Forensic Social Work
Associate in Applied Science
Forensic social work is the intersection of human service and legal systems. This interdisciplinary degree examines areas of social justice, cross-cultural competency, advocacy, community relations, crisis intervention, court-mandated treatment, and trauma-informed service provision. A Credentialed Advocate (CA) certification from the National Advocate Credentialing Program is built into our degree requirements. This marketable credential will set you apart as a job candidate in many fields of work.
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Program tracks
Seven-Week Accelerated Online
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Estimated degree completion time
10 half-semesters, 61 credits
Degree questions, answered.
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Courses
Program courses cover topics ranging from criminal justice and abnormal psychology to human services and victim advocacy. A capstone course encapsulates the student’s training to showcase to potential employers.
Learning outcomes
Students will be able to:
- Utilize skills that will assist in consultation, support, and collaboration with professionals in both the human service and criminal justice fields.
- Provide advocacy services across a range of domains related to both criminal and civil issues.
- Demonstrate awareness of, and respect for, diverse populations, and develop a culturally responsive communication style.
- Engage in treatment service provision including crisis intervention, evaluation, diagnosis, and referral.
- Articulate an understanding of the role and function of both the criminal and civil court systems.
Careers
Forensic social work graduates may pursue careers related to advocacy, child protection, corrections, probation, arbitration, and mediation. The program also provides a strong foundation for students who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a four-year institution.
Meet the Faculty
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Cathleen Ferrick
Chair - BHS/Gerontology, Faculty - Psychology
Cathleen Ferrick is the chair of the Behavioral Health Studies, Gerontology, Forensic Social Work, and Criminal Justice programs. In addition to teaching, she also has many years of clinical experience in the human service field in a wide range of areas including child protection, adoption, crisis intervention, and court investigations. Cathleen has a BA in Psychology and an M.Ed. in Counseling Psychology as well as the Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician Community (MHRT/C) credential and a post-graduate certificate in Trauma Informed Expressive Art Therapies.