C45380C
Total credit hours: 12
The Child Advocacy Studies (CAST) Certificate is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to effectively address and respond to child maltreatment. This certificate enhances the Social and Human Services A.A.S. degree by providing specialized training in recognizing, preventing, and responding to child abuse and neglect. Students who pursue the CAST Certificate will be prepared to work within multiple systems and institutions that address child maltreatment, ensuring they can make a significant impact in the field. Students can choose to complete the Social and Human Services A.A.S. degree with a concentration in CAST or pursue the CAST Certificate independently.
The CAST Certificate focuses on several key areas:
- Recognizing Child Maltreatment: Students learn to identify signs of child abuse and neglect, understanding the various factors that contribute to these situations.
- Identifying Prevention and Intervention Systems: The certificate coursework covers existing systems and supports designed to prevent and intervene in cases of child maltreatment.
- Developing Effective Multidisciplinary Responses: Students are trained to work collaboratively with professionals from different disciplines to respond to child maltreatment cases effectively.
- Fostering Resilience for a Long-Term Career: The certificate coursework emphasizes strategies for maintaining resilience and longevity in the challenging field of child advocacy.
- Establishing Better Outcomes for At-Risk or Maltreated Children: The certificate aims to improve outcomes for children by preparing students to provide informed, ethical, and trauma-informed care.
This certificate is recognized and backed by zeroabuse.org, ensuring that students receive a credential respected in the field of child advocacy. Additionally, this certificate benefits community members and populations who work with children and families, such as educators, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and social workers, by providing specialized knowledge and skills to effectively address and respond to child maltreatment.
By participating in this program, you will join a community of professionals dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of children and families. Enhance your expertise, expand your career opportunities, and contribute to the well-being of your community by earning this respected credential.
Program Requirements
Admission Requirements
Students must demonstrate English and mathematics “college readiness” levels, via college-level English/math courses or by completion of or waiver credit for specified “transition” or co-requisite courses.
Technical Standards
In addition to Davidson-Davie requirements and course objectives, there are professional standards that encompass communication, motor skills, sensory and cognitive ability and professional conduct that are essential for the competent study and practice of this program. Human Services Technical Standards (PDF opens in new window)
NOTE: Special legal requirements exist which may limit the ability of an individual to obtain clinical experience, employment, or certification in the Human Services field. Prospective students should obtain additional information from a College counselor or program faculty member prior to seeking admission.
Curriculum Guide
