IIRP created the programme to educate professionals concerning restorative practices, defined as “the science of restoring and developing social capital, social discipline, emotional well-being and civic participation through participatory learning and decision-making.” The two degree programmes, in Restorative Practices and Youth Counseling and in Restorative Practices and Education, will have a heavy research focus to encourage research in the development of the field. The programmes are targetted at professionals already working in education or youth counselling. There is also a possibility for internships with the Community Service Foundation and Buxmont Academy.

The non-degree certificate programme allows professionals who are not interested in pursuing a graduate degree to gain knowledge and skills in the area of restorative practices. This certificate requires completion of a 12 hour core curriculum covering the basics of restorative processes and three professional seminars. While students in the certificate programme are not considered as students in the graduate programme, they are welcome to apply for admission to either of the master’s programmes at a later date.

The first four courses in the core curriculum will be offered in the fall. Since it is anticipated that many of the graduate students will commute from relatively long distances, courses will be offered on weekends in either a full Saturday class or in a Saturday and Sunday class. As the programme develops, IIRP will determine the course schedules that best fit students needs, based on their feedback.

For more information on the graduate programme visit http://www.iirp.org/master_degree_programs.php


Lynette Parker
August 2006