applying concepts presented in the course, students will engage in an in-depth assessment of an emerging or persistent ethical or social justice issue, through which they will demonstrate their ability to make recommendations for improvement or change. They will engage in readings, case studies, and practical assignments to gain a better understanding of the interactions among culture, ethics, and social behaviors.

5 credits

Nonprofit organizations (NPOs) can serve to positively affect people's lives through social change, but they require leaders who have a fundamental understanding of the nonprofit sector, including related ethical, legal, and global perspectives. Students in this course explore these viewpoints as well as the history, foundations, and types of NPOs. They also examine the diverse political, social, and economic contexts within which NPOs exist. Students explore and apply marketing, public relations, and communication concepts and strategies to case studies and contemporary situations. Gaining practical insight, students also apply theories presented in the course to the development of a concept paper guiding the development of a nonprofit organization.

5 credits

Students in this course will be provided with an in-depth study of basic and applied research and theory on both group processes and group relations. Some topics that could be included: prejudice, discrimination, stereotyping, social categorization, minority and majority influence, group decision-making, leadership, group structure, group socialization, bargaining and negotiation, intergroup conflict and cooperation, collective action and cognition, collective self and identity, social identity, language and identity, ethnic and cultural relations, and social dilemmas. 

5 credits

Grant writing is a highly marketable skill that requires many nonprofit, educational, and community organizations to secure external funding to provide needed services to the community. In this course, students will explore the basic skills needed for non-research grant writing, including identifying potential funding sources, creating objectives and a need statement, preparing and justifying a budget, identifying appropriate assessment plans, and writing an executive summary. Through course assignments, students directly apply what they are reading and discussing by writing a full grant proposal based on an actual Request for Proposal (RFP).

Prerequisites

• HUMN 6160
• HUMN 6480

5 credits

Public and nonprofit leaders in all areas of public administration require a thorough understanding of the expectations of their roles as leaders and managers of diverse and complex organizations. Students use theoretical and applied perspectives from which they study the intricacies of these roles, including the distinction between leadership and management, organizational culture, change management, systems theories, and organizational development. Students gain a practical understanding of these topics through the application of principles and concepts to public and nonprofit organizational settings in different cultures and societies depicted in case studies, a virtual city environment, and through relevant material provided by students themselves. Students will also explore how to promote interprofessional collaboration within and among organizations.

5 credits

Doctoral level practitioners are often called upon to conduct rigorous evaluations of programs and the results of their evaluations often determine the fate of the programs they evaluate and the clients served by those programs. Therefore, it is important that students learn how to conduct both formative and summative evaluations and how to evaluate the fidelity of program implementation prior to evaluating program outcomes. In this way, program evaluation also tests the theory or logic model on which the program is based. Students will use hands-on activities to develop their ability to develop evaluation plans, provide constructive critical critiques of other students' projects, and accept constructive, critical feedback from others. They will also connect with other professionals engaged in evaluation research through various professional forums (e.g., listservs, blogs, and professional associations). In addition, they will explore how the process, pressures, and outcomes of evaluation research could differ in a different culture and across different professions.

5 credits

Students in this course will review past and current models of health behavior change, disease prevention, disease management, and relapse prevention. Coverage of health-related issues includes dietary needs, tobacco and drug use, safer sexual practices, and stress management. In addition, students will examine the analysis of behavior change within specific populations (young, elderly, cognitively impaired, etc.) and factors that predict or serve as obstacles to lifestyle change and adherence.

5 credits

This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the personal and systemic impact of crises, disasters, and other trauma-causing events on individuals, couples, families, and communities. Students examine theories and response models as they relate to sexual trauma, crisis in individuals and families, crisis in the community, and crisis in the nation and in the world. They explore topics including crisis assessment, counselor competencies, vicarious trauma and countertransference, specific related diagnoses, and advocacy. Students consider cultural, legal, and ethical issues related to crisis, trauma, and disaster events and response.

5 credits

Professionals in all areas of public policy and administration work with individuals and organizations of different cultures on a daily basis; therefore, global consciousness is vital to effective communication and interaction in the field. In this course, students explore and analyze the cultural values and styles of communication, reasoning, and leadership unique to their home culture. Students apply these concepts to better understand the people, values, and policies of other cultures. They also identify and become familiar with challenges that American nonprofit organizations face as they work internationally or cross-culturally within the United States. Sharpening critical-thinking skills, students research and assess an organization within their own community that has international links; through this assessment, students gain further awareness of different cultures and the importance of cross-cultural ties.

Prerequisites

• A course or direct experience in nonprofit management is strongly advised.

5 credits

In this course, students study in depth the cultures, structures, and activities of NGOs in select countries and compare their activities, organizational cultures, structures, and working environments with nonprofits in the United States.

5 credits

Students investigate the evolution of crime—from lone criminals to worldwide syndicates—using the scientific rigor built into the selected readings and discussions. Among the topics examined are the philosophy of community- and problem-oriented policing, transnational crime, terrorism, and the new nexus between them. Current and future leaders are equipped with the knowledge and depth of understanding to assess and manage the opportunities, innovations, and challenges in their profession.

5 credits

Students in this course are provided with a foundation in the theoretical perspectives and empirical framework necessary for marriage, couple, and family therapy. The theoretical perspective includes general systems theory and its applications, as well as psychosocial, psychodynamic, transgenerational, strategic, cognitive-behavioral, and social constructionist models. Students learn to conceptualize presenting issues within a systemic perspective and context. Empirically based techniques for assessment and intervention of marriages, couples, and families are reviewed and analyzed.

5 credits

In this course, students are provided with a framework for understanding human sexuality in the context of couple, marriage, and family counseling. Students in this course explore empirically supported counseling approaches related to sexual functioning, intimacy, gender, and sexual orientation. Students are exposed to a systemic framework for understanding the role and impact of sexuality on couples, marriages, and families. Students will explore specific topics related to issues of sexual diversity, gender identity, sexual offending, trauma, and victimization. Legal and ethical issues related to addressing sexuality in counseling are tackled.

5 credits

The specific focus of this course is on combat trauma, crisis, and stress experiences and responses of military personnel—both wartime and post-war. Students develop an understanding of the short-term and long-term impact of post-traumatic stress and vicarious trauma. In addition to focusing on how combat and wartime experiences impact individual military personnel, students also explore the effects on families. As a result, students will be better prepared to provide services and mental health support to military personnel dealing with trauma, crisis, and stress.

5 credits

The nature of military work responsibilities impacts not only military personnel but their families as well. Frequent family relocations, extensive deployments, parent-child separation, and high-risk jobs all contribute to unique family dynamics. This course is designed to educate students about the experience and unique support needs of military personnel and their families.

5 credits

This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of military culture. The focus of this course is on understanding the world of work for military personnel; the sociocultural identity development of military personnel; the experience of military families; support for military personnel and their families; and socioeconomic and other lifestyle challenges for military personnel. As a result of this course, students will be more informed about the mental health and social support needs of these populations.

5 credits

Ethics is a foundational element of leadership. Leaders face increasingly complex social and political challenges as they seek to meet the needs of diverse constituents. Students in this course explore ethics and social justice related to economic disparity, power, and privilege. Students use demographic data, current social trends, and themes to understand, analyze, and address ethical and social justice issues that affect the delivery of human services in a global community.

5 credits

Government officials, research programs, and NGOs are increasingly expected to make better and more transparent use of evidence in producing viable policy options within highly complex policy environments that are heavily influenced by power and politics. Public policy analysis has been described as the art and craft of speaking truth to power (Wildavsky, 1987) in seeking ways to promote positive social change in these complex environments. Policy analysis within this context requires several distinct skill sets: an understanding of the policy context, technical knowledge and analytical tools to identify and apply evidence ethically and with professional judgment, an appreciation and engagement of the concerns and contributions of diverse stakeholders, and the ability to develop and communicate practical policy advice.

This course is framed around Bardach and Patashnik's eightfold path, which lays out a series of iterative, not necessarily sequential, steps to follow when analyzing a policy issue and uses design thinking to guide the process. Students examine key concepts of public policy analysis through evidence-based research to locate issues in relation to theory and current trends. This course provides project-based opportunities to practice and gain the skills and knowledge to use evidence to shape policy more effectively.

Prerequisites

• MMPA 6116 or HUMN 8000 or HUMN 6000 or HUMN 8001 or SOCW 8002 or SOCW 8002W or MMHA 6000 or MMHA 6000A or HLTH 8003A or HLTH 8003 or HLTH 8003E or HLTH 8003B or NURS 8003

5 credits

In an increasingly complex world, leaders and managers in public and nonprofit organizations need to be strategic in their planning in order to fulfill the organizational mission and enhance stakeholder satisfaction. Students in this course explore the role and process of strategic planning with an appreciation for collaboration, cooperation, and coordination as they relate to the strategic planning process. Students will apply these concepts to real-life situations and organizations and develop a strategic plan.

