Family Support Services

Career Pathway Certificate

About the Program

The Family Support Services four-term program is designed to provide pre-employment training and education for entry-level family support workers through classroom studies and practical training. Graduates may serve families as family advocates, home visitors, parent educators, or family outreach workers, among other occupations. Coursework for this program spans the disciplines of human services and early childhood development to provide a strong base for work with children and families in a variety of settings. It is designed to accommodate both full- and part-time students and those currently employed in the field. Embedded within the program is training which meets requirements for community health worker certification through the Oregon Health Authority.

Some courses in this program may not transfer to other institutions. Students intending to transfer should seek advisor assistance to determine transferability.

Program Learning Outcomes

The curriculum in RCC courses is derived from a set of identified learning outcomes that are relevant to the discipline. Program learning outcomes for the Family Support Services Career Pathway Certificate are:

Explain the benefits of a two-generation approach in creating healthy, stable, and attached families.

Describe strategies to build positive reciprocal relationships with families as the foundation of supporting growth and development.

Explain the importance of fostering family and community engagement to promote children’s positive development.

Entry Requirements

Students are required to complete the Placement Process to determine skill level and readiness in math, reading, and writing. As part of their training program, students must begin with the courses within their skill level as determined through the Placement Process.

Many courses in this department require participation in community schools, programs, and agencies for observation and practicum experiences. Practicum placement and classroom observations will require proof of measles immunization status, RCC Student ID, and may require proof of COVID vaccination status or criminal history background check. More information is available from the Early Childhood and Elementary Education Department.

Advanced Standing

Coursework from accredited colleges and universities will be accepted in accordance with college policies and the Early Childhood and Elementary Education Department Chair’s approval. In order to ensure that coursework is current, program courses over 10 years old must be reviewed and approved by the appropriate department chair before being accepted toward core requirements. Each College Now credit student must meet with the Early Childhood and Elementary Education Department Chair to determine placement.

Completion Requirements

To graduate, students must complete all courses in this program with a grade of “C-” or better. Certain prerequisite courses are graded on a pass/no pass basis only. A grade of “P” for these courses indicates a student earned the equivalent of a “C-” or better grade.

This guide lays out an optimal path to graduate. Where zero credits are listed in the prerequisites, students may place into a higher level(s) based on designated placement. Note: some prerequisites may be required for graduation. Please consult an advisor with any program completion questions.