Training Program FAQ

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Where is the training program located?: The Irving B. Harris Graduate Certificate Program in Infant Mental Health (GCP-IMH) is at the University of Washington, Seattle (UW), housed under the larger umbrella of the Graduate Certificate Programs in Advanced Practice Nursing (GCPAPN) in the School of Nursing (SON).
Do I have to live in Seattle to do this training?: Beginning in Autumn 2011, we will teach our first year of courses via distance learning models of training. At the start of Autumn Quarter, the cohort and others registered in the first course will come together for 3 days of intensive training in Seattle. After this in-person instruction, the rest of the first year course sequence will be conducted via distance learning. In addition, we offer one of our second year pathways -- Promoting First Relationships -- using distance learning technologies to mentor each student. To allow for maximum flexibility, courses are asynchronous, which means you do not have to log in at any fixed day/time during the week. Discussion forums will be ongoing throughout the quarter and students will be required to participate weekly as well as complete various weekly exercises/assignments. Learning is very interactive, with use of video and training materials throughout each course.
What is the deadline for admissions?: We will begin reviewing applications after January 15th for each subsequent fall and continue accepting applications into mid-spring. Cohorts are admitted on a yearly basis. There is an online application and applicants must submit official transcripts, essays, and letters of recommendation as well as complete a complete background check. After faculty review applications, we will invite a subgroup of candidates for an interview in the spring. Final decisions will be made shortly thereafter.
Do I need a graduate degree?: Yes and no. Yes, you do need a graduate degree (completed or currently enrolled in a graduate program) to enroll in the two year program as a Graduate Certificate student. Furthermore, a graduate degree must be completed to receive the actual graduate Certificate. However, you can still take first year courses a la carte as a non-matriculated student or CEU/CNE student if you do not have a graduate degree.
Can I take individual courses if I am not enrolled as a Certificate student?: Yes, as mentioned above, pending final approval our first year courses will be open to non-matriculated students or to students seeking continuing education units (CNEs/CEUs). You may take one or more courses a la carte, space permitting, and after obtaining permission of the instructor. Please contact us if well in advance of each quarter to reserve a spot. Please note these non-matriculated or CEU credits cannot later be applied as graduate credit toward the Certificate.
Do I have to set up my own clinical placement for the second year?: No, placements for each pathway will be arranged by the IMH program for each enrolled student. To the best of our ability, placements will be matched to individuals' training backgrounds as well as future professional development objectives. We are currently in the process of ascertaining sites for future placements. Students may contact us individually if they think their current work site might be an appropriate training site for us to consider.
How do I know which pathway is right for me?: There are three training pathways in the second clinical year. Together we will consider your past training experiences as well as future professional goals and plans as we reflect upon which pathway might be the best fit.
Can I get Continuing Education Units for taking the courses?: A student taking an individual course(s) for credit may create a portfolio to submit to the licensing board if his/her discipline. It is up to each discipline’s board to approve university credit as CEU credit. Historically, most boards have granted such requests. Please investigate with your discipline’s governing board before registering.
Does this program result in a license or endorsement in infant mental health?: The State of Washington does not yet have an official infant mental health endorsement (credentialing) process in place. However, we anticipate Washington will move toward infant mental health endorsement in the near future. Our curriculum has been designed with an eye to other state endorsement requirements.