Undergraduate Microprogram in Safeguarding Minors and Vulnerable Adults

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Sexual assault, whose victims are minors and vulnerable adults, is a terrible reality. It is a criminal act that has long-term consequences and causes serious harm to survivors and communities.

Better protecting minors and vulnerable adults from abuse is the primary objective of this training, which will provide students with skills that will surely be of interest to future employers, in addition to their usefulness in everyday life, given the large number of victims of sexual abuse in society, whether in the Church, in sports, in youth movements or in families.

Program requirements

Compulsory Courses (6 units)

  • HTP1110 Introduction to the Safeguarding of Minors and Vulnerable Persons (3u)
  • HTP2101 Sexual Abuse, Trauma and Care (3u)

Optional Courses

9 units from:

  • DCA4101 Guidelines on Safeguarding Minors and Vulnerable Persons (3u)
  • DCA4102 Canon Law on Safeguarding Minors and Vulnerable Persons (3u)
  • HTP2102 Ethics and Care Provision (3u)
  • HTP3102 Ethics, Power and Vulnerability (3u)
  • HTP4101 Directed Readings (3u)
  • HTP4102 Special Topics in Safeguarding of Minors and Vulnerable Persons (3u)
  • THO3150 Theological and Structural Dimensions of the Crisis of Abuse (3u)
    Or any other course approved by the Dean of the Faculty of Canon Law.

Courses

DCA4101 Guidelines on Safeguarding Minors and Vulnerable Persons (3u)

Study of the norms of the Universal Church and of the particular Churches for the development of guidelines for safeguarding minors and vulnerable persons, with focus on essential elements of these guidelines. Comparison of the guidelines of various particular Churches.

DCA4102 Canon Law on Safeguarding Minors and Vulnerable Persons (3u)

An overview of the “proactive” and “reactive” canonical responses of the Church to the sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable persons. Development of laws, universal and particular, and their practical application.

HTP1110 Introduction to the Safeguarding of Minors and Vulnerable Persons (3u)

The issue of sexual abuse in the society and Church. Definitions, causes and prevention.

HTP2101 Sexual Abuse, Trauma and Care (3u)

The physical, psychological and spiritual consequences of sexual abuse as well as the means of care for victims.

HTP2102 Ethics and Care Provision (3u)

Ethical considerations in helping relationships. Risk factors and factors that contribute to the well-being of the person seeking help, from the perspective of the ethics of care.

HTP3102 Ethics, Power and Vulnerability (3u)

Ethical analysis of the concepts of power and vulnerability in the context of working with vulnerable people.

HTP4101 Directed Readings (3u)

Advanced study of a subject already analyzed as part of the program, exploration of a theme in the field of safeguarding of minors and vulnerable persons.

HTP4102 Special Topics in Safeguarding of Minors and Vulnerable Persons (3u)

Study of a particular theme in the field of safeguarding of minors and vulnerable persons.

THO3150 Theological and Structural Dimensions of the Crisis of Abuse (3u)

A theological exploration of the institutional dimensions of the abuse crisis including distortions of theology and pastoral practice that foster a false sacralization of ordained priesthood, the culture of clericalism, and perceptions of celibate life. The bases for ecclesial reform in a sound theology of ministry, of pastoral responsibility, transparency, and accountability to the people of God in a truly synodal church.

How to Register

Students wishing to register for one or more courses should visit the following page: Non-degree Students .

For more information, contact us at CPCS@ustpaul.ca