Exploring New Directions: Conducting a Feasibility Study for a Potential New Credential

The Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP), a membership association of more than 6,000 child life specialists, was considering the development of a new, advanced-level credential to complement its existing “flagship” program. Based on feedback obtained through a recent job analysis study, practitioners believed advanced skills existed that ACLP could assess and recognize. ACLP understood the need to strategically approach the development of a potential new program—carefully weighing the need for an additional layer of assessment at the advanced-level, return on the investment required to develop a quality certification program, and the specific skills that differentiate an advanced-level practitioner.

The organization partnered with SeaCrest to conduct a feasibility study exploring the organization’s need for and interest in an advanced-level certification or assessment-based certificate program for child life professionals.