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Case Management Program - Frequently Asked Questions
I see there is an application process, how long will it take to receive a response?
- Depending on when the application is received, applicants can expect to receive a response within 2-3 weeks.
- Please visit the website for Application Due Dates.
The program is listed as a “post-degree” program, but I do not have a college or university diploma/degree. I have worked for many years as a Case Manager at my place of employment. Am I still eligible to apply?
- Yes, students who do not have a college/university degree or diploma may apply to the program. Included with your application form is a letter of intent in which you can highlight your professional experience as a case manager.
- Contact the Program Manager regarding your eligibility for the program.
What is involved in completing the Certificate in Case Management?
- In order to receive the Certificate in Case Management, all five courses in the program must be completed. These five courses comprise the required number of units for the Certificate – 15 units of study.
Do I have to complete the entire certificate or diploma?
- There is no requirement to complete the program once started; however, an application is still required before enrolling in a course.
How long will it take to complete the program?
- Students may complete the certificate in one full year. This requires taking multiple courses in each term.
- This is only an estimate. Individuals should gauge other time commitments to determine a realistic completion target. Students can consult with the Program Manager to prepare a study plan for their program.
- Students are asked to complete the program within a 5 year time frame.
How heavy is the course workload?
- Homework is an expectation in all courses. Readings and/or assignments are typically assigned on a weekly basis. Participation with on-line discussions (synchronous or asynchronous) and group work activities are a part of each course.
How many courses should I take in one term?
- This is an individual decision based on other time commitments such as home life and work.
- Some students enrol in one class per term; some enrol in two classes per term.
- Regardless of a student’s coursework load, the program is defined as a part-time program of study.
Can I transfer my previous academic courses to the program?
- Due to the number of courses required for the Certificate (5 courses), transferring credits from other post-secondary education programs is not permitted.
- Professional experience and workshops/conference attendance are not transferable for credit courses.
I am a student completing undergraduate studies and I think the Case Management courses will complement my chosen program. Will I be able to use the Certificate in Case Management to gain extra credits?
- You will want to consult with the Program Manager regarding your eligibility for the program as it is a post-degree program.
- If you are pursuing degree studies at McMaster University, you may be eligible to receive up to 15 units of undergraduate academic credit, as determined by the Faculty of your undergraduate program.
- Students are advised to contact their Faculty inquire about this option.
I am interested in pursuing an additional undergraduate degree. Will my Case Management course be eligible for advanced standing with my Faculty?
- Students who have successfully completed the Certificate in Case Management, and who wish to pursue degree studies at McMaster University may be eligible to receive up to 15 units of undergraduate academic credit, as determined by the Faculty to which they are applying. Students must have completed their program and be accepted into the Faculty before this advanced standing is granted.
- For application information to degree studies, visit the Registrar's Web site: http://registrar.mcmaster.ca .
- McMaster University does not offer any related degrees in distance format. You may wish to investigate Athabasca University, where the Certificate and Diploma are both recognized as advanced standing towards the Bachelor of Professional Arts, Human Services Major (www.athabascau.ca ). For a wide variety of other distance degrees and programs, please visit the Canadian Virtual University (www.cvu-uvc.ca ). Although no formal agreements exist for advanced standing in these degrees, I recommend that you investigate this option with the individual universities.
I am interested in completing a degree in distance format/online format?
- McMaster University does not offer any related degrees in distance format. You may wish to investigate Athabasca University, where the Certificate program is recognized as advanced standing towards the Bachelor of Professional Arts, Human Services Major (www.athabascau.ca ).
Athabasca University
Athabasca University recognizes the case management certificate as advanced standing toward their Bachelor of Professional Arts degree, Human Services Major. The certificate is accepted a 15 credits. Pease visit www.athabascau.ca for details.
Thompson Rivers University, Open Learning
Thompson Rivers University, Open Learning, recognizes the Case Management Certificate for advanced standing in the following programs:
- Bachelor of Health Sciences (up to 15 credits at the lower level)
- Bachelor of General Studies (15 credits at the lower level)
- Diploma in General Studies (up to 15 credits)
- Certificate in General Studies (up to 15 credits)
For details on the above programs, please visit www.openlearning.tru.ca .
I have not been in school for a while. How are students evaluated?
- Students are expected to write papers and prepare assignments at a university undergraduate level using word processing software. Some classes have tests; on-line case studies, web-based research, self-assessment, group assignments and presentations, research within your local community and a variety of written reports.
Are there any professional associations that I could join?
- Case managers are found in a variety of professional settings. Some organizations that provide networking opportunities, membership opportunities and other services & benefits include:
National Case Management Network (NCMN)
Vocational Rehabilitation Association (VRA)