5 credits

Nonprofit and public/government organizations need to be able to show positive evidence related to their mission and ability to effect social change to remain viable. By developing performance improvement evaluation plans that are structured with metrics, leaders can disseminate an organization's progress to build stakeholder engagement and collaboration. Students in this course will be introduced to a critical appraisal of levels of evidence, performance improvement and evaluation methods, and the importance of dissemination of organizational outcomes to help contribute to a positive future for social change.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 6161
• HUMN 6162

5 credits

In this course, students are provided with the basic knowledge necessary to evaluate and subsequently treat many different forensic populations. Various forensic populations, such as sex offenders, substance abusers, victims of crime, and employee assistance to law enforcement personnel, will be covered. The use of traditional forms of intervention, such as individual and group psychotherapy, as well as recent developments in intervention, such as restorative justice, will be addressed.

5 credits

Students in this course concentrate on the application of forensic psychology to various community settings. An emphasis is placed on working with offenders upon re-entry to the community and offenders who receive non-incarceration community placements. However, students will also explore less common applications, such as restorative justice and community crime prevention.

5 credits

The success of nonprofit organizations (NPOs) is highly dependent on volunteers: the effective governance provided by the volunteer board of directors and the management of program volunteers—individuals who often serve as the lifeblood of NPOs. Students in this course explore the board governance process. They focus on methods that organizations use to create and maintain an effective board of directors to ensure that the board governs and guides the organization toward their mission. Students also explore board member recruitment, orientation, training, supervision, and evaluation; and they reflect on the use of those practices for program volunteers. Students create a five-section guide that includes a board development and volunteer management plan based on processes presented in the course and fundamental concepts acquired earlier in the program.

5 credits

This capstone course is the culmination of the MS in Human Services program. In this course, students demonstrate senior case management skills and their understanding of the responsibility and leadership of the advanced human services professional practitioner to advocate for social change with service users, organizations, communities, and the human services profession. Students also demonstrate methods of advanced human services practice within local, national, and international organizations. Students continue to enhance their professional development plans by preparing for professional opportunities.

5 credits

Students in this course explore the cultural components, research, and theory of cross-cultural psychology. In addition to the previously listed goals, students focus on the impact that culture has on the field of psychology around the world. The scope of this course is broad, with the core theme being cross-cultural psychology (focusing on cultures representing different parts of the world) and comparing cultural influence on human psychology. Many of the topics addressed are related to human development. Additionally, interactions among culture and social behaviors, health, mental health, and mental illnesses are emphasized throughout the duration of this course.

5 credits

In this course, students are introduced to the seminal theories and practices of alternative dispute resolution (ADR). They will explore conflict analysis, negotiation, and mediation strategies. Through a series of case studies, virtual role plays, and simulation exercises, students gain insight into the practice of ADR and will have the opportunity to develop some effective negotiation and mediation skills. Students will gain a greater understanding of the differences between principled and positional negotiation and mediation, including such professional concepts as fairness, integrity, trust, and confidentiality.

5 credits

Students in this course examine the history, philosophy, and techniques of terrorism as well as countermeasures to terroristic threats to public safety. Topics include aspects of international and domestic terrorism with an emphasis on terrorism's roots, viewed from the broadest possible political, sociological, and cultural perspectives; factors and catalysts attributed to the terrorism phenomenon—including poverty, psychology (e.g., motivational factors, antisocial behaviors), social injustice, oppression, and religion; and the impact of media and technology in aiding and countering terroristic activities.

5 credits

Through this course, students engage in a study of conflict, conflict resolution, and peace from psychological and social psychological perspectives. Students examine the concept of conflict and methods of addressing it, including management, resolution, and transformation; theories related to conflict resolution; approaches to conflict resolution, including negotiation and third-party interventions; and social psychological factors that influence conflict and conflict resolution. They also consider the influence of culture in conflict and conflict resolution; the role of ethics; intractable and international conflicts; the concept of peace; and how third-party approaches can contribute to the peace process. Students apply conflict resolution approaches to conflicts at all levels, from interpersonal to those involving whole nations.

5 credits

In this course, students prepare for their roles as change agents in the human services profession. Throughout the course, students focus on a specific social problem they are passionate about and plan for a community needs assessment to address the problem. As they do so, they examine how prevention, advocacy, and consultation are used to effect positive social change. Students also discuss a variety of social change topics with their peers, such as the language of social change, the use of systems thinking to better understand and address social problems, the emergence and progress of social justice issues, and the strategies for effecting global social change.

5 credits

Legal decisions and the law have an impact on the creation of public policy. Students in this course explore the relationship between law and public policy and the significance of court decisions on law and public policy. They examine the role of administrative agencies in the creation and execution of law and public policy and the role of the courts in resolving challenges to agency rulemaking; conflicts between executive and legislative branches of government; and conflicts between and among federal, state, and local laws. Students apply fundamental legal concepts and processes to the creation and execution of law and public policy.

5 credits

In this course, students are introduced to the basic concepts and practice of community psychology. Guiding values and assumptions of the field, basic ecological concepts, and models of intervention are examined. Topics include diversity in community psychology, social change, primary and secondary prevention, community mental health, empowerment, stress, and resiliency.

5 credits

Great improvements in medicine, public health, science, and technology enable today's older adults to live healthier, longer lives. In this course, students explore theories and practices for providing services to older adults who remain independent and vibrant members of their families and communities. Students delve into models of aging in place, including ways of assessing health, social and economic needs, and identifying and prioritizing options in physical, mental, emotional, and intellectual health promotion activities and programs.

5 credits

Mental health counseling professionals in all areas, especially criminal forensic psychological practice, may encounter various conflicts regarding psychological and legal approaches to treatment. Therefore, it is important for counselors to have a firm understanding of mental health law to avoid conflicts, such as issues of liability and malpractice. Students in this course are provided with the opportunity to examine several different aspects of the law related to mental health issues, including those constituting forensic psychological practice, such as civil matters (personal injury and civil competency issues) and criminal matters (competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, diminished capacity, and death-penalty issues). Students employ recent court decisions and laws, such as the Tarasoff ruling, mandated reporting, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), to examine how mental health law influences the practice of psychology and mental health counseling.

3 credits

Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students work toward building a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. They assess the relationship of mission and vision to professional goals and develop a program of study and strategies for online success. Students also explore resources used throughout the program, such as the online Walden University Library. Students engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of professional writing, critical-thinking skills, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence.

3 credits

Research is possible with the right skills, attitude, and knowledge. How do you successfully complete an online research-intensive program? In this course, students are introduced to Walden University resources and they prepare to become independent learners in an online environment. Students can gain mastery of the online classroom and technological tools needed at Walden University, and they can learn skills for success in the human services program, including scholarly voice in discussions and writing, library search skills, and skills for reading and writing a literature review.

3 credits

As leaders, advanced human services professional practitioners can inhabit many roles: generalist, planner, advanced case manager, advocate, humanitarian, and outreach worker. Throughout this course, students try on these roles in response to authentic human services scenarios in settings within a fictional community. In each scenario, they observe advanced human services professional practitioners applying role-specific strategies, approaches, and theories to help service users. Students also assess their current knowledge, skills, and abilities in relation to each role, as well as the values and experiences they bring to the profession. By the end of the course, students develop and refine a professional identity statement as a leader in the human services profession and examine self-care strategies relevant to the work of an advanced human services professional practitioner.

5 credits

Learning in adulthood is imperative for individuals to realize the opportunities of 21st-century workplaces, technology, and society. Providing these learning experiences requires committed and responsive adult and postsecondary education leaders. In this course, education professionals investigate contemporary trends and issues in teaching and learning in postsecondary and adult education settings. The course also provides education professionals with an introduction to the expectations of graduate work in Adult Education and College Teaching and Learning programs. Education professionals learn to work effectively within Walden University's online learning environment and develop an understanding of university and program support systems, expectations, and outcomes.

5 credits

The first step in helping individuals, families, organizations, and communities is to form effective helping relationships. These relationships are characterized by the ability to connect with clients and those around them through demonstrating empathic caring, respect for people and institutions, and genuineness that leads to perceived trustworthiness. Just as an ERG is a unit of energy in physics, Empathy, Respect, and Genuineness (ERG) is the unit of energy in helping relationships. In this course, students will learn how to talk with people in ways that demonstrate empathy, respect, and genuineness while obtaining the kind of information required to help clients identify their unmet needs and participate in finding ways to meet them. Students will participate in mock interviews and will participate in critiques of their own work along with their instructor. Students in this course will also focus on the essential functions of case management including how to write up important case notes appropriately with special attention to ethical and legal issues. While the basic principles underlying an effective helping relationship may be close to universal (ERG), the actual process of demonstrating them could vary greatly across cultures or countries; therefore, students will explore how this might differ in a different setting and among different professions.

