Graduate Certificate in Child Welfare Practice

Child Welfare Practice

Who is this program for?

A graduate certificate in child welfare practice is ideal for individuals working or aspiring to work in social services, child protection, or family advocacy, who wish to deepen their understanding of the policies, practices, and ethical issues surrounding child welfare. Graduates often pursue careers as child welfare caseworkers, family support specialists, or policy analysts, working in government agencies, non-profits, or community organizations to improve outcomes for children and families in crisis.

Program Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Child Welfare Practice provides specialized knowledge and skills related to serving neglected and abused children and their families. The nine hour credit curriculum offers post-baccalaureate and MSW students the opportunity to enhance their knowledge in the area of child welfare practice. Students who are admitted to the UK Graduate School and complete the certificate in post-baccalaureate status may use the credential as a foundational piece for the UK MSW program.

Related Careers

Career opportunities utilizing child welfare expertise:

  • Social Service Workers
  • Youth Services Specialists
  • Therapists
  • School Social Workers
  • In-Home Services Clinicians
  • Child and Family Impact Service Coordinators
  • Case Managers
  • Child Evaluation Specialists
  • Assessment Clinicians
     
Offered by the College of Social Work
Icon for Credit Hours
Credential
Graduate Certificate
Icon for Tuition
Tuition / Credit Hour
Resident $825.50
Non-Resident $2,060.50
Cost of Attendance
Online Option Available

Admission Requirements

Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.

Application Requirements

Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.

Application Deadlines

Domestic

  • Fall
    • 07/25/2025
  • Spring
    • 12/12/2025
  • Summer
    • 04/18/2026

International

  • Fall
    • 04/15/2025
  • Spring
    • 09/15/2025
Calendars & Deadlines

FIND OUT EXACTLY
What You'll Learn

Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.

Funding Icon

Explore Funding Options

As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!

View Funding Options
Students meet with student org representatives at an outdoor involvement fair.

Get Involved!

Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!

Learn About Student Organizations & Activities
Campus View

Get More Information

Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.

Hidden Conditionals







Things to do on this form:
Take away "Term" for Transfers - "Unknown Term"? As well as "Not in High School"
And the same for "Online"

Possibly remove the "Readmit" option.
Feel like it would be pretty easy to see if the person already exists in our system and has a program enrollment record associated with them, which would shift them from "Freshman" or "Transfer" to "Readmit"
Gatton College of Business and Economics
Interest Form
About You




Mailing Address





Program Interest







The University of Kentucky defines international applicants as those with citizenship other than the United States of America. Exception: Permanent Residents of the United States should complete a domestic application.



By submitting this form, you give University of Kentucky your consent to use automated technology to call, text, e-mail and send physical mail to you at the information above, including to your wireless number if provided, regarding educational services. Please note that you are not required to provide this consent to receive educational services. Privacy Policy and SMS Terms and Conditions.

* Denotes Required Field
This form is not currently active. Please contact an administrator if you believe you have come to this page in error.
Hidden Fields

Future Wildcat Contact Information



























Become a Wildcat

Discover your Future

At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.

Take the Next Step

Apply Virtual Visit Funding Contact the Program
Request More Information