Credentials

Comprehensive FDC training and portfolio advisement is available through official training programs in local communities across New York State. For information about where FDC programs are being offered, contact Katie Palmer-House, FDC Senior Instructor , phone/fax: 845-877-3410; e-mail- kep26@cornell.edu.

For technical assistance and support for training programs or other inquiries about the FDC curriculum, contact Katie Palmer-House, FDC Senior Instructor, kep26@cornell.edu.

FDC Course - Participate in approximately 90-hour course over several months, led by an official FDC instructor.

Portfolio advisement - Students work with a trained portfolio advisor associated with the course, who provides guidance to complete required portfolio work.

Portfolio Development - Prepare a portfolio that contains, for each of ten chapters:

Responses to at least three “Activities to Extend Your Learning” from the Worker Handbook.
Plan and carry out at least one skills practice for each chapter.
Share this with your portfolio advisor and document it in the portfolio.
The last section of the portfolio contains three Family Development Plans that the worker creates with one family, to demonstrate an ability to work with family member(s) as they choose a goal and begin to take steps toward that goal.

Examination - Successfully complete an examination based on "Forest,C. (2003). Empowerment Skills for Family Workers, Ithaca, NY: Cornell Family Development Press (distributed by Cornell University Press)." Costs include a fee charged by the local FDC program (fees vary, averaging around $850), the Worker Handbook ($35) and a $250 credentialing fee charged by Cornell.