5 credits

In order to be effective professional helpers, practitioners need to have a working knowledge of how research informs practice. This is becoming even more important as the emphasis on evidenced-based practice increases across all fields that provide human and social services. Students will explore different approaches to research and evaluation and will demonstrate the ability to find, critically read, and integrate relevant research articles from trustworthy sources. In addition, they will use case studies, discussions, and readings to help see the connections between theory, research, and practice and how applications might differ in different cultures and across different professions. They will also identify important ethical considerations related to conducting and reporting research results, especially in the context of program evaluations.

5 credits

One of the primary focuses of social work is to promote social justice within a diverse society. In this course, students focus on an advanced exploration of traditional and contemporary clinical social work theories for providing culturally and contextually relevant services to individuals and families. Students examine social work theories in a way that informs clinical practice, and they discuss the role of the social worker in social issues at the macro and micro levels. Students evaluate existing practices and policies with the goal of designing and implementing more effective practices and policies that positively impact the individual, the community, and society at large.

5 credits

Successful organizations in a rapidly changing and complex world require leaders who embrace change and are able to engage others in change. In this course, students use traditional literature, current articles, and interactive media to explore the qualities, characteristics, and skills of effective leaders as well as the theories, models, and relationships between leadership and organizational change. They assess the ethical issues and standards as well as the opportunities and challenges related to leading diverse organizations through change. Students also examine how current leaders employ leadership and organizational change to contribute to social change, and they consider how to use these lessons to make further positive changes within an organization or their own community.

5 credits

In this course, counselor educators learn the fundamentals of crisis management and crisis leadership. In addition, students develop an understanding of the theories and models related to crises, disasters, and other trauma-causing events. Students also learn about ethical, legal, and diversity considerations in crisis and trauma response. By the end of the course, students understand models for training and supporting other counselors in the areas of crisis response applicable to community, national, and international crises. Furthermore, students develop a crisis management plan for their own community.

5 credits

This course is designed to provide students with a doctoral foundation in the history and development of the various human services professions. Students engage in coursework that integrates content from various specializations, in areas such as counseling, social work, psychology, family studies, and criminal justice. Examining both the strengths and weaknesses of the human services delivery systems, students review the origins of the profession as well as its various responses to the changing needs of society. Through critical literature reviews related to research, policy, and practice; discussions about human services and contemporary society; and practical assignments, students begin to develop their identities as leaders, researchers, and informants in the area of human services. Students focus on the competencies and ethics of human services professionals.

5 credits

As leaders, advanced human services professional practitioners can inhabit many roles: generalist, planner, advanced case manager, advocate, humanitarian, and outreach worker. Throughout this course, students try on these roles in response to authentic human services scenarios in settings within a fictional community. In each scenario, they observe advanced human services professional practitioners applying role-specific strategies, approaches, and theories to help service users. Students also assess their current knowledge, skills, and abilities in relation to each role, as well as the values and experiences they bring to the profession. By the end of the course, students develop and refine a professional identity statement as a leader in the human services profession and examine self-care strategies relevant to the work of an advanced human services professional practitioner.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 8001
• HUMN 8785

5 credits

Advanced human services professional practitioners frequently work with service users who are experiencing crisis and are in need of assessment to determine their level of care and to assist them with establishing and achieving goals. In this course, students develop motivational interviewing skills to help service users identify and self-motivate to achieve the goals they desire. Students apply motivational interviewing skills, such as open-ended questioning, affirming, reflective listening, and summarizing, to authentic human services case studies in the context of assessment. Students also have an opportunity to develop supervisory skills by providing constructive feedback on their peers' motivational interviewing and assessment skills.

5 credits

Students in this course examine the theory, philosophy, and practice of working with diverse populations, with a focus on the interplay between individual and unique cultures within societies and organizations attempting to move toward equality and cultural humility. They explore cultural issues and ethics related to economic disparity, power, privilege, and social justice. Students also explore the complex social, political, and related ethical challenges advanced human services professional practitioners face as they seek to meet the needs of diverse populations. Applying concepts presented in the course, students engage in in-depth assessments of emerging or persistent ethical or social justice issues, through which they demonstrate their ability to empower, support, and connect service users with community resources. Throughout the course, students engage in readings, case studies, and practical assignments to build skills to work in multicultural environments and participate in an immersive experience with a specific culture to further develop their cultural humility.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 8785
• HUMN 8160

5 credits

Students in this course study the fundamentals of crisis management and crisis leadership. They develop an understanding of the theories and models related to crises, disasters, and other trauma-causing events. Students also learn about ethical, legal, and diversity considerations in crisis and trauma response. By the end of the course, students understand models for training and supporting other counselors in the areas of crisis response applicable to community, national, and international crises, and they develop a crisis management plan for their own community.

5 credits

To understand adult learning, one must ask and answer complex questions: Who is the adult learner? What is the social context of learning? What motivates adult learners? In this course, education professionals explore the theories and frameworks that inform the field of adult learning today. They identify, compare, and contrast foundational and emerging perspectives on adult learning with the aim of transforming theory into practice. They engage in an integrative course project through which they synthesize and apply various theories to real-world situations, including their own development; summarize how the idea of wisdom impacts their experiences as adult learners; interview an adult learner; and assess various perspectives in regard to educating diverse learners.

5 credits

Emerging technologies are rapidly altering the field of adult education today. Innovative technologies are removing traditional boundaries to learning and encouraging a global perspective on school, work, and communications. New developments in software, multimedia applications, Internet technologies, and mobile computing are transforming the educational landscape and empowering learners around the world. In this course, educators and students explore how they can leverage these advances to enhance the learning process and improve outcomes in today's digital information society.

5 credits

Nonprofit organizations (NPOs) can serve to positively affect people's lives through social change, but they require leaders who have a fundamental understanding of the nonprofit sector, including related ethical, legal, and global perspectives. Students in this course explore these viewpoints as well as the history, foundations, and types of NPOs. They also examine the diverse political, social, and economic contexts within which NPOs exist. Students explore and apply marketing, public relations, and communication concepts and strategies to case studies and contemporary situations. Gaining practical insight, students also apply theories presented in the course to the development of a concept paper guiding the development of a nonprofit organization.

5 credits

An in-depth study of a range of survey methods administered via in-person interview, self-report, phone interview, and Internet administration is introduced in this course. Topics will include survey design, administration, analysis, and addressing sources of bias. In the course, students will also review theoretical and empirical research on question and questionnaire effects. Students are prepared in the practice of writing questions and designing questionnaires, both in general and in light of existing research.

5 credits

In this course, students examine the philosophy of ethics and social justice, with a focus on the interplay among race, religion, and culture within and between different societies and organizations. Students explore the complex social, political, and related ethical challenges that Human Services professionals face as they seek to meet the needs of diverse populations. They examine ethics and social justice related to economic disparity, power, and privilege. Applying concepts presented in the course, students engage in an in-depth assessment of an emerging or persistent ethical or social justice issue, through which they will demonstrate their ability to make recommendations for improvement or change. Students engage in readings, case studies, and practical assignments to gain a better understanding of the interactions among culture, ethics, and social behaviors.

5 credits

As human and social problems increase across the globe, human services professional practitioners must be prepared to work in a variety of fields with many different populations. In this course, students examine their own calling to be a human services professional practitioner and connect their passion to leading positive social change. Students explore the value of human services and the challenges that professional practitioners face in the field today. The course covers human services ethics of professional practice, along with key skills every human services professional practitioner must master to be prepared to work anywhere in the world. Course content exposes new concepts and trends in human services, and students analyze and propose reimagined practices in some areas, including interviewing, assessment, and referral; understanding and applying research in the field; the role of program evaluations; interprofessional networking; and transnational practice.

5 credits

As human and social problems increase across the globe, human services professional practitioners must be prepared to work in a variety of fields with many different populations. In this course, students examine their own calling to be a human services professional practitioner and connect their passion to leading positive social change. Students explore the value of human services and the challenges that professional practitioners face in the field today. The course covers human services ethics of professional practice, along with key skills every human services professional practitioner must master to be prepared to work anywhere in the world. Course content exposes new concepts and trends in human services, and students analyze and propose reimagined practices in some areas, including interviewing, assessment, and referral; understanding and applying research in the field; the role of program evaluations; interprofessional networking; and transnational practice.

5 credits

Grant writing is a highly marketable skill that requires many nonprofit, educational, and community organizations to secure external funding to provide needed services to the community. In this course, students will explore the basic skills needed for non-research grant writing including identifying potential funding sources, creating objectives and a needs statement, preparing and justifying a budget, identifying appropriate assessment plans, and writing an executive summary. Course assignments will allow students to directly apply what they are reading and discussing by writing a full grant proposal based on an actual Request for Proposal (RFP).

