Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) and Neurodiversity (ND) Specialty Certificate
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) and Neurodiversity (ND) Specialty Certificate is designed to equip learners with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to support individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) and neurodivergent (ND) conditions. The program focuses on fostering a deep understanding of the diverse experiences of individuals with I/DD and/or ND and their families and caregivers, while emphasizing inclusive practices that enhance their quality of life and opportunities for participation in all aspects of society. At the completion of this program learners will have a comprehensive understanding of I/DD and ND with the knowledge and skills needed to provide holistic, individualized supports that promote dignity, inclusion, and empowerment.
This certificate program provides learners with foundational and advanced knowledge in disability and neurodiversity-affirming best practices. Participants will gain a deep understanding of intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and neurodivergence (ND), historical and cultural contexts, effective communication and support strategies, and ethical and legal frameworks. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, advocating for systemic change, and promoting community integration and inclusion. Learners will develop the skills necessary to navigate service systems, advocate for and foster culturally responsive and respectful practices for individuals with I/DD or ND and their families.
Course Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core Courses | ||
| SOWO 709 | Special Topics in Human Behavior and Social Environment | 1.5 |
| SOWO 769 | Special Topics in Direct Practice | 3 |
| SOWO 799 | Special Topics in Macro Practice | 3 |
| SOWO 837 | Disability Policy | 1.5 |
| Electives | ||
| A total of 3 credit hours are required. The electives list below provides a range of options; other courses may also fulfill this requirement with program director approval. | 3 | |
| Minimum Hours | 12 | |
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Electives | ||
| SOWO 700 | Treatment Foundation for Problematic Substance Use and Process Addictions | 3 |
| SOWO 705 | Mental Health Recovery and Psychiatric Rehabilitation (January-March) | 1.5 |
| SOWO 709 | Special Topics in Human Behavior and Social Environment (Social Work with Immigrants and Refugees; March-May) | 1.5 |
| SOWO 739 | Special Topics in Policy (Immigration & Citizenship Law and Policy; January-March) | 1.5 |
| SOWO 741 | Integrated Behavioral Health Care with Underserved Populations | 1.5 |
| SOWO 742 | The Satir Growth Model: Enhancing Individual, Couple, Family and Organizational Health (2/4, 2/11, 3/4) | 1.5 |
| SOWO 743 | SW at the Interface of the MH & Criminal Justice Systems: Practice, Policy, and Research (March-May) | 1.5 |
| SOWO 750 | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (January-March) | 1.5 |
| SOWO 751 | Behavioral Intervention with Children (January-March) | 1.5 |
| SOWO 758 | Differential Diagnosis of Mental Health Disorders (March-May) | 1.5 |
| SOWO 760 | Clinical Practice with Addictive Disorders | 3 |
| SOWO 761 | Practice with Diverse Populations Affected by Addiction | 3 |
| SOWO 764 | Motivational Interviewing for the Treatment of Addictive and Mental Health Disorders | 1.5 |
| SOWO 765 | Social Work Practice with Groups | 1.5 |
| SOWO 766 | Dialectical Behavioral Therapy: Theory and Practice | 1.5 |
| SOWO 767 | Differential Diagnosis and Case Formulation | 3 |
| SOWO 769 | Special Topics in Direct Practice (Core Competencies and Skills Trauma Informed Practices with Children and Adolescents) | 3 |
| SOWO 792 | Program Development and Proposal Preparation | 1.5 |
| SOWO 793 | Asset Development Practice | 1.5 |
| SOWO 799 | Special Topics in Macro Practice (Community Organizing, Facilitation) | 1.5 |
| SOWO 853 | Approaches to Brief Treatment | 3 |
| SOWO 855 | Treatment of Trauma and Violence | 3 |
| SOWO 856 | Care of the Dying and Bereaved | 3 |
| SOWO 860 | Child Welfare Perspectives and Practices | 3 |
| SOWO 883 | Marketing and Fundraising for Nonprofit Organizations | 3 |
Non-Course Certificate Requirements
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Practicum placement in the specialization year will focus on I/DD and/or ND. MSW students will put their classroom knowledge into practice through real-world experiences during their practicum placement. Please contact your program director for detailed advising.
