Part-Time Faculty: SWK 754: Death, Dying, and Terminal Illness (Spring 2027)

The School of Education seeks a Part-Time instructor to teach SWK 754: Death, Dying, and Terminal Illness (Spring 2027). Death, dying, terminal illness, and coping with trauma and loss impacting individuals, families, and identified social networks. Social work practice, theory, and ethics surrounding the dying process. Companion animals considered. Requires prior clinical coursework.

This position requires teaching in person on the Syracuse University campus in Syracuse, New York. Please confirm that you are available and able to teach in person on campus if selected for this position.

Course Overview

The primary aim of this course is to explore the meaning of death, terminal illness, and coping strategies associated therewith. Theoretical consideration is given to aspects of dying and the death process. Attention to areas of social work practice vis-à-vis ethical and practice issues of the dying patient and loved ones adjusting to interpersonal loss will be covered. Attention is also given to the human-animal bond and the loss of a beloved animal companion.

Rudiments of comprehensive service provision to the terminally ill and bereaved individuals via particular interventions, animal-assisted therapies, and models of practice is addressed. Recognition of ways in which culture, ethnicity, and human diversity shape the bereavement experience is underscored throughout the course.