Prerequisites

• HUMN 8304 or RSCH 8210 

5 credits

Grant writing is a highly marketable skill that requires many non-profit, educational and community organizations to secure external funding in order to provide needed services to the community. In this course, students will explore the basic skills needed for non-research grant writing including identifying potential funding sources, creating objectives and a need statement, preparing and justifying a budget, identifying appropriate assessment plans, and writing an executive summary. Course assignments will allow students to directly apply what they are reading and discussing by writing a full grant proposal based on an actual request for proposal (RFP).

5 credits

Human services professional practitioners who hold a PhD often work in post-secondary education. Students in this course prepare to become competent teachers in human services education through the examination of various adult learning theories and methods for working effectively with different learning styles, cultural dynamics, and diversity. Human services educators-in-training will have the opportunity to learn how to help human services students acquire and apply knowledge and skills, and they will examine methods to evaluate learning outcomes. Students also have the opportunity to evaluate effectiveness within their personal teaching practice. Incorporating knowledge, skills, and professional dispositions learned throughout the course, students have opportunities to design curriculum, practice teaching in online situations, evaluate work, and receive feedback as human services educators-in-training.

5 credits

Seeing social issues from other viewpoints is the pinnacle of the human services practitioner profession, and it is critical in human services research. In this course, students examine the step-by-step skills of Kurt Lewin's force field analysis research to analyze the problems encountered by families, communities, and organizations. Force field analysis is a tool for understanding how human behavior (e.g., beliefs, attitudes, and cultural norms) influence actions and decisions. Course content outlines how to identify a problem, how to collect data and measure the driving forces and restraining forces that help and hinder the situation, and how to use the data strategically for informing decision makers on possible interventions and strategies toward solving the problem. Students can use their own experiences and areas of focus in this course as a basis for choosing a topic and developing a study plan that they will use in their capstone study.

Prerequisites

• RSCH 8110

5 credits

Public and nonprofit leaders in all areas of public administration require a thorough understanding of the expectations of their roles as leaders and managers of diverse and complex organizations. Students use theoretical and applied perspectives from which they study the intricacies of these roles, including the distinction between leadership and management, organizational culture, change management, systems theories, and organizational development. Students gain a practical understanding of these topics through the application of principles and concepts to public and nonprofit organizational settings in different cultures and societies depicted in case studies, a virtual city environment, and through relevant material provided by students themselves. Students will also explore how to promote interprofessional collaboration within and among organizations.

5 credits

Public and nonprofit leaders in all areas of public administration require a thorough understanding of the expectations of their roles as leaders and managers of diverse and complex organizations. Students use theoretical and applied perspectives from which they study the intricacies of these roles, including the distinction between leadership and management, organizational culture, change management, systems theories, and organizational development. Students gain a practical understanding of these topics through the application of principles and concepts to public and nonprofit organizational settings in different cultures and societies depicted in case studies, a virtual city environment, and through relevant material provided by students themselves. Students will also explore how to promote inter-professional collaboration within and among organizations.

5 credits

Leaders of human services organizations may seek consultants to support organizational planning, funding, or program evaluation. In this course, students explore consultation practices that will help build relationships with human services organizations and be an effective consultant. Students address specific consulting situations including: vision and mission statement development, grant funding, project plans, data collection, and reporting. In this course, students will participate in a simulated initial interview with a human services organization leader. The application project includes a project plan outline and engagement letter.

5 credits

Students in this course are provided with an overview of development through the lifespan, including childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and aging experiences. Physical, social, emotional, and cognitive issues are covered, as well as the expected developmental milestones during each of these phases of development. The latest research in attachment theory, brain research, and aging is included, and themes of diversity issues related to developmental research are highlighted throughout the course.

5 credits

Doctoral level practitioners are often called upon to conduct rigorous evaluations of programs, and the results of their evaluations often determine the fate of the programs they evaluate and the clients served by those programs. Therefore, it is important that students learn how to conduct both formative and summative evaluations and how to evaluate the fidelity of program implementation prior to evaluating program outcomes. In this way, program evaluation also tests the theory or logic model on which the program is based. Students will use hands-on activities to develop their ability to develop evaluation plans, provide constructive critical critiques of other students' projects, and accept constructive, critical feedback from others. They will also connect with other professionals engaged in evaluation research through various professional forums (e.g., listservs, blogs, and professional associations). In addition, they will explore how the process, pressures, and outcomes of evaluation research could differ in a different culture and across different professions.

5 credits

Doctoral level practitioners are often called upon to conduct rigorous evaluations of programs and the results of their evaluations often determine the fate of the programs they evaluate and the clients served by those programs. Therefore, it is important that students learn how to conduct both formative and summative evaluations and how to evaluate the fidelity of program implementation prior to evaluating program outcomes. In this way, program evaluation also tests the theory or logic model on which the program is based. Students will use hands-on activities to develop their ability to develop evaluation plans, provide constructive critical critiques of other students' projects, and accept constructive, critical feedback from others. They will also connect with other professionals engaged in evaluation research through various professional forums (e.g., listservs, blogs, and professional associations). In addition, they will explore how the process, pressures, and outcomes of evaluation research could differ in a different culture and across different professions.

5 credits

Students in this course receive an overview of physiological, psychological, and social aspects in the study of motivation, including an exploration of historical and contemporary theories and perspectives. Students focus on both conceptual understanding of theories associated with motivation and their applications to personal, professional, and social issues. Major topics include physiological, learned, cognitive, and emotional aspects of motivation. Themes of diversity are threaded throughout the course.

5 credits

Human Services professional practitioners often spend a great deal of time working with, supporting, and advocating for families and contemporary family issues. Understanding the social construction of families and the challenges facing family systems is vital to advancing social change in human services. In this course, students will examine contemporary family issues from micro, meso and macro perspectives, including issues in the current research, legislation, popular media, and personal and professional experiences. Students will identify a contemporary family issue that needs advocacy, review public and private attitudes, compile a current annotated bibliography on the topic, and present an advocacy paper to peers.

5 credits

Students in this course will review past and current models of health behavior change, disease prevention, disease management, and relapse prevention. Coverage of health-related issues includes dietary needs, tobacco and drug use, safer sexual practices, and stress management. In addition, students will examine the analysis of behavior change within specific populations (young, elderly, cognitively impaired, etc.) and factors that predict or serve as obstacles to lifestyle change and adherence.

5 credits

Seeing social issues from other viewpoints is the pinnacle of the human services practitioner profession, and it is critical in human services research. In this course, students examine the step-by-step skills of Kurt Lewin's force field analysis research to analyze the problems encountered by families, communities, and organizations. Force field analysis is a tool for understanding how human behavior (i.e., beliefs, attitudes, and cultural norms) influence actions and decisions. The course content outlines how to identify a problem, how to collect data and measure the driving forces and restraining forces that help and hinder the situation, and how to use the data strategically for informing decision makers on possible interventions and strategies toward solving the problem.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 8206D or HUMN 8206

5 credits

Human Services professional practitioners and leaders often participate in advocacy on behalf of the needs of a group, a community, or a population. Action research is a form of collaborative inquiry, with the full participation of members of the group to collect and analyze the information needed to support advocacy, which creates positive social change. In this course, students evaluate action research as a tool used for advocacy in human services. Using an example of action research, students analyze and evaluate the planning process, data collection, and use the findings to create a communication to stakeholders and other audiences as a method of advocacy. Students also consider how to include action research in their doctoral capstone project.

5 credits

Students are provided with the opportunity to increase their knowledge of multicultural counseling and the delivery of psychological services as well as related skills needed in professional practice. Students explore diversity and identity issues and discuss their impact on the therapeutic relationship. They examine the application of traditional theoretical orientations and current multicultural theories to culturally diverse groups. Through a variety of assignments designed to provide practical application of content, students also investigate counseling concepts related to race and ethnicity, sex and gender, sexual orientation, social class, age, and ability.

5 credits

Human services professional practitioners use statistics in a variety of professional undertakings, such as creating studies to assess human behavior or deciding which programs are most effective for meeting clients' needs. Students in this course study basic descriptive and inferential statistical methods commonly used in the social sciences, and they work toward developing the skills to write, analyze, and critique social science research. Students explore various methods, including computation and analysis of frequency distributions, measures of central tendency, and statistical hypothesis testing. Students also examine statistical tests (and underlying assumptions), including z-score; single-sample, independent-sample, and related-sample t tests; analysis of variance; correlation; regression; and chi-square tests. This course also provides an introduction to the SPSS statistical software package.

