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Our new social work certificate program offers a focused, practice‑driven pathway for students and professionals who want to deepen their expertise in key areas of contemporary social work. Designed to complement both academic study and professional practice, the program blends evidence‑informed coursework, interdisciplinary perspectives, and hands‑on skill development. Participants gain targeted training that strengthens their ability to respond to complex social challenges, engage effectively with diverse communities, and advance meaningful change within human‑service organizations. Whether you are seeking specialized knowledge or looking to enhance your professional credentials, these certificates provide a flexible and impactful way to elevate your practice and expand your career opportunities.
Child Welfare Certificate
The School of Social Work is introducing a graduate certificate in Child Welfare that equips students with specialized knowledge and practice skills to work effectively with children, youth, and families involved in the child welfare system. Through four courses (12 credit hours) and applied learning experiences, the program will prepare students to conduct assessments, case management, and permanency planning; engage families through evidence-based and trauma-informed practices; and develop leadership capacity to advocate for equity, policy improvements, and systemic reform within the child welfare system. The certificate is designed for degree-seeking MSW students and non-degree seeking students.
Required Courses for Child Welfare Certificate
- SW 505: Social Work Practice with Individuals & Families or SW 512: Advanced Generalist Practice 1: Components of Social Work Practice
- SW 508: Social Work Practice in Child Welfare
- SW 509: Child & Adolescent Mental Health
- SW 516: Trauma-Informed Social Work Practice
Clinical and Behavioral Health Certificate
The School of Social Work is introducing a graduate certificate in Clinical and Behavioral Health that equips students with specialized knowledge and skills in clinical assessment, evidence-based interventions, and behavioral health practices, preparing them to address the complex mental health needs of diverse populations. Through four courses (12 credit hours) and applied learning opportunities, the program will develop students’ expertise in clinical assessment, diagnosis, and intervention; enhance their capacity to provide advanced practice in clinical social work, integrated healthcare, and behavioral health settings; and prepare them to serve as leaders who advocate for policies and practices that improve access, equity, and outcomes in behavioral health services. The certificate is designed for degree-seeking MSW students and non-degree seeking students.
Required Courses for Clinical and Behavioral Health Certificate
- SW 516: Trauma-Informed Social Work Practice
- SW 530: Advanced Generalist Practice II: Psychopathology & Assessment
- SW 544: Substance Use and Social Work Practice
- SW 550: Innovations in Clinical and Behavioral Health
Policy and Advocacy Certificate
The School of Social Work is introducing a graduate certificate in Policy and Advocacy equips students with specialized knowledge in policy analysis, legislative advocacy, and community organizing, preparing them to drive change at local, state, and national levels. Through four courses (12 credit hours) and applied learning opportunities, the program will develop students’ advanced skills in analyzing policy, engaging in advocacy, and strengthen the capacity of communities to design, implement, and evaluate policies and programs that advance community well-being. The certificate is designed for degree-seeking MSW students and non-degree seeking students.
Required Courses for Policy and Advocacy Certificate
- SW 519: Community-Based Policy Advocacy
- SW 520: Legislative & Policy Advocacy
- SW 521: Juvenile & Criminal Justice Policy: Implications for Social Work Practice
- SW 580: Advanced Policy Analysis