What’s in a Homelessness Course? Findings from a Content Analysis of BSW and MSW Course Syllabi

Little is known about if and how social work programs are preparing students to work with people experiencing homelessness or in homelessness-related macro and policy spaces. This study identified 18 programs that offer a BSW and/or MSW homelessness course, which yielded 22 unique course syllabi. Using content analysis, the primary aim was to understand how homelessness is taught across programs, including the course objectives used, topics and populations addressed, and to what extent courses focused on micro, macro, and policy topics. Course objectives most often addressed background knowledge on homelessness and related service offerings. The most common topics addressed in course descriptions and sessions/modules were non-housing-specific policy issues; describing the size, scope, and nature of homelessness; and services, service delivery, and service models. Topics receiving the least attention included race/racism, oppression, and social justice. Recommendations include reflecting on how an existing or potential course fits within the program’s curriculum, aligning course content with the new CSWE competencies, and ensuring consistency between descriptions, objectives, and session/module topics.