5 credits

Human services professional practitioners use statistics in a variety of professional undertakings, such as creating studies to assess human behavior or deciding which programs are most effective for meeting clients' needs. Students in this course study basic descriptive and inferential statistical methods commonly used in the social sciences, and they work toward developing the skills to write, analyze, and critique social science research. Students explore various methods, including computation and analysis of frequency distributions, measures of central tendency, and statistical hypothesis testing. Students also examine statistical tests (and underlying assumptions), including z-score; single-sample, independent-sample, and related-sample t tests; analysis of variance; correlation; regression; and chi-square tests. This course also provides an introduction to the SPSS statistical software package.

5 credits

Students in this course are provided with an introduction to the field of professional counseling and the foundations of counseling. Students explore the history, philosophy, cultural dynamics, and trends in professional counseling. They examine consultation as well as client and counselor advocacy, focusing on the counselor’s role as social change agent. Students also examine and apply ethical standards of the counseling profession, including the American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics and counselor ethical decision-making processes. Through a final reflective project designed to influence their future ethical framework, students define their ethical perspectives, including influences, values, and goals.

5 credits

Students in this course are introduced to evaluation research as well as build a foundation in the design of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method approaches to counseling research and evaluation. Students learn the strengths and limitations of each method and under what circumstances each approach would be the most appropriate research design. Students learn how to identify a topic for research, how to conduct a literature search, and the importance of scholarly writing. Other topics include the history and theory underlying program evaluation, approaches to evaluation, procedures and techniques for entering a group for which one would provide evaluation services, and techniques used to perform the evaluation, strategies for getting gatekeepers to be invested in the development of the research and in the outcomes, demonstration of program effectiveness, and dissemination of results to stakeholders. Students learn to write a research proposal, addressing the following key elements: researching, writing an introduction, stating a purpose for the study, identifying research questions and hypotheses, using theory, defining the significance of the study, and collecting and analyzing data. Students are exposed to legal and ethical issues associated with human subjects' protection.

5 credits

Students in this course focus on developing counseling techniques and skills. They practice and receive feedback on their demonstration of techniques and skills such as opening and closing a counseling session, attending, paraphrasing, confrontation, and self-disclosure, among others, including the use of creative techniques. Students also evaluate the appropriate use of counseling techniques and skills. 

Note: Students are required to have access to a video recording device, a tripod, and an audio recording device, which they begin using during the second week of class and four more times throughout the term.

5 credits

This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the personal and systemic impact of crises, disasters, and other trauma-causing events on individuals, couples, families, and communities. Students examine theories and response models as they relate to sexual trauma, crisis in individuals and families, crisis in the community, and crisis in the nation and in the world. They explore and discuss topics related to counselor competencies, vicarious trauma and counter transference, specific diagnoses, and advocacy. Students also engage in assignments designed to provide practical application of crisis assessment. Through contemporary articles and case studies, they consider and discuss cultural, legal, and ethical issues related to crisis, trauma, and disaster events and response.

5 credits

Professionals in all areas of public policy and administration work with individuals and organizations of different cultures on a daily basis; therefore, global consciousness is vital to effective communication and interaction in the field. In this course, students explore and analyze the cultural values and styles of communication, reasoning, and leadership unique to their home culture. Students apply these concepts to better understand the people, values, and policies of other cultures. They also identify and become familiar with challenges that American nonprofit organizations face as they work internationally or cross-culturally within the United States. Sharpening critical-thinking skills, students research and assess an organization within their own community that has international links; through this assessment, students gain further awareness of different cultures and the importance of cross-cultural ties.

Prerequisites

• A course or direct experience in nonprofit management is strongly advised.

5 credits

Professionals in all areas of public policy and administration work with individuals and organizations of different cultures on a daily basis; therefore, global consciousness is vital to effective communication and interaction in the field. In this course, students explore and analyze the cultural values and styles of communication, reasoning, and leadership unique to their home culture. Students apply these concepts to better understand the people, values, and policies of other cultures. They also identify and become familiar with challenges that American nonprofit organizations face as they work internationally or cross-culturally within the United States. Sharpening critical-thinking skills, students research and assess an organization within their own community that has international links; through this assessment, students gain further awareness of different cultures and the importance of cross-cultural ties.

Prerequisites

• A course or direct experience in nonprofit management is strongly advised.

5 credits

In this course, students study in depth the cultures, structures, and activities of NGOs in select countries and compare their activities, organizational cultures, structures, and working environments with nonprofits in the United States.

5 credits

Decision- and policymakers must possess a fundamental understanding of crime theory, including the history of crime development, to be able to address knowledgeably and effectively modern issues of crime. In this course, students explore the evolution of crime and punishment, including lone criminals to worldwide syndicates, using the scientific rigor built into selected readings, peer discussions, and practical assignments. They examine the philosophy of community- and problem-oriented policing, transnational crime, terrorism, and the new nexus between them. Employing quantitative and qualitative research methods, students continue their assessment of contemporary issues of crime. They also learn to use existing information to consider new methods of addressing crime. In this class, students who are current leaders or those hoping to enter a leadership role establish a framework upon which to build the knowledge and depth of understanding to assess and manage the opportunities, innovations, and challenges in their profession.

5 credits

Criminal justice professionals must understand the various factors that influence the development of criminal justice policy, and how to evaluate whether existing policy meets its objectives. In this course, students will examine the principles of policy analysis and the role that scientific information plays in the development of criminal justice policy. Topics explored include policing, corrections, and sentencing; juvenile justice; the relationship among drugs, race, and crime; deterrence as a crime control policy; and the use of public registries. Through further analysis of criminal justice policies, students determine how these policies have changed over time, gaining insight into possible future trends of policy development and analysis.

5 credits

There are many challenges plaguing the criminal justice system, from economic hardship to growing threats of terrorism. Leaders in the system must be adept in problem-solving, and they must possess the ability to think critically and proactively. Through this course, students are introduced to the problems that currently confront the criminal justice system administration as well as problems predicted for the future. Students prepare to lead efforts to address these challenges by engaging in practical assignments focusing on powerful models for strategic, critical, and reflective thinking. Students also engage in discussions about the major components of effective justice administration, including organizational thought and theory, leadership, human capital, policy development and implementation, and collaboration with other public safety and community organizations.

5 credits

Professionals must devote considerable attention to forensic psychology perspectives and approaches to address issues such as the overpopulation of prisons; decrease in healthcare availability; and cases in which courts remand treatment in community settings. Students in this course examine forensic psychology theories and perspectives, and then they apply these concepts to various community settings. They engage in practical assignments and topical readings that focus on working with offenders upon re-entry to the community and offenders who receive nonincarceration community placements. In addition, students explore less-common applications, such as restorative justice and community crime prevention. They also analyze the impact of personal perspectives and setting on the application of forensic psychology.

5 credits

Students in this course achieve an advanced understanding of theories and techniques for working with couples, marriages, and families. The focus of this course is on empirically supported treatments and techniques for addressing prevention; intervention; development; and wellness of marriages, couples, and families. Systemic implications for conceptualization, assessment, treatment planning, and interventions will be addressed. Students will be exposed to procedures for critically evaluating relevant research and to methods for applying findings to their counseling with these groups. Methods of adapting models to meet the needs of a diverse society as well as legal and ethical issues related to working in this specialty area will be explored.

5 credits

Students in this course build a framework for understanding human sexuality in the context of couple, marriage, and family counseling. They explore empirically supported counseling approaches related to sexual functioning, intimacy, gender, and sexual orientation. Students are exposed to a systemic framework for understanding the role and impact of sexuality on couples, marriages, and families. Students explore specific topics related to issues of sexual diversity, gender identity, sexual offending, trauma, and victimization. Legal and ethical issues related to addressing sexuality in counseling are addressed.

5 credits

Students in this course engage in a collaborative study of the changing strategic context of public administration. Students apply a systems perspective to construct a public enterprise “mental” model of a public organization to understand the strategic context for practical action and the stakeholder relations involved. Students demonstrate their knowledge of the interrelated flows of money, knowledge, and influence, as they weave these elements in their model. They engage in readings and practical assignments that emphasize management and leadership in a time of unprecedented and unpredictable change. Students also work toward developing professional-action habits for pragmatic-action learning in the practice of public administration.

5 credits

In today's complex environment, leaders engaged in shaping public policy must know how to use the emotional as well as the intellectual power of language to motivate, inspire, and competently manage their organizations. Dynamic leadership requires understanding and use of techniques that affect both conscious and unconscious influences on human behavior. Effective communication connects at many different levels. Students acquire both theoretical and practical information that demonstrates the necessary components for making such connections and that shows them why stories, symbols, and metaphors are essential elements in the language of leadership.

