SWO 701 Transformation, Inspiration, and Inclusion: Social Work Leadership for the Future

As the first leadership course in the DSW program, this course sets the foundation for students to develop skills for leadership roles. This course acknowledges the range of leadership experiences DSW students bring to the program and the potential to expand leader-manager roles following program completion. It covers a variety of leadership theories and perspectives, challenging students to develop and assess their own leadership style, with a particular emphasis on inclusive leadership. Building on the work of Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership, the course puts significant attention on leadership values of diversity, equity, respect, cultural intelligence, and collaboration. Specific skills such as leadership, including assessment, communication, human capital development, decision making, and collaboration are explored. The course culminates with a focus on leadership for the future through the exploration of innovation, technology, and change. Throughout the course, students are required to apply course materials to practice situations and develop strategies for social work leadership.