Civic Engagement Certificate (CIVC-CC)

CT State Community College Catalog 2023-2024 New students enrolling for the first time in Fall 2023 will begin as students of Connecticut State Community College under this catalog.  Continuing students from one of the 12 community colleges will be transitioned into a CT State program in this catalog as of the start of the Fall 2023 term. The policies, courses and programs described are applicable as of the Fall 2023 term and may be updated as circumstances require.

The Certificate in Civic Engagement will prepare students for careers designed to positively impact the civic well- being of their communities. This will be accomplished through a diverse array of coursework and a hands-on practicum/internship focusing on sensitizing students to the needs of the community. The Civic Engagement Certificate has a multi-disciplinary curriculum designed to prepare students to communicate effectively, make sound decisions, and effect change in their communities.

The Civic Engagement certificate consists of 18 credits made up of 15 required general education courses and culminating in a 3-credit practicum which includes 80 hours of field work of the student’s choosing in consultation with his or her advisor and the Director of the Civic Engagement Institute on the Farmington campus. Employers/businesses have become interested in socially responsible graduates. Students receiving this certificate meet that need and interest because they are prepared for the important role of addressing community needs and practicing civic responsibility.

Learning Outcomes:

• Define civic engagement and identify concrete examples of it both in the classroom and in the community.
• Describe their civic activity through an internship or practicum.
• Understand the interdisciplinary nature of required courses as it relates to civic engagement.
• Explain some of the community needs in terms of the social problems that exist in communities across the area.