Pre- Child Life Specialist, Certificate
Program Details
- Location
- Akron Campus
- Level
- undergraduate
- Degree/Program Type
- Certificate Program / certificate
- Format
- online
- Course Info
- Curriculum Guide
- College
- Health and Human Sciences, College of (Dean's Office)
- School/Department
- School of Social Work & Family Sciences
Program Contact
- Shannon R. Zentall, Ph.D.
-
Associate Professor
330-972-8158
Overview
The Certificate in Pre-Child Life Specialist provides undergraduate and postbaccalaureate students with the foundational coursework aligned with the academic requirements set by the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP). The program focuses on child development, family systems, and the impact of illness and hospitalization on children and families, preparing students for further training and certification.
While the certificate fulfills key academic criteria, students will need additional hands-on experience, such as volunteer hours or internships in pediatric settings, to be eligible for certification as a Child Life Specialist. This certificate is an excellent addition for students majoring in child and family development, psychology, social work, education, or nursing, and is ideal for those interested in supporting children’s emotional and developmental needs in medical environments.
Admissions Requirements
Admission to The University of Akron.
Required courses must be completed with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 overall for the certificate to be awarded.
Career Outcomes
This certificate allows students to complete the academic requirement (10 courses) for Child Life Certification under the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP) guidelines. It prepares students to work with children and families in a variety of settings, including hospitals. The ACLP has approved the required courses of this certificate. Please see the Association of Child Life Professionals guidelines for the additional requirements for certification.