P R O F E S S I O N A L E D U C AT I O N
Post-Masters Certificate Program in Palliative Care Sessions take place on the Smith College campus in Northampton, Massachusetts Session dates: October 17–20, 2019 and April 30–May 3, 2020 CEs: 45 continuing education credits are offered Comprehensive Education
Rigorous Coursework
Expert Clinical Advisement
The Smith College School for Social Work post-masters Certificate Program in Palliative Care is one of the most comprehensive palliative care programs for social workers and psychologists in the country. The program focuses on the psychosocial, spiritual, physical and practical needs of patients and families who are dealing with a life-threatening illness, some of whom may be at the end of life.
Coursework takes place in two four-day intensive teaching sessions, one in the fall and one in the spring on the Smith College campus in Northampton, MA. The fall session focuses on foundational aspects of palliative care and students learn about key theories that address palliative care practice, legal and policy issues, ethical issues, pain and symptom management and spirituality. The spring session provides training in advanced clinical practice, leadership, advocacy skills and mindfulness, as well as working with specialized populations such as the elderly and children. Issues of diversity are also addressed throughout instruction.
Between the fall and spring sessions, students are also offered 12 sessions of clinical advisement with an experienced professional in the field of palliative care. Three are individual sessions and nine are shared with another student in the program. The focus of advisement is to promote and strengthen clinical practice skills.
ssw.smith.edu/palliative