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Maryville University Certificate in Child Life Specialist online

Maryville University Certificate in Child Life Specialist online

Learn how to create safe and welcoming environments to minimize trauma for children facing serious medical issues while addressing their needs and advocating for their care.

100% online classes

Work at your own pace and on your own schedule.

39 credits

Complete a 39-credit program.

Zero application fees

No application fees or SAT/ACT scores are required.

About the program

  • Receive support from a dedicated team:

    Work closely with experienced professionals and certified practitioners who bring their experiences and knowledge from the clinical setting into the classroom.

  • Gain practical experience:

    Choose from an introductory field experience or a child life practicum for hands-on experience in a clinical setting.

  • Become a certified child life specialist:

    Prepare to sit for the Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) exam from the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP).

About Maryville University

Maryville University’s mission is to provide access and opportunity to those who are brave enough to make their dreams a reality. Since 1872, Maryville University has offered a high-quality, student-centered educational experience to its learners, by providing personalized, comprehensive support; a practical, future-focused education; and accessible and experienced faculty.

Tuition and fees

Tuition and feesTuition$21,060

Tuition and fees are subject to change and may increase each academic year. Tuition does not include student fees, technology platform licensing, or support services. Learners are also responsible for travel and accommodation costs related to any in-person immersions or residentials, if applicable.

Technology and services powered by 2U, Inc., the parent company of edX.

Curriculum

Learners enrolled in the child life certificate program will learn how to address children’s unique physical and emotional needs and challenges as young patients and their families face a serious medical diagnosis or hospitalization. The 13-course, 39-credit program also includes a field experience or a practicum that offers students the opportunity to prepare for the CCLS certification exam to become a certified child life specialist. 

During the program, you will learn how to:

  • Support young patients and their families:

    Provide care and stability in the treatment room and beyond, serving as an advocate to help patients and their families navigate a complex healthcare environment.

  • Provide a safe environment:

    Create safe settings for children as they acclimate to a new healthcare environment, developing age-appropriate play and learning activities to complement early learning within a therapeutic setting.

  • Build trusted relationships:

    Establish relationships with children, parents, and medical staff to authentically communicate concerns and questions to achieve the best solution for the patient.

  • Develop individualized care coordination strategies:

    Plan and implement tailored strategies for each patient across specialists, social workers, schools, and more.

Admissions

Maryville University offers a no-cost, hassle-free online application process, with guidance from a dedicated admissions advisor and you can choose from six start dates. Maryville University considers all transfer credits, and will even request transcripts on your behalf. No SAT/ACT scores are required.

To apply for the Certificate in Child Life Specialist online program, you will need:

  • An official high school transcript. (Maryville will request transcripts for you.) 

  • Official transcripts from any previously attended colleges or universities. (Maryville will request transcripts for you.) An unofficial high school transcript is required if you have fewer than 60 transfer credits from a regionally accredited school. 

  • English proficiency scores. (International applicants may be required to submit scores that meet a certain threshold.)

Field placements

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