Master of Human Services in Child Protection
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-08-01 | - |
| 2024-01-01 | - |
| 2024-05-01 | - |
Program Overview
Nova Southeastern University's Master of Human Services in Child Protection equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values to address the challenges faced by children and families in the protective services system. Through a research-based curriculum and field experiences, graduates gain expertise in child protection law, family systems, assessment, and program evaluation. The program offers concentration tracks in Child Advocacy Studies, Child Protection and Juvenile Justice, Leadership and Supervision for Child and Youth Programs, and Psychological Foundations in Child Advocacy, preparing graduates for rewarding careers in child welfare and protection.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Human Services in Child Protection (M.H.S. in Child Protection) at Nova Southeastern University equips students with the necessary knowledge, values, and skills to address the multifaceted challenges faced by children and families within the protective services system. Through a research-based curriculum coupled with field experiences, graduates gain a deep understanding of child protection law, family systems, conflict resolution, child placement risk and protective factors, assessment and case planning, and program evaluation.
Objectives:
- Develop critical knowledge and skills to effectively respond to complex issues confronting children and families in the protective services system
- Specialize in a specific area of interest through concentration tracks, including Child Advocacy Studies, Child Protection and Juvenile Justice, Leadership and Supervision for Child and Youth Programs, and Psychological Foundations in Child Advocacy
- Lay a solid foundation in evidence-based practices and ethical principles to enhance the well-being and safety of children
Outline:
The M.H.S. in Child Protection program comprises 30 total credits, distributed across a core curriculum (21 credits) and a concentration track (9 credits).
Core Curriculum (21 credits):
- Child Protection Law (HCP 0510)
- Family Systems & Diversity (HCP 0515)
- Conflict Analysis and Resolution for Child Welfare Professionals (HCP 0525)
- Child Placement Risk & Protective Factors (HCP 0545)
- Assessment and Case Planning (HCP 0550)
- Program Evaluation (HCP 0560)
Concentration Tracks (9 credits):
Child Advocacy Studies:
- Perspectives on Child Maltreatment & Child Advocacy (CAST 6505)
- Professional and Systemic Responses to Child Abuse (CAST 6510)
- Responding to the Survivor of Child Abuse (CAST 6515)
Child Protection and Juvenile Justice:
- Theory of Child Protection, Investigation, and Advocacy (CJI 6910)
- Juvenile Justice: Systems, Structure, and Process (CJI 6920)
- Family Dynamics: Motivation, Support and Communication (CJI 6930)
- Victimology: Child Abuse and Exploited Children (CJI 6940)
- Safe Schools: Climate and Culture (CJI 6950)
- Substance Abuse Treatment in the Community (CJI 6530)
- Cultural Factors in Treatment (CJI 6540)
Leadership and Supervision for Child and Youth Programs:
- Supervision Methods & Approaches for Child & Youth Care Administrators (HCP 6810)
- Public Policy & the Child & Youth Care Field for Program Administrators (HCP 6820)
- The Development & Acquisition of Resources for Child & Youth Care Programs (HCP 6830)
- Supervision of Family Support Programs (HCP 6840)
- Legal Aspects of the Management of Programs for Children & Youth (HCP 6850)
- Financial Aspects of the Management of Programs for Children & Youth (HCP 6860)
Psychological Foundations in Child Advocacy:
- Intervention Strategies (HCP 6110)
- Overview: Childhood and Adolescent Development (HCP 6120)
- Overview: Childhood & Adolescent Psychological Disorders (HCP 6130)
- Overview: Children and Trauma (HCP 6140)
- Special Topics: Seminar & Case Studies (HCP 6150)
Assessment:
Information regarding the assessment methods and criteria used in the M.H.S.
Teaching:
Information regarding the teaching methods, faculty, and unique approaches employed in the M.H.S.
Careers:
Graduates of the M.H.S. in Child Protection program are prepared for rewarding careers in the field of child welfare and protection, including roles such as:
- Child Advocate
- Child Welfare Case Manager
- Foster Care Caseworker
- Juvenile Justice Worker
- Youth Program Manager
Earning Potential:
According to Salary.com, the average salary for these roles ranges from $75,111 to $100,946 per year.
Nova Southeastern University (NSU)
Overview:
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is a private research university located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It is known for its diverse range of academic programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. NSU is also recognized as Florida's largest private research university, with a strong focus on research and innovation.
Services Offered:
NSU offers a wide array of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, and career development services.Student Life:
Clubs and organizations, performing and visual arts, recreation and wellness programs, and housing options.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, and loans to help students finance their education.International Affairs:
Support for international students and opportunities for study abroad.Veterans Resources:
Dedicated resources and support for veterans and their families.Health Care Centers:
On-campus health care services for students.Libraries:
Access to extensive library resources and research facilities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
NSU provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. Students can participate in a variety of clubs and organizations, attend cultural events, and enjoy recreational activities. The university also offers housing options for students who wish to live on campus.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Diverse Academic Programs:
NSU offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, allowing students to pursue their passions and career goals.Research Opportunities:
As a research-intensive university, NSU provides students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects.Strong Faculty:
NSU boasts a highly qualified and experienced faculty who are dedicated to teaching and mentoring students.Location:
NSU is located in a vibrant and diverse city, offering students access to cultural attractions, beaches, and other amenities.Financial Aid:
NSU offers generous financial aid packages to help students afford their education.Academic Programs:
NSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
Bachelor's degrees in various fields, including business, education, health sciences, law, and engineering.Graduate Programs:
Master's and doctoral degrees in fields such as business, education, health sciences, law, and psychology.Professional Programs:
Specialized programs for professionals in fields such as medicine, pharmacy, and law.Other:
NSU is committed to diversity and inclusion, and its student body represents a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. The university also has a strong focus on community outreach and engagement, with programs that benefit the local community.
Entry Requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree from a Regionally Accredited Institution
- $50 Nonrefundable Application Fee (USD)
- 2.5 Or Higher GPA
