Frequently Asked Questions
Graduate Certificate in Crisis Response and Behavioral Health FAQ
What is the Graduate Certificate in Crisis Response and Behavioral Health?
Students will gain both practical training and graduate certification in crisis response and behavioral health at William James College. Law enforcement and mental health professionals will receive an interdisciplinary education in co-response to prepare them to respond to and resolve crisis situations before force is needed.
What is Co-Response?
Co-Response is a model with more than 20 years of operation in the Commonwealth and has spread nationwide. The model embeds mental health clinicians in law enforcement settings to accompany police officers on all calls for service/911 calls. It is intended to de-escalate, divert from unnecessary arrest, divert from overwhelmed emergency departments, and fully support the acute needs of individuals in crisis.
Who is eligible to apply for this graduate certificate program?
Law Enforcement: Priority will be given to Massachusetts law enforcement officers currently responding to 911 calls. Law enforcement applicants must have an undergraduate degree.
Clinicians: Clinicians must have a master’s degree and be currently serving in the role of a Co-Responder or commit to working in Co-Response in Massachusetts for at least two years upon completion of the graduate certificate.
What are the prerequisites for this program?
All applicants must be in possession of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. Clinician applicants ONLY must also have a master's degree. There is no GRE requirement.
How many credits and classroom hours can be expected?
A first-of-its-kind program, our Graduate Certificate in Crisis Response and Behavioral Health can be completed in 10-credits over 150 classroom hours.
Is there a required residency?
Yes. The graduate certificate program requires one week “in residence” to include five full days, Monday through Friday. No overnight requirement.
How much does this graduate certificate program cost?
Massachusetts-based applicants who meet established criteria will be eligible for a full scholarship through the MA Department of Mental Health Jail Diversion Program.
Is this program available for online learning?
No, this program is 100% in-person and on campus.