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Peer Support Specialist Careers

Peer support specialist school programs

You use your lived experience with mental health or recovery to support others through encouragement, advocacy, and connection to resources.

Training: High school diploma or equivalent plus state-approved peer support training/certification.
Time to start: A few months to 1 year.
Next steps: Explore certification programs, connect with local peer organizations, and apply for entry-level support roles.

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School programs

William James College – Behavioral Health Service Corps

Provides workforce development and hands-on behavioral health training opportunities for individuals entering community-based behavioral health careers.

  • Pre-requisite education: High school diploma or equivalent typically required.

  • Estimated time to finish: Several weeks to 1 year, depending on program pathway.

  • Typical application months: Rolling throughout the year

Learn More about William James College – Behavioral Health Service Corps

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts – Public Health and Community Health

Offers community health and preventive health education focused on supporting wellness and connecting people to care and services.

  • Pre-requisite education: High school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate admission.

  • Estimated time to finish: Approximately 4 years for a bachelor’s degree.

  • Typical application months: November–March

Learn More about Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts – Public Health and Community Health

University of Massachusetts Amherst – Community Health Education

Offers public and community health programs that prepare students to support behavioral health and wellness initiatives.

  • Pre-requisite education: Bachelor’s degree typically required for graduate-level programs.

  • Estimated time to finish: 2–3 years for most graduate programs.

Learn More about University of Massachusetts Amherst – Community Health Education

Worcester State University – Community Health Program

Provides community health and counseling-related education focused on advocacy, outreach, and service coordination.

  • Pre-requisite education: High school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate programs; bachelor’s degree for graduate programs.

  • Estimated time to finish: 4 years for bachelor’s programs; 2–3 years for graduate programs.

Learn More about Worcester State University – Community Health Program

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