Graduate Certificate in Child Life and Community Health

The Child Life and Community Health program prepares you to meet the professional requirements of the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP) to become eligible to write the Child Life Certification Exam and earn the designation of Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS). While this unique 15-credit graduate certificate prepares you for a career in a hospital or community health care setting, it is also an excellent choice for working in a variety of settings supporting children, youth, and families in challenging life situations. The small cohort format provides a supportive learning environment in which you are able to explore the theories specific to child life, therapeutic play, child development, transitions, and acquire the skills and knowledge required to work with grief and loss. As part of the program, you gain work experience in the form of a 600-hour internship where you demonstrate competency in specific clinical skills as defined by the Association of Child Life Professionals. Upon completion of the Child Life and Community Health program you may opt to write the Child Life Certification Exam, or you may choose to continue your education at the graduate level.Career Expectations:Career opportunities span a wide range of field settings and areas of practice. As a licensed Child Life Specialist, you may pursue a rewarding career in hospitals and community-based health settings such as hospice organizations, respite care, and specific health-related foundations.You may find employment as a:Healthcare Play SpecialistHospital Play SpecialistChild & Youth Bereavement WorkerPatient Education & Support CoordinatorYou may also seek international work opportunities, as the North American designations Hospital Play Specialist and Child Life Therapist are recognized globally.