We are exploring ways in which this program can be strengthened to better meet student needs and professional outcomes. We look forward to enrolling students in the near future. To let us know of your interest or for more information please contact the College of Letters and Sciences at (858) 642-8450.
Bereavement permeates all areas of life. The way one understands oneself and one’s world is completely shattered, requiring multiple transitions within multiple systems in which one is embedded. Sometimes these transitions and the way one reconstructs the world becomes complicated, resulting in grief responses that interfere with meaning-making and integration of the loss. Therefore, those in a helping role who understand the integrative nature of loss are in need. This bereavement certificate aims at educating learners from all walks of life in the area of death, loss, and bereavement. The graduate of this program may sit for the Certification in Thanatology (death studies), which results in an individual’s credential as a Certified Thanatologist. Those with this specialization can work in areas such as palliative and hospice care, geriatric facilities, post death services, spiritual counseling, hospitals, mental health, consultation, community health, educational settings, and rehabilitation centers, to name just a few.
(8 courses; 36 quarter units)
BER 600 - Intro to Bereavement Studies
BER 601 - Treatment of Bereavement
Prerequisite: BER 600
BER 602 - Culture and Bereavement
Prerequisite: BER 600
BER 603 - Bereavement Throughout Life
Prerequisite: BER 600
BER 604 - Dying Patient and the Family
Prerequisite: BER 600
BER 605 - Bereavement and Spirituality
Prerequisite: BER 600
BER 606 - Bereavement in the Workplace
Prerequisite: BER 600
BER 699 - Integrated Seminar
Prerequisite: BER 600 (BER 600 and four courses in the Bereavement Certificate Program)
This program is available online.