5 credits

The specific focus of this course is on combat trauma, crisis, and stress experiences and responses of military personnel—both wartime and post-war. Students develop an understanding of the short-term and long-term impact of post-traumatic stress and vicarious trauma. In addition to focusing on how combat and wartime experiences impact individual military personnel, students also explore the effects on families. As a result, students will be better prepared to provide services and mental health support to military personnel dealing with trauma, crisis, and stress.

5 credits

The nature of military work responsibilities impacts not only military personnel but their families as well. Frequent family relocations, extensive deployments, parent-child separation, and high-risk jobs all contribute to unique family dynamics. This course is designed to educate students about the experience and unique support needs of military personnel and their families.

5 credits

This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of military culture. The focus of this course is on understanding the world of work for military personnel; the sociocultural identity development of military personnel; the experience of military families; support for military personnel and their families; and socioeconomic and other lifestyle challenges for military personnel. As a result of this course, students will be more informed about the mental health and social support needs of these populations.

5 credits

Ethics is a foundational element of leadership. In this course, students examine the philosophy of ethics as well as responsibility and social justice—basic tenets of public service. Students explore the complex social, political, and related ethical challenges leaders face as they seek to meet the needs of diverse constituents. They examine ethics and social justice related to economic disparity, power, and privilege. Students also assess demographic data and current social trends and themes to understand, analyze, and address ethical and social justice issues that impact service delivery in a global community. Applying concepts presented in the course, students engage in an in-depth assessment of an emerging or persistent ethical or social justice issue, through which they demonstrate their ability to make recommendations for improvement or change.

5 credits

Sound financial practices are crucial to managing scarce funds in both public and nonprofit operations. Students in this course examine finance and budgeting concepts, policies, and practices related to organizations as well as the fiscal climate within which they operate. They assess theories for motivating major fiscal-policy debates, and they explore and discuss auditing practices, tax systems, financial management, budgetary reform, financial technology systems, the use of dashboards for financial reporting, and the impact of globalization on finance and budget. Students read and analyze budgets, financial statements, and reports. They contextualize their learning as they apply knowledge gained from their analysis to develop a new budget and financial plan for either a public or private organization.

5 credits

Government officials, research programs, and NGOs are increasingly expected to make better and more transparent use of evidence in producing viable policy options within highly complex policy environments that are heavily influenced by power and politics. Public policy analysis has been described as the art and craft of speaking truth to power (Wildavsky, 1987) in seeking ways to promote positive social change in these complex environments. Policy analysis within this context requires several distinct skill sets: an understanding of the policy context, technical knowledge and analytical tools to identify and apply evidence ethically and with professional judgment, an appreciation and engagement of the concerns and contributions of diverse stakeholders, and the ability to develop and communicate practical policy advice.

This course is framed around Bardach and Patashnik's eightfold path, which lays out a series of iterative, not necessarily sequential, steps to follow when analyzing a policy issue and uses design thinking to guide the process. Students examine key concepts of public policy analysis through evidence-based research to locate issues in relation to theory and current trends. This course provides project-based opportunities to practice and gain the skills and knowledge to use evidence to shape policy more effectively.

Prerequisites

• MMPA 6116 or HUMN 8000 or HUMN 6000 or HUMN 8001 or SOCW 8002 or SOCW 8002W or MMHA 6000 or MMHA 6000A or HLTH 8003A or HLTH 8003 or HLTH 8003E or HLTH 8003B or NURS 8003

5 credits

In an increasingly complex world, leaders and managers in public and nonprofit organizations plan strategies to fulfill the organizational mission and enhance stakeholder satisfaction. Students in this course explore the role and process of strategic planning, including collaboration, cooperation, and coordination. They also examine the benefits, challenges, and pitfalls of strategic planning, in addition to the impact of globalization. Students apply these concepts to real-life scenarios and develop a strategic plan for a nonprofit or public organization.

5 credits

In this course, students gain the foundational knowledge necessary to evaluate and subsequently treat many different forensic populations, such as sex offenders, substance abusers, and white-collar criminals. Students analyze the use of traditional forms of intervention, including individual and group psychotherapy, as well as recent developments in intervention, such as restorative justice. Applying concepts and theories learned in the course, students develop a project scenario in which they feature an offender and describe treatment approaches as well as related ethical, legal, and multicultural factors that may impact treatment. Reflecting on the course, students also consider and discuss professional identity and goals.

5 credits

In this course, students focus on the various aspects of the juvenile justice system and the population that it serves. Students receive an overview of development theories, such as biological, cognitive, social-emotional, and social. Students apply these theories to cases of juvenile delinquency to determine appropriate prevention, treatment, and intervention strategies. They examine juvenile justice codes, case law, and effective methods for reporting offenses. Students also explore the changing landscape of the juvenile justice field based on current research of its population. Using theories presented in the course, students develop a delinquency-prevention or treatment program for their community, focusing on the underlying goal of social justice and change.

5 credits

Students in this course focus specifically on the process of writing the dissertation prospectus. Students use their preliminary research plan, developed previously, and develop a problem statement, to be used in the dissertation. They further refine the problem statement and carry out the planning and the library research that will bring them to the formulation of a dissertation prospectus. The prospectus is a brief paper, typically 15–20 pages in length, that lays out the background for the problem statement, the problem statement itself, a survey of the relevant literature, typically 25–75 references, and a research, implementation, and evaluation plan for the solution of the problem.

Prerequisites

• RSCH 8110
• RSCH 8210
• RSCH 8310

5 credits

The success of nonprofit organizations (NPOs) is highly dependent on volunteers: the effective governance provided by the volunteer board of directors and the management of program volunteers—individuals who often serve as the lifeblood of NPOs. Students in this course explore the board governance process. They focus on methods that organizations use to create and maintain an effective board of directors to ensure that the board governs and guides the organization toward their mission. Students also explore board member recruitment, orientation, training, supervision, and evaluation; and they reflect on the use of those practices for program volunteers. Students create a five-section guide that includes a board development and volunteer management plan based on processes presented in the course and fundamental concepts acquired earlier in the program.

5 credits

Volunteers are the lifeblood of many nonprofit organizations. These organizations rely heavily on their volunteer board of directors to govern and guide them toward their mission. The success of nonprofit organizations is largely dependent on the effective management of program volunteers and board members. This course explores the volunteer management process, including volunteer recruitment, orientation, training, supervision, and evaluation, with an emphasis on creating and maintaining an effective board of directors. Students design a board development or volunteer management plan based on the concept paper they developed in the Introduction to the Nonprofit Sector course.

5 credits

This capstone course is the culmination of the MS in Human Services program. In this course, students have the opportunity to demonstrate senior case management skills and their understanding of the responsibility and leadership of the advanced human services professional practitioner to advocate for social change with service users, organizations, communities, and the human services profession. Students also demonstrate methods of advanced human services practice within local, national, and international organizations. Students continue to enhance their professional development plans by preparing for professional opportunities.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 8785
• HUMN 8160
• HUMN 8162

5 credits

In this course, students analyze and evaluate theories of social and personal change. Students engage in a variety of conceptual and application assignments focused on power and social inequalities, ethnic inequalities, global environment, and issues related to gender and sexism, such as homophobia. In addition, students examine the impact of social change theories on children, families, and societies. They explore the concepts of change agent and change advocate as well as the role of the psychologist as change agent. Students also engage in an integrative written assignment to synthesize theories and analyze a current social problem in their community, for which they propose an action to address the issue and drive positive social change.

5 credits

Students in this course focus on the theories of social and personal change. Topics include power and social inequalities, ethnic inequalities, global environment and social change, issues related to gender and sexism, and homophobia. In addition, students are presented with impact of social change theories on children, families, and societies. The concepts of change agent and change advocate are explored, as well as the role of the psychologist as change agent.

5 credits

Students in this course explore the cultural components, research, and theory of cross-cultural psychology. In addition to the previously listed goals, students focus on the impact that culture has on the field of psychology around the world. The scope of this course is broad, with the core theme being cross-cultural psychology (focusing on cultures representing different parts of the world) and comparing cultural influence on human psychology. Many of the topics addressed in the course are related to human development. Additionally, interactions between culture and social behaviors, health, mental health, and mental illnesses are emphasized throughout the duration of this course.

5 credits

In this course, students are introduced to the seminal theories and practices of alternative dispute resolution (ADR). They explore conflict analysis, negotiation, and mediation strategies. Through a series of case studies, virtual role plays, and simulation exercises, students gain insight into the practice of ADR, and they have the opportunity to develop some effective negotiation and mediation skills. Students gain a greater understanding of the differences between principled and positional negotiation and mediation, including such professional concepts as fairness, integrity, trust, and confidentiality.

