School of Social Work Minors

Gerontology Minor

Gerontology addresses the specific challenges of the aging process by promoting independence, autonomy, and dignity in later life. The minor in Gerontology is approved by the Association of Gerontology in Higher Education. The minor in Gerontology requires the completion of 18 credit hours.

Specific courses include:

• Intro to Gerontology
• Problems Aging
• Social Gerontology
• Aging & Social Policy
• Transitioning to End of Life
• Black Aged

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Criminal Justice Minor

Students may pursue a Criminal Justice minor to complement their Social Work major. The Criminal Justice minor can allow students to deepen their understanding of the legal system and enhance their ability to work in justice-related social work settings. The minor in Criminal Justice requires completion of 18 credit hours.

Specific courses include:

• Intro to Criminal Justice
• Intro to Criminal Law
• Law Enforcement
• Courts
• Corrections
• Criminal Justice Elective

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Interdisciplinary Intelligence Studies Minor

Students who participate in degree offerings in Interdisciplinary Intelligence Studies are eligible to receive numerous benefits, including free attendance at BGS-IC-CAE workshops and colloquia, opportunities to network with potential employers from intelligence and security agencies at the local, state, and national levels, and opportunities for students and faculty to present their research at a state-wide venue. Graduates who have knowledge, training, and experience in intelligence and security related areas are more competitive for employment at local, regional, and national intelligence and security agencies. These courses will increase KSU student preparation in an area in which graduates are highly sought after by agency employers who are seeking to diversify the workforce, thereby providing an opportunity for KSU to enhance important metrics related to funding and accreditation. The minor in Interdisciplinary Intelligence Studies requires completion of 18 credit hours.

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Psychology Minor

A minor in psychology complements a bachelor's degree in Social Work by deepening the understanding of human behavior, mental health, and cognitive processes. It enhances a social worker's ability to assess and diagnose mental health issues, improve client interactions, and apply effective crisis intervention strategies. With knowledge in psychology, social workers can offer more empathetic, holistic care and tailor interventions based on clients' psychological needs. Additionally, this combination broadens career opportunities in fields like mental health counseling and therapy, making graduates more well-rounded and effective in their roles.The minor in Psychology requires completion of 18 credit hours.

Specific courses include:

• Behavioral and Social Sciences
• Theories/Methods Devel Psy
• Abnormal Psychology or Personality Theory

The remaining 6 semester credit hours must be selected in consualtion with the student's minor advisor from 300/400 level PSY or BSS courses. Students must complete PSY 200 as part of the Liberal Studies Requirement.