It is intended primarily for practitioners who have some related work experience in a human services field by building on competencies already developed to enhance the practitioner's effectiveness. The certificate is beneficial to human services professionals such as social workers, counsellors, health professionals, and corrections officers, by providing them with insights into how career development affects all facets of a client's life. Most Canadians begin thinking about a career in their mid-teens, and they continue to make career decisions throughout their lives. Assistance from a skilled and knowledgeable career guide can be invaluable. Athabasca University's Certificate in Career Development is designed to provide candidates with the professional expertise to offer such assistance.
Many reports predict expansion of the career development field over the next decade.
As a result, there is unprecedented demand by Canadians for career development services. Opportunities for career development practitioners are increasing in the private sector, educational institutions, social and employment service agencies, and business and industry. The Certificate in Career Development acknowledges that a graduate has acquired a level of competence and a certain degree of focus in keeping with a senior level undergraduate set of courses. In so doing, the learner will be expected to fill in any missing junior level courses as well as the other requirements for the degree program. Please consult Athabasca University Calendar or the Bachelor of Arts for more details on the Bachelor of Arts regulations.