5 credits

This course introduces theories of counseling and psychotherapy to prepare students to conceptualize problems and respond with appropriate, evidence-based interventions and techniques. Students will become familiar with the origin, key concepts, and interventions and techniques of each of the theories presented. Students will develop an awareness of how counseling theories drive the treatment process and apply theories to diverse case studies. A major focus of this course is to support students as they develop their personal theoretical orientation.

5 credits

The impact of substance abuse on the lives of people with addictions, and the lives of their families, makes for a highly complex and challenging area of mental health counseling. Counselors working with these individuals must possess a comprehensive understanding of the background, controversies, and current approaches in regard to the treatment of substance abuse. In this course, students examine psychological aspects of addictions involving alcohol, prescription medications, and illegal substances. They also examine current research in the field of dependency and addiction. Students engage in a variety of conceptual and application-based assignments on diagnosing patients, choosing among models of treatment, planning treatment, using group and family treatment plans, and ensuring treatment efficacy. They also consider strategies to promote change, including the trans-theoretical model of behavior change.

5 credits

Many sources define terrorism as a type of psychological warfare, as it induces fear and feelings of vulnerability. Therefore, professionals need to understand all aspects of terrorism to help prevent further terroristic acts and respond to victims who have been affected psychologically. Students in this course explore terrorism from a psychological perspective. They examine types of terrorism; contributing factors related to the development of terrorists and terrorist organizations; counterterrorism agencies and laws; the impact of terrorist events on individuals, families, and communities; prevention, intervention, and postvention with survivors; media coverage of terrorist events; human rights and ethical issues; and future trends related to the psychology of terrorism. Students also examine the threat of terrorism in their own community and evaluate the potential impact. Using concepts presented in the course, they consider applications for preventative measures as well as strategies to promote resiliency among individual and families who may become victims of terrorism.

5 credits

Through this course, students engage in a study of conflict, conflict resolution, and peace from psychological and social psychological perspectives. Students examine the concept of conflict and methods of addressing it, including management, resolution, and transformation; theories related to conflict resolution; approaches to conflict resolution, including negotiation and third-party interventions; and social psychological factors that influence conflict and conflict resolution. They also consider the influence of culture in conflict and conflict resolution; the role of ethics; intractable and international conflicts; the concept of peace; and how third-party approaches can contribute to the peace process. Students apply conflict resolution approaches to conflicts at all levels, from interpersonal to those involving whole nations.

5 credits

An understanding of the psychological principles of leader development often enhances leadership skills and ability to influence others to work toward common goals. In this course, students examine the psychology of leadership and leader development through cross-cultural, social, psychological, and political contexts. They identify and assess the psychological theories of leadership, leadership styles, qualities of great leaders, global leadership competencies, and instruments used to assess leadership and leadership potential. Students apply these psychological theories to assess and develop their own capacity for leadership.

5 credits

The intent of leadership coaching is to facilitate psychological change that leads to goal attainment and enhanced performance. In this course, students apply evidence-based psychological approaches to coaching case studies. They assess coaching roles and settings; skills and competencies; models and frameworks; and current issues and future trends. Students employ critical-thinking skills and synthesize concepts learned in the course to develop a plan for implementing effective coaching in a real-world setting.

5 credits

International and cross-cultural factors often influence organizational, group, and team processes and functions. Students in this course examine workplace issues arising from diverse cultural contexts. Students explore international and cultural comparisons of work motivation, communication, leadership, and decision making as well as organizational structures and characteristics. They examine sources, management of conflict, and conflict resolution strategies. Students also have the opportunity to gain practical insight as they assess and present to the class an international or cross-cultural issue in an organization.

5 credits

Students in this course explore instructional design for the development of online courses. Different types of online courses and the roles of online instructors are addressed. Students analyze learning theories and approaches for promoting community in online classrooms. Students analyze criteria for developing learning objectives and online instructional strategies in relation to diverse student populations. Issues related to technology, copyright compliance, fair use, and academic integrity are explored. Students analyze assessment and evaluation approaches and explore future trends in online higher education in relation to delivery of instruction and positive social change.

5 credits

Small- and large-scale disasters affect diverse populations. Agencies and organizations that respond to crises need effective executive leaders who can plan for future disasters, mitigate existing ones, and evaluate their response to past crises. In this course, students develop an understanding of leadership skills for pre-crisis, crisis, and post-crisis applications. Through the analysis of past crises and evaluation of case studies in discussions and assignments, students will apply leadership skills as an executive leader in human services. Employing concepts learned in this course, students will create a crisis management plan.

5 credits

In this course, students prepare for their roles as change agents in the human services profession. Throughout the course, students focus on a specific social problem they are passionate about and plan for a community needs assessment to address the problem. As they do so, they examine how prevention, advocacy, and consultation are used to effect positive social change. Students also discuss a variety of social change topics with their peers, such as the language of social change, the use of systems thinking to better understand and address social problems, the emergence and progress of social justice issues, and the strategies for effecting global social change.

5 credits

Advocacy at its best means promoting social change through unified voices of the community, needs-based decision-making, and protection of the rights and interests of the community. For advanced human services professional practitioners, advocacy is critical in supporting individuals, families, communities, and organizations in driving social change. Human services professional practitioners are often called on by the community to be the voice for those who need one. In this course, students explore the critical role of advocacy in social change, how to be an advocate, and how to create community-based, actionable change. In preparation for the capstone project, students examine the value of a white paper in driving change and construct an outline for a white paper that will become part of their capstone.

5 credits

Legal decisions and the law often have a major impact on the creation of public policy. In this course, students explore and discuss the relationship between laws and public policy and the impact that court decisions have on policy and policy leaders. They examine the role of administrative agencies in the creation and execution of law and public policy and the role of the courts in resolving challenges to agency rule making; conflicts between executive and legislative branches of government; and conflicts between and among federal, state, and local laws. Students have the opportunity to sharpen their critical-thinking and research-database skills as they search for real-world examples of how fundamental legal concepts and processes affect the creation and execution of law and public policy.

5 credits

Students in this course are introduced to the basic concepts and practice of community psychology. Guiding values and assumptions of the field, basic ecological concepts, and models of intervention are examined. Topics include diversity in community psychology, social change, primary and secondary prevention, community mental health, empowerment, stress, and resiliency.

5 credits

Great improvements in medicine, public health, science, and technology enable today's older adults to live healthier, longer lives. In this course, students will explore theories and practices for providing services to older adults who remain independent and vibrant members of their families and communities. Students will delve into models of aging in place, including ways of assessing health and social and economic needs, as well as identifying and prioritizing options in physical, mental, emotional, and intellectual health promotion activities and programs.

5 credits

Effective community leaders must be familiar with a wide range of tools, strategies, and skills to create sustainable communities. In this course, students examine these elements to learn how leaders build capacity for community change; assess community needs and resources; create community visions; promote stakeholder interest and participation; analyze community problems; and carry out practices and interventions to improve sustainability in communities. They also explore sustainability frameworks and models, and they apply these and other concepts presented in the course to develop a proposal for sustainable community development, focusing on community assessment, stakeholder involvement, and development planning.

5 credits

Strategic leadership and planning are required to effectively prevent, respond to, and recover from critical incidents that threaten homeland security. Students in this course explore the role and importance of leadership and planning in critical incident management and the application of tools, strategies, and systems to specific critical incidents. Through the evaluation of case students, students examine the impact of critical incidents on individuals and communities as well as roles of government agencies and nongovernment organizations in managing such incidents. Using concepts and theories presented in the course, students develop a critical incident management plan for their community though which they consider new strategies and perspectives in regard to critical incident leadership and planning.

5 credits

All nonprofit organizations require financial resources. Obtaining philanthropic financial support is essential to program delivery and stability. Students explore the concepts of philanthropy and development, identification of funding sources, donor/prospect cultivation and education, and solicitation and appreciation strategies. An emphasis is placed on creating an organizational philanthropic culture based on ethics and donor relationships. Students create a resource development plan for the organization designed in the Introduction to the Nonprofit Sector course.

5 credits

In this course, students analyze and evaluate theories of social and personal change. Students engage in a variety of conceptual and application assignments focused on power and social inequalities, ethnic inequalities, global environment, and issues related to gender and sexism, such as homophobia. In addition, students examine the impact of social change theories on children, families, and societies. They explore the concepts of change agent and change advocate as well as the role of the psychologist as change agent. Students also engage in an integrative written assignment to synthesize theories and analyze a current social problem in their community, for which they propose an action to address the issue and drive positive social change.

5 credits

Students in this course examine several different aspects of the law related to mental health issues. Laws and court decisions that affect the practice of psychology—such as the Tarasoff ruling, mandated reporting, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)—are addressed, as are the many areas of law that constitute forensic psychological practice, including civil matters (such as personal injury and civil competency issues) and criminal matters (such as competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, diminished capacity, and death penalty issues).

