Description:
This course prepares current professionals in the area of social work, case management or related activities, in assisting their clients to be proactive and in control of their disability case long before they officially file for benefits.  The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) approves the course for seven contact hours of continuing education.

Rationale: 
Historically social security disability has a 71% denial rate.  Social Workers have been misguided to think all that is necessary for the client is to complete the Social Security Disability Report or Application. 

Course Objectives:  Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Identify the professional's role as a Social Security disability client advocate.
2. Analyze the developmental process of successful Social Security disability cases.
3. List the steps involved in Social Security disability determination.
4. Articulate the 13 different body systems as they apply to the Social Security Disability approved listings for disability benefits.

Required Text: The Social Worker as a Social Security Disability Client Advocate

Optional Reference:  http://www.ssa.gov/

Computer Equipment Requirements:
Below are the minimum computer and Internet access requirements to effectively use this on-line course:
1) Computer with minimum capabilities of Internet access, with a common browser (Explorer or Netscape).
2) Internet access with a minimum connection speed of 56K or higher preferred.

Method of Instruction:  Reading assignments, on-line lectures, and online examination.

Evaluation:  The student's successful completion will be determined by:

1. Successful completion of an online exam at the end of each module.
3. The tests/exams are defined as correctly answering 80% of the questions.
4. Online students will have up to 6 months to complete all the requirements of the course.

Determining of Final Grade:
Students will receive either "credit" or "non-credit" for the entire course, based on successful completion of the activities described above.   No partial credit will be offered.

Certificate of Completion:
Upon successful completion of all course requirements, the student will be given a certificate of completion of this course. 

Instructor Contact:                                                                          Michael Davidson, MSW
C/O The Summit Organization, Inc.
13300 Tichester Court
Austin, Texas 78729
Email: mdavidso@austincc.edu