Program at a glance
- 2 semester course – PSY 371 & 372
- Fulfills MSU’s experiential learning requirement
- 6 credits, 3 per semester
- Offered every semester, including summers
- Small class size
- Intensive training on topics such as positive youth development, strengths-based approach, trauma-informed practice, emotional intelligence, professionalism, communication, and more.
- MSU students looking to make a difference and who can fully commit to this 18-week intervention would be a good fit for this program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Adolescent Diversion Program (ADP)?
The Adolescent Diversion Program (ADP) is a two-semester, in-person practicum (PSY 371 & PSY 372) that provides hands-on experience working with youth involved in the juvenile justice system.
Students are trained in foundational concepts such as Positive Youth Development, trauma-informed care, and the ecological model, then matched with a youth from the Ingham County court system. Over the course of the program, students serve as advocates, supporting youth in building strengths, setting goals, and connecting with community resources.
ADP has been operating since 1976 and is a long-standing partnership between MSU, the Psychology Department, and the Ingham County Family Court.
Key details:
- Courses: PSY 371 (Fall/Spring/Summer), then PSY 372 (following semester)
- Length: Two semesters (18 weeks)
- Credits: 6
- Time commitment: ~8 hours/week in addition to class time and travel time
- Open to students from any major.
Note: Fall and Spring are the most competitive terms, and placement timing may vary.
What will I gain from this experience?
Through ADP, students develop both professional skills and real-world experience, including:
- Direct, hands-on work with youth in a community setting.
- Communication, relationship-building, and advocacy skills.
- Experience with case management, documentation, and goal setting.
- Exposure to the juvenile justice system and community-based interventions.
Is this experience for me?
ADP may be a strong fit if you:
- Want direct, people-centered experience.
- Are interested in working with youth or in community-based settings.
- Can commit to a structured, multi-semester experience.
- Have a flexible schedule, reliable transportation, and can meet regularly with a youth (6-8 hours/week).
- Are considering careers in social work, therapy/counseling, law, law enforcement, education, or community advocacy.
No prior experience is required, but students who succeed in ADP are typically reliable, self-directed, professional, and open to learning through real-world challenges. It is also encouraged that students take at least 2 or 3 other PSY courses before participating.
How do I participate?
To get started:
- Contact ADP staff to express interest and schedule an interview.
- Complete the interview process (required for enrollment).