The minor in social welfare provides the student with a comprehensive background of study in social welfare in the United States; its relationship to the market economy; and the historical, political and cultural factors that shape its course. The minor also offers the opportunity to explore, in depth, some of the challenging issues confronting society in the alleviation of poverty and the delivery of health and welfare services to families and children, older people and individuals with mental and physical challenges. This knowledge will be of particular importance to students planning careers in government, the private sector, law and health. To earn a minor in social welfare, students must complete the following 18 credits of course work with a grade of C or better in all courses to be applied to the minor. Courses are divided as follows: