What is the Gallaudet University Peer Mentoring Certificate Program?
The Gallaudet University Peer Mentoring Certificate Program is a certificate program designed to help train deaf, hard-of-hearing, and late-deafened individuals in meeting the diverse needs of individuals with hearing loss. Individuals will be trained to provide information, support, empathy, validation, and skills to consumers in need. Peer mentors will also be able to conduct needs assessments, problem-solve, and establish goals and objectives to improve the quality of life for these individuals. Lastly, peer mentors will help to establish effective use of assistive hearing technology, and ensure equal and appropriate access to communication.
How long is the Program? What is the content of the Program?
The program is comprised of a 12-credit (unit) curriculum that is contained in seven courses completed over a period of two years, with one course a semester. This program uses a distance-learning model for five of the courses, and a short on-site seminar model for two courses: one 2-day and one 4-day. The predominately online format allows for individuals to balance work and family with the program, taking most classes in the comfort of your home. Scheduled ‘live’ chat discussions typically take place in the evening one night a week. There will also be interactive discussion boards, assignments, readings, etc. Below is a table listing the course titles and credits. Click on the course name to view a brief course description.
| Course Name | Units | Location |
| PST 775: Opening Seminar: Orientation to Peer Mentoring | 1 | Campus |
| PST 776: Hearing Loss in America: An Overview | 2 | Online |
| PST 777: Practical Audiology: Fundamentals for Consumers | 2 | Online |
| PST 778: Biopsychosocial Aspects of Hearing Loss | 2 | Online |
| PST 779: Hearing Assistive Technology | 2 | Online |
| PST 780: Peer Mentoring for Hearing Loss | 2 | Online |
| PST 781: Final Seminar: Applications of Peer Mentoring | 1 | Campus |
Who are the instructors?
Courses are taught by aural rehabilitationists, audiologists, and graduate students with exceptional skills in the area of audiology and aural rehabilitation. Materials for the Peer Mentoring Program have been written by both professionals and consumers and are updated as needed for subsequent years.
What is the cost of the program?
Tuition cost is $268 per credit and will go up to $279 per credit this Fall, 2015. There is also a $75 processing fee upon registering with the program. You are responsible for travel and lodging during the on site courses. You can find more information located in the Application section, as well as possible grant-funded scholarship information.
What credentials will I have when I complete this program?
Upon completion, the successful graduate will receive a Certificate in Peer Mentoring from Gallaudet University under the Center for Continuing Studies.
What will I be able to do with my training once I have completed this program?
While the concept of professional peer mentors is much needed, peer mentoring within audiology is revolutionary and not yet established. Individuals who have graduated from the program report they benefit most through self-growth. Additionally, alumni vary on how they use their training, but most apply the skills acquired from the program to their current jobs, or to advocacy and outreach within their community. Many use the certificate as evidence of their ability to serve the deaf and hard-of-hearing population in various areas. Lastly, several of our graduates are Life Coaches and apply their training from the program to specialize in serving the deaf and hard-of-hearing program.
Who do I contact for more information?
Please review the website for information regarding this program. More information can be found on the Application page or on Gallaudet's website at http://www.gallaudet.edu/CCS/Certificate_Programs.html. If you have specific questions not addressed in the website or want to request additional information, email admissions@peers4access.org.