5 credits per term for a minimum of three terms until completion

Through this course, doctoral students have the opportunity to integrate their Program of Study into an in-depth exploration of an interest area that includes the completion of a research study. Students complete the dissertation independently, with the guidance of a dissertation supervisory committee chair and committee members. Students complete a prospectus, proposal, Institutional Review Board application, and dissertation. Once students register for HUMN 9001, they are registered each term until successful completion of the dissertation.

Students take this course for a minimum of three quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.

To complete a dissertation, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the chief academic officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation process in the Dissertation Guidebook.

Prerequisites

• All prior coursework

1 credit

This course is the first part of the capstone journey. The community created here becomes part of the student's program for five quarters, and the goal is to prepare for the dissertation study—the culminating work in the program. In this community classroom, students meet their doctoral mentor and other students. They discuss ideas related to applied research, writing, and project planning. As a human services professional practitioner at the doctoral level, students are preparing to be leaders in applying research to practice in the field. This community of practice and research can prepare students to develop an applied study in a human services area important to them. Students become familiar with Walden's resources that support human services field research development, strategies to organize research, research methods and resources, and finding a research question for their study. In the fifth quarter, students draft their prospectus in preparation to conduct their study.

Note: Students are continuously registered in the Communities of Practice and Research course (1–5) for five terms.

1 credit

This course is the first part of the capstone journey. The community created here becomes part of the student's program for five quarters, and the goal is to prepare for the dissertation study—the culminating work in the program. In this community classroom, students meet their doctoral mentor and other students. They discuss ideas related to applied research, writing, and project planning. As a human services professional practitioner at the doctoral level, students are preparing to be leaders in applying research to practice in the field. This community of practice and research can prepare students to develop an applied study in a human services area important to them. Students become familiar with Walden's resources that support human services field research development, strategies to organize research, research methods and resources, and finding a research question for their study. In the fifth quarter, students draft their prospectus in preparation to conduct their study.

Note: Students are continuously registered in the Communities of Practice and Research course (1–5) for five terms.

1 credit

This course is the next part of the capstone journey. The community created here becomes part of the student's program for five quarters, and the goal is to prepare for the dissertation study—the culminating work in the program. In this community classroom, students meet their doctoral mentor and other students. They discuss ideas related to applied research, writing, and project planning. As a human services professional practitioner at the doctoral level, students are preparing to be leaders in applying research to practice in the field. This community of practice and research can prepare students to develop an applied study in a human services area important to them. Students become familiar with Walden's resources that support human services field research development, strategies to organize research, research methods and resources, and finding a research question for their study. In the fifth quarter, students draft their prospectus in preparation to conduct their study.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 9001A

Note: Students are continuously registered in the Communities of Practice and Research course (1–5) for five terms.

1 credit

This course is the next part of the capstone journey. The community created here becomes part of the student's program for five quarters, and the goal is to prepare for the dissertation study—the culminating work in the program. In this community classroom, students meet their doctoral mentor and other students. They discuss ideas related to applied research, writing, and project planning. As a human services professional practitioner at the doctoral level, students are preparing to be leaders in applying research to practice in the field. This community of practice and research can prepare students to develop an applied study in a human services area important to them. Students become familiar with Walden's resources that support human services field research development, strategies to organize research, research methods and resources, and finding a research question for their study. In the fifth quarter, students draft their prospectus in preparation to conduct their study.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 9001A or HUMN 9001D

Note: Students are continuously registered in the Communities of Practice and Research course (1–5) for five terms.

1 credit

This course is the next part of the capstone journey. The community created here becomes part of the student's program for five quarters, and the goal is to prepare for the dissertation study—the culminating work in the program. In this community classroom, students meet their doctoral mentor and other students. They discuss ideas related to applied research, writing, and project planning. As a human services professional practitioner at the doctoral level, students are preparing to be leaders in applying research to practice in the field. This community of practice and research can prepare students to develop an applied study in a human services area important to them. Students become familiar with Walden's resources that support human services field research development, strategies to organize research, research methods and resources, and finding a research question for their study. In the fifth quarter, students draft their prospectus in preparation to conduct their study.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 9002A

Note: Students are continuously registered in the Communities of Practice and Research course (1–5) for five terms.

1 credit

This course is the next part of the capstone journey. The community created here becomes part of the student's program for five quarters, and the goal is to prepare for the dissertation study—the culminating work in the program. In this community classroom, students meet their doctoral mentor and other students. They discuss ideas related to applied research, writing, and project planning. As a human services professional practitioner at the doctoral level, students are preparing to be leaders in applying research to practice in the field. This community of practice and research can prepare students to develop an applied study in a human services area important to them. Students become familiar with Walden's resources that support human services field research development, strategies to organize research, research methods and resources, and finding a research question for their study. In the fifth quarter, students draft their prospectus in preparation to conduct their study.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 9002A or HUMN 9002D

Note: Students are continuously registered in the Communities of Practice and Research course (1–5) for five terms.

1 credit

This course is the next part of the capstone journey. The community created here becomes part of the student's program for five quarters, and the goal is to prepare for the dissertation study—the culminating work in the program. In this community classroom, students meet their doctoral mentor and other students. They discuss ideas related to applied research, writing, and project planning. As a human services professional practitioner at the doctoral level, students are preparing to be leaders in applying research to practice in the field. This community of practice and research can prepare students to develop an applied study in a human services area important to them. Students become familiar with Walden's resources that support human services field research development, strategies to organize research, research methods and resources, and finding a research question for their study. In the fifth quarter, students draft their prospectus in preparation to conduct their study.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 9003A

Note: Students are continuously registered in the Communities of Practice and Research course (1–5) for five terms.

1 credit

This course is the next part of the capstone journey. The community created here becomes part of the student's program for five quarters, and the goal is to prepare for the dissertation study—the culminating work in the program. In this community classroom, students meet their doctoral mentor and other students. They discuss ideas related to applied research, writing, and project planning. As a human services professional practitioner at the doctoral level, students are preparing to be leaders in applying research to practice in the field. This community of practice and research can prepare students to develop an applied study in a human services area important to them. Students become familiar with Walden's resources that support human services field research development, strategies to organize research, research methods and resources, and finding a research question for their study. In the fifth quarter, students draft their prospectus in preparation to conduct their study.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 9003A or HUMN 9003D

Note: Students are continuously registered in the Communities of Practice and Research course (1–5) for five terms.

1 credit

This course is the next part of the capstone journey. The community created here becomes part of the student's program for five quarters, and the goal is to prepare for the dissertation study—the culminating work in the program. In this community classroom, students meet their doctoral mentor and other students. They discuss ideas related to applied research, writing, and project planning. As a human services professional practitioner at the doctoral level, students are preparing to be leaders in applying research to practice in the field. This community of practice and research can prepare students to develop an applied study in a human services area important to them. Students become familiar with Walden's resources that support human services field research development, strategies to organize research, research methods and resources, and finding a research question for their study. In the fifth quarter, students draft their prospectus in preparation to conduct their study.

Prerequisites

• HUMN 9004A

Note: Students are continuously registered in the Communities of Practice and Research course (1–5) for five terms.

1 credit

This course is the next part of the capstone journey. The community created here becomes part of the student's program for five quarters, and the goal is to prepare for the dissertation study—the culminating work in the program. In this community classroom, students meet their doctoral mentor and other students. They discuss ideas related to applied research, writing, and project planning. As a human services professional practitioner at the doctoral level, students are preparing to be leaders in applying research to practice in the field. This community of practice and research can prepare students to develop an applied study in a human services area important to them. Students become familiar with Walden's resources that support human services field research development, strategies to organize research, research methods and resources, and finding a research question for their study. In the fifth quarter, students draft their prospectus in preparation to conduct their study.

Note: Students are continuously registered in the Communities of Practice and Research course (1–5) for five terms.

5 credits

The final doctoral capstone/project demonstrates students' scholarly ability to examine, critique, and synthesize knowledge and experience, so that new ideas can be tested; best practices identified, established, and verified; and theoretical, practice, or policy constructs evaluated and advanced. Doctoral students can integrate their program of study into an in-depth exploration of an interest area, culminating in the completion of their capstone/project in this course. Students complete the capstone/project independently, with the guidance of a Supervisory Committee Chair and committee members. Students complete a Prospectus, Proposal, Research Ethics Review (IRB), and a final written capstone/project and oral presentation. The order and format of the various steps vary based on the professional doctoral program and capstone/project type. Be sure to follow the guidance in the appropriate capstone/project Guidebook and use the checklists, rubric, and writing templates for your program and your specific capstone/project type.

Prerequisites

• All coursework including Communities of Practice and Research courses must be completed.

5 credits

[Under development]

Prerequisites

• All coursework including Communities of Practice and Research courses must be completed.