The ONLINE Advanced Certificate (A.C.) in Child Advocacy Studies (CAST), developed by the Zero Abuse Project, provides a strong foundation for future professionals providing direct and in-direct services for children and families impacted by abuse and trauma.
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor's Degree
- Transcripts
- Online Application
- Résumé
- Statement of Intent
- References (3)
Sample Degree Plan
Fall Semester
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CAST 501 | Child Maltreatment: Perspectives on Child Maltreatment and Child Advocacy | 3 |
| CAST 502 | Global Child Advocacy | 3 |
| TOTAL | 6 |
J-Term
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CAST 503 | Professional and System Responses to Maltreatment | 3 |
| TOTAL | 3 |
Spring Semester
| Course | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| CAST 504 | Trauma-Informed Practices with Vulnerable Populations | 3 |
| CAST 505 | Child Advocacy Research Studies | 4 |
| TOTAL | 7 |
GRAND TOTAL: 16
Our program focuses on developing students’ understanding of the numerous factors that lead to child maltreatment, and of existing responses to incidents of child maltreatment, in order that they may work more effectively within systems and institutions that respond to these incidents. Students will learn about the various disciplinary responses to child maltreatment, and will develop a multi-disciplinary understanding of the most effective responses. Students completing the courses in this program will be better equipped to carry out the work of agencies and systems (education, healthcare, criminal justice, social services) as they advocate on behalf of the needs of children as victims and survivors of child abuse.
The online CAST, A.C. is designed for students majoring in education, criminal justice, social work, sociology, psychology, medicine, law, journalism, or other areas where knowledge of child maltreatment and advocating for children might be necessary.