Online Sexual Health Certificate Program Information
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**The development of this certificate was a collaborative effort between the University of Alberta and the Alberta Society for the Promotion of Sexual Health (ASPSH) whose mandate is to promote optimal sexual and reproductive health and well-being throughout the lifespan. By bringing together both academics and professionals who practice in the community, students will be given tools, strategies and skills to work with clients using a sex positive approach.
The first course in the series, REHAB 543: Sexual Health: Issues & Perspectives, is tentatively scheduled to run in Fall 2016 term (Sept-Dec). We are now accepting applications to the program.
The program provides participants with the knowledge, skills, and attributes necessary to succeed in the emerging field of sexual health. Drawing on theory and the best practices through case studies, simulations, and group projects, participants will critically apply the conceptual, theoretical, and practical frameworks necessary to address the common challenges associated with comprehensive sexual health education. The impact of personal bias will be explored with respect to different cultures, lifestyles, and values.
Upon program completion registrants will be issued a parchment through the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research and the use of the letters PgCSH (post graduate certificate in sexual health) to designate program completion. Certificate courses may be used as elective credit towards a graduate program of study with the approval of the home institution.
Program Courses
The program consists of four required 3-credit graduate courses.
REHAB 543: SEXUAL HEALTH: ISSUES & PERSPECTIVES
This course will provide the students with an understanding of sexuality from a personal, familial, societal, cultural and ethical perspective. The course will provide an overview of basic anatomy, physiology, psychosocial, lifespan and sexual health issues. The impact of disability and illness on sexual identity and functioning as well as specific sexual dysfunctions will also be covered. This course will present strategies and skills service providers can use when dealing with sexual health issues.
REHAB 546: SEX POSITIVITY: IN THEORY & PRACTICE
This course will give students a better understanding of the importance of using a sex-positive approach with clients. The course will explore what shapes an individual's sexual morals, values, and beliefs. The impact of religion, culture, media, and the law on sexuality will be emphasized. This course will help students become more aware of their sexual attitudes and offer strategies to become more effective sexual health practitioners.
REHAB 544: SEXUAL HEALTH EDUCATION
This introductory course will provide students with an understanding of sexual health education philosophy, instructional techniques and an appreciation of the common challenges associated with comprehensive sexual health education. The impact of personal bias will be explored with respect to differing cultures, lifestyles and values. The course will focus on practical implementation of tools and skills for the service professional based on current evidence in the literature.
REHAB 545: SEXUALITY: ILLNESS AND DISABILITY
This course will provide the students with an understanding physical and mental changes associated with an illness, injury or disability as it affects sexual health adjustment. The course will provide an overview of sexuality in terms of basic anatomy, physiology, and sexual health issues as it relates to disability. The impact of disability and illness on sexual identity and functioning as well as specific sexual dysfunctions will also be covered. This course will also provide practical guidelines for dealing with specific sexual health concerns expressed by clients and their partners.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are $900 CND (same for international registrants) per course (there are 3 courses) Tuition payment can be used as a tax write-off as an educational expense. Term UofA non-instructional fees equal approx $175.
**Graduate course credit can be used towards a program of study as elective credit with the approval of the home institution.
Admission Requirements
Entrance requirements are:
1) completion of the online graduate application APPLY HERE
2) transcript submission from your most recent degree program completed.
Who is it for?
• Allied health professionals
• Nursing professionals
• Aspiring professionals in the field of counselling related to sexual health and well-being
• K-12 educators
• Other health practitioners seeking to broaden and expand their areas of expertise in the field
• Graduate students from rehabilitation medicine, nursing, education, psychology, human ecology