Trauma Academy

Offered in 100% online or hybrid formats, Delaware State University’s Domestic Violence Specialist Certificate Program is designed to strengthen the workforce by training domestic violence/sexual assault advocates to work with all populations — but particularly underserved survivors — and to address the needs of oppressed communities.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental and foundational knowledge of domestic violence and sexual assault, including the history; gender issues, empowerment, power/control; family dynamics; risk assessment/safety planning; community resources; and ethical responsibilities.
• Understand and apply an increased cultural humility and competency particularly with underserved populations to include but not be limited to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and ability.
• Assess and demonstrate intervention with those impacted by trauma, spanning developmental stages from childhood to elder populations.
• Evaluate evidenced-based interventions and policy trends, practices and advocacy that impact micro-, mezzo- and macro system-level practice with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
• Understand criminal and civil justice systems that impact perpetrators as well as victims.

PLAN OF STUDY

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

The Domestic Violence Specialist Certificate Program requires the completion of 18 credits, plus additional internship hours with an agency specializing in domestic violence services under a DVS supervision. The program provides students with the opportunity to graduate with domestic violence/sexual assault coursework, preparing them to work as advocates and to be well on their way to certification.

REQUIREMENTS FOR FINAL CERTIFICATION

• No history of violent behavior for five years; review of complete criminal and substance abuse history;
• Submit a Criminal Background Check from the State of Delaware, state of residence and state of employment (or verification of background check from employer);
• Abide by the Professional Code of Ethics of Delaware Domestic Violence Specialist;
• Complete 2,000 hours of service in the area of practice (direct services/systems advocacy and/or prevention);
• Complete 70 clock hours (110 clock hours for Dual Certification) of Training and Education with documentation;
• Complete 12 hours of mentoring sessions with a DCADV Certified Domestic Violence Specialist;
• Submit three evaluations — one each from a supervisor, a colleague and a local community agency — and a self-evaluation.

ADMISSION STEPS & TIME FRAMES

Students should apply through their advisor or by contacting Dr. Eleanor Kiesel at ekiesel [at] desu.edu.

Students are encouraged to apply early in their academic career at Delaware State University and/or prior to taking electives in order to fit the certificate requirements into the existing major program