Trauma-Informed Child Advocacy Certificate

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network defines a traumatic event as a frightening, dangerous, or violent event that poses a threat to a child's life or bodily integrity. Witnessing a traumatic event that threatens life or physical security of a loved one can also be traumatic. This is particularly important for young children as their sense of safety depends on the perceived safety of their attachment figures.

Professionals working with children and families need training in trauma-informed practices. This certificate program complements the MSU Human Development and Family Science degree and other majors taught across departments and colleges by providing state of the science techniques used to assist and advocate for children and families who have experienced trauma. The certificate requires a minimum of 12 hours of coursework (4 courses) focused on trauma and risk, child advocacy, human behavior and behavioral strategies, and/or family functioning.

Required Courses

• HDFS 2023 Trauma-informed Practice
• HDFS 2123 Perspectives on Child Maltreatment and Child Advocacy
• HDFS 3123 Global Child Advocacy Issues OR a Departmental approved 3 hour course

Students must also take one of the electives below:

• HDFS 4803 Parenting
• HDFS 3843 Guiding Child Behavior
• PSY 3213 Psychology of Abnormal Behavior
• PSY 3363 Behavior Modification
• Other courses, including special topics courses (2990 and 4990), will be considered for elective credit on a case-by-case basis.