The program begins in August and ends in December (5 months). Courses are held within the traditional semester system at SDSU, but are structured so that you are able to focus on one class at a time for the majority of the semester. Each course is approximately 60-80 hours of commitment per month. The courses consist of viewing online lectures, participating in discussion groups, reading materials plus completing journals, writing reflection papers, and completing quizzes.

No, there is not a face-to-face component for the Certificate Program.

The online certificate is suitable for people who are working full-time while completing the qualification.

The certificate is a great asset in preparing to serve communities suffering from severe mental illness and trauma through trauma-informed care and restorative practices. It is designed to fit the contemporary and future directions of the current mental health landscape. The certificate will have value alongside the professional identity and experience of the person completing the qualification. The certificate alone does not guarantee specific access to an occupation. Knowledge, skills and experiences in working in schools and the community with a background in mental health recovery, restorative practices, and trauma-informed care is a great advantage.

We are interested in bolstering students' competencies and conceptual frameworks around mental health recovery and trauma-informed care, and knowing more about how this fits into your goals, aspirations, and dreams is very helpful for us. Otherwise, complete your application, and demonstrate the capacity for academic rigor and relational skills while conveying your numerous identities through an application.

No GRE is required to apply to this certificate program. TOEFL scores may be required if applicable. See our Admissions page for more details.

Certificate in Mental Health Recovery & Trauma-informed Care costs approximately $6,000.

Graduate students may be eligible for Federal Financial Aid. To apply for financial aid, visit the College of Education's Financial Aid and Scholarships page.

Students may also apply for scholarships offered through San Diego State University and private organizations. Information about Financial Aid at SDSU can be found at the SDSU Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.

Note: Unit prices are subject to change.

All courses are eligible for Financial Aid. Contact the SDSU Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships and speak to a financial aid officer familiar with loans for special programs.

(Required Federal Gainful Employment Disclosure)

The classes for the certificate can all be transferred to the Master of Arts program, and you could easily continue on to acquire the Master's degree. You will be required to submit paperwork notifying your intent to continue on to the Master's degree, and submit GRE scores to transfer.