Certificate in Case Management
Hours: 18 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Case Management at Fort Hays State University provides psychology majors with specialized training in case management. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes coursework on abnormal psychology, human services, and substance use disorders. The certificate coursework and apprenticeship experiences equip students with the foundational skills and knowledge to pursue national certification in case management to become integral members of behavioral and mental health treatment teams.
Students will learn to apply their knowledge in real-world situations through an apprenticeship course, which provides practical experience. Upon successful completion, graduates will be prepared to support clients with mental health and behavioral needs by coordinating resources and understanding effective treatment plans.
Why pursue a Certificate in Case Management at Fort Hays State University?
The Certificate in Case Management at Fort Hays State University provides a flexible, comprehensive curriculum with both online and on-campus options. Students will gain hands-on experience through an applied apprenticeship course, allowing them to build professional networks and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Compared to similar programs, the curriculum is uniquely tailored to psychology majors. It emphasizes practical applications in behavioral and mental health.
FHSU's commitment to student success is evident in its focus on ethical practices and collaborative processes in mental health care. The university's expert faculty brings real-world case management experience to the classroom, ensuring students are well-prepared to support clients and treatment teams upon graduation.
Who is this program for?
The Certificate in Case Management is ideal for students and professionals seeking specialized behavioral and mental health case management training. Whether you want to enhance your psychology education or pursue a new career path, this program offers the skills and practical experience required to excel in healthcare settings. Specifically, this program is for:
- Psychology majors aiming to specialize in case management roles
- Students seeking to improve their understanding of behavioral and mental health
- Individuals interested in starting a new career in case management
- Professionals in human services, social work, or counseling looking for continuing education
- Registered nurses, social workers, and healthcare practitioners are expanding their skillset
- Those seeking case manager certification and enhanced job prospects
Learning Outcomes
The Certificate in Case Management at Fort Hays State University prepares students to excel in case management roles within behavioral and mental health settings. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the case manager role, emphasizing the development of essential skills required for effective resource coordination, collaborative processes, and treatment planning. Graduates will have the knowledge and practical experience to pursue case manager certification and secure employment in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and community organizations. Upon completing the certificate program, students will have gained the following learning outcomes:
Coordinate Resources and Support Systems
Graduates will learn to coordinate resources and develop support systems for clients in behavioral and mental health settings. Students will connect clients with community resources and services that meet their unique needs by understanding the collaborative process and working with registered nurses, social workers, and other professionals.
Demonstrate Ethical Practices in Case Management
The program emphasizes ethical practices in mental health care, ensuring students are well-versed in the standards required for professional certification. Students will understand the principles of confidentiality, autonomy, and informed consent while maintaining professional boundaries and advocating for clients' rights.
Understand the Role of Case Managers in Healthcare Settings
Graduates will develop a comprehensive understanding of the case manager role, particularly in healthcare settings like hospitals and medical organizations. This knowledge includes utilization review, treatment planning, and interdisciplinary collaboration, equipping students to pursue job prospects as certified case managers.
Understand Comprehensive Treatment Plans
Students will learn about comprehensive treatment plans that address clients’ diverse behavioral health needs. This includes understanding the assessment process, setting measurable goals, and coordinating with healthcare professionals to ensure clients receive appropriate care. These plans will exemplify the high-quality case management practices needed for employment in the field.
Real-World Applications
Students will develop ingenuity and creativity in tackling case management challenges through coursework and an applied apprenticeship course. The curriculum covers critical topics like human services, substance use disorders, and treatment planning, providing students with the skills to coordinate resources and support systems for clients.
This hands-on approach ensures graduates are well-versed in the practicalities of behavioral and mental health settings. By learning to assess client needs and understand comprehensive treatment plans, students will be ready to make a meaningful impact as integral members of treatment teams.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The program's curriculum is designed to keep students updated with the latest trends and advancements in behavioral and mental health. Courses emphasize ethical practices, collaborative processes, and innovative treatment strategies, ensuring students stay current in this rapidly evolving field.
Faculty members integrate contemporary research and case studies into their teaching, providing students with relevant and practical insights. From substance abuse prevention strategies to advancements in treatment planning, students will graduate well-prepared to address the challenges of modern case management.
Hands-on Activities
The applied apprenticeship course offers students invaluable hands-on experience, giving students a taste of real-world case management tasks. Students will be able to interact directly with clients, treatment teams, and families, building practical skills in resource coordination and support systems.
In addition to the apprenticeship course, students will participate in coursework projects, applying their knowledge to case studies and treatment planning exercises. These experiential activities help students build professional networks while gaining the expertise needed to excel in behavioral and mental health settings.
What You’ll Learn:
- Understand the principles of case management
- Develop skills in resource coordination and support systems
- Gain insights into substance abuse and treatment planning
- Learn the importance of ethical practices in mental health
- Explore collaborative approaches in behavioral health settings
How You’ll Learn:
- Courses focusing on psychology and mental health
- Hands-on apprenticeship course
- Real-world applications in treatment planning
- Choose electives based on specific career goals
- Learn from experts in case management and mental health
The core curriculum of the Certificate in Case Management provides students with a robust foundation in case management principles and skills. Critical courses like Abnormal Psychology and Human Services in Case Management offer insights into psychological disorders, resource coordination, and the essential role of case managers in behavioral health settings. Students also delve into substance use disorders, where they explore the complexities of addiction and understand ethical treatment strategies.
