Certificate in Social Welfare Policy and Advocacy

Overview

This program provides students with the knowledge and skills to analyze, develop, and advocate for policies that address social issues and promote equity. The curriculum begins with foundational courses in social welfare systems, policy analysis, and the legislative process. Students explore topics such as poverty alleviation, healthcare access, housing policy, and education reform. Practical modules focus on advocacy strategies, stakeholder engagement, and effective communication with policymakers and communities. Advanced topics include ethical considerations in policy development, data-driven decision-making, and coalition building. The program concludes with a capstone project where students design and present a policy proposal addressing a specific social issue.

Professional opportunities:

Graduates of the Certificate in Social Welfare Policy and Advocacy are prepared to influence and shape policies that improve societal well-being. Career opportunities include:

  • Policy Advocate: Promote and support policies that address social challenges such as poverty, inequality, and health disparities.
  • Legislative Assistant: Assist policymakers in drafting and analyzing social welfare legislation.
  • Nonprofit Policy Specialist: Work within organizations to develop and advocate for impactful social policies.
  • Community Organizer: Mobilize communities to engage in social justice initiatives and policy advocacy.
  • Research Analyst: Conduct studies on the effectiveness and impact of social welfare policies.
  • Public Affairs Specialist: Communicate and advocate for policy changes in governmental or organizational settings.

This certificate equips professionals with the tools to engage in meaningful policy work, fostering systemic change and advancing social justice in diverse contexts.

The program curriculum consists of 8 courses (24 credits) and is designed to be completed in 1 year as a full-time student. However, the University provides students with the flexibility to progress at their own pace.

The recommended course sequence from the University

1

Total Courses Total Credits

8                                                                                                                                                

24