Child Advocacy Certificate

Chairperson
Dr. Robert McCormick

Data indicates that child abuse and neglect continue to increase. For this reason, children's welfare has become a primary concern to society. Child advocates - trained professionals committed to the well-being of children - are in high demand. Presently, most individuals working in this capacity are self-proclaimed child advocates. That is, they are dedicated to improving the quality of life of children in many capacities, but do not have the necessary sociolegal understanding of the juvenile justice system in order to be effective child advocates. Montclair State University offers the first and only Child Advocacy program in the State of New Jersey.

The Post-BA Certificate Program in Child Advocacy has been designed to provide students with a multidisciplinary understanding of the role of the child advocate as seen through the disciplines of law, sociology, and psychology. This unique perspective encompassing these three areas of learning equip graduates with training that will enhance their skills in a variety of settings.

Upon successful completion of the Post-BA Certificate students may transfer all 15 credits towards the Masters of Arts in Child Advocacy, in accordance with all related graduate policy.

Career Opportunities

Individuals with a Certificate in Child Advocacy will be qualified to work in a variety of settings:

• State agencies, such as the Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS),
• Child Assessment Resource Teams (CART),
• Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA),
• Child Placement Review offices,
• Community mental health centers,
• Schools,
• and other facilities where a child's welfare is a concern.
  

REQUIREMENTS

The curriculum for the Post-BA Certificate in Child Advocacy consists of an 15-credit course sequence offered in the fall, spring and summer semesters. Classes are offered day and evening. Two courses are offered each fall , summer and spring semesters so that the program may be completed in one year.

CHAD 501, Introduction to Child Advocacy, 3 credits
CHAD 502, Child Abuse and Neglect, 3 credits
CHAD 503, Current Social Issues in Child Advocacy, 3 credits
CHAD 504, Children and Justice, 3 credits
CHAD 505, Theoretical and Applied Models for Interviewing Children, 3 credits

ADMISSION

All candidates must meet the basic admissions requirements for graduate study at Montclair State.  The completion of a major from an accredited college or university is preferred. Students with a baccalaureate degree in any field will be considered for admission.

DEADLINES

Credentials are processed as soon as they are received.  This program does not have a specific deadline; however, the Office of Graduate Admissions & Support Services recommends that students submit their credentials as far in advance as possible for the semester they plan to begin their studies to ensure a timely

TO APPLY TO THIS PROGRAM, PLEASE VISIT http://www.montclair.edu/graduate/prospective/app.shtml