In addition to theoretical coursework, the program includes an applied apprenticeship course that offers direct, hands-on experience in real-world behavioral and mental health settings. This practical component allows students to apply their knowledge in treatment planning and resource coordination while building professional networks. Graduates emerge with the comprehensive skill set needed to excel in case management roles and make a positive impact in behavioral and mental health care.
PSY 300: Abnormal Psychology
This course is a study of the classification, description, and treatment of human psychological disorders.
PSY 375: Case Management in a Mental Health Setting
This course is designed as an introduction to evidence-based practices and the basic applied principles of the work done by Case Managers in a Mental Health Setting. Mental Health Case Management principles and approaches with SPMI-designated adults, and SED-designated children and youth clients and their families to help ensure they can live in the most independent, productive, and dignified manner possible.
PSY 400: Child and Developmental Psychology
This survey course deals with the theoretical assumptions of why behavior changes occur during the individual's growth and development.
Discover the full Certificate in Case Management course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
The Certificate in Case Management at Fort Hays State University opens doors to various behavioral and mental health care career opportunities. Graduates are equipped with the skills and practical experience required to thrive as integral members of treatment teams. By combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on apprenticeship experiences, students can pursue impactful careers that make a difference in clients' lives. Here are potential career paths:
Certified Case Manager
National certification is needed to become a Case Manager. As a certified case manager, you may coordinate and facilitate comprehensive treatment plans for clients in behavioral and mental health settings. Case Managers assess client needs, identify appropriate resources, and collaborate with registered nurses, social workers, and other professionals to ensure quality care. Their role is crucial in hospitals, community organizations, and healthcare settings where they advocate for clients and improve treatment outcomes.
Human Services Specialist
Human services specialists assist clients in navigating social services and accessing resources for their behavioral health needs. They provide guidance, support, and referrals to community organizations, government programs, and healthcare facilities. Graduates can work in non-profit organizations, government agencies, or private practice, helping individuals and families improve their quality of life.
Substance Abuse Counselor
Substance abuse counselors focus on helping individuals struggling with addiction to find effective treatment and support. They conduct assessments, create personalized treatment plans, and provide counseling services to individuals and families. Graduates can work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or private practices, offering valuable support to those seeking recovery.
Utilization Review Specialist
Utilization review specialists ensure that clients receive the appropriate level of care while maintaining cost-effectiveness. They review treatment plans, evaluate medical necessity, and collaborate with healthcare providers to coordinate services. Graduates can find employment in hospitals, insurance companies, or healthcare organizations, where their expertise in resource coordination is highly valued.
Behavioral Health Technician
Behavioral health technicians support treatment teams in delivering care to individuals with mental health disorders. They monitor patient progress, assist with treatment plans, and provide direct care under the supervision of healthcare professionals. Graduates can work in psychiatric hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or community mental health facilities, gaining valuable professional experience in behavioral health care.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,961.90* (on-campus) or $3,859.95* (online)* per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the undergraduate resident/regional tuition rate ($197.46/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online graduate tuition rate (257.33/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Fort Hays State University offers several related programs to complement the Certificate in Case Management or help you explore other interests within the field. Consider these programs to broaden your expertise and career opportunities:
- B.S. in Psychology
- B.A. in Psychology
- Master of Science in Clinical Psychology
- Master of Science in School Psychology
Students must be psychology majors to enroll in this certificate program.
Yes, the program offers both online and on-campus options.
The program comprises 18 credit hours and can typically be completed within two semesters.
The apprenticeship course provides hands-on experience in behavioral and mental health settings, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Yes, the coursework and apprenticeship equip students with the foundational skills and knowledge to pursue the Certificate in Case Management. Note that additional certification beyond this coursework is needed to become a certified case manager.
Department Information
The Department of Psychology at FHSU offers innovative experiential learning opportunities that allow students to explore psychology theory and understand the human mind. Committed to excellence in education and research, the department prepares students to contribute to local and global communities as knowledgeable citizens and lifelong learners. With award-winning faculty, the department provides high-quality education, fostering strong student-faculty relationships and offering meaningful internships through local partnerships.
Students engage in collaborative research, participate in scholarly activities, and gain practical experience in dedicated research labs and community settings. Graduates of the psychology programs are well-equipped to pursue rewarding careers, having developed professional skills and a deep understanding of psychological science. The department offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, on-campus and online, ensuring students receive the necessary support and resources to succeed.
While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.
- Psychology Club: Open to all students interested in psychology, this club offers volunteer activities, community outreach programs, and events like Depression Awareness Week. The club aims to promote the study of psychology, foster educational enrichment, and provide social services to the community and its members.
- Psi Chi: The National Honor Society in Psychology, Psi Chi, recognizes academic excellence and provides opportunities for students to engage in research, network with professionals, and participate in conferences. Membership benefits include international recognition, leadership development, and opportunities to present research at regional and national levels.
- Graduate Association of Students of Psychology (GASP): GASP provides a social network for graduate students, offering opportunities for fun, relaxation, and forming friendships. The organization helps students transition from academic life to the professional world through informational meetings and faculty interaction.
- Certificate
- On-Campus
- Online
