Child Welfare Practice (Graduate Certificate)

Child Welfare Practice

Child welfare practice requires professionals to be lifelong learners due to the complex and multiple factors that contribute to child trauma and maltreatment such as substance use disorders, violence, and poverty.  Improving safety and well-being outcomes for children and families requires in-depth study of child welfare research, policy, and evidence-based practices.  Child welfare professionals are employed across the nation and internationally.  This graduate certificate is transferrable to other states and will benefit students who plan to practice beyond Kentucky.

Nationally, child and family social worker jobs in the U.S. are projected to grow 10% - 14% between 2014 – 2026 with 9,250 projected annual job openings (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016).  Individuals who complete the certificate as an enhancement to the MSW degree or as an addition to their existing bachelor’s degree will enhance their knowledge for serving children in a variety of settings including public child welfare agencies, community mental health centers, hospitals, and non-profits serving children.  

• Social Service Workers
• Youth Services Specialists
• Therapists
• School Social Workers
• In-Home Services Clinicians
• Child and Family Impact Service Coordinators
• Case Managers
• Child Evaluation Specialists
• Assessment Clinicians

Application Requirements

• An official transcript displaying a baccalaureate degree from a fully accredited U.S. institution of higher learning or from a recognized foreign institution is required. The official transcript should be submitted at the time of application to the UK Graduate School.
• The GRE is not required for admission to this program.
• Application Deadlines:
  • Spring: December 9
  • Summer: April 15
  • Fall: July 22

Applicants must meet the Graduate School admission requirements.