The Advanced Certificate in Early Childhood Policy at the CUNY School of Professional Studies (CUNY SPS) is a fully online graduate program that prepares professionals to shape the future of early childhood education. This 12-credit certificate equips you with the tools to analyze, design, and advocate for policies that improve the lives of young children, families, and the early childhood workforce.

Whether you’re already working in early childhood education or looking to transition into leadership and advocacy, this program builds the expertise needed to influence change at local, state, and national levels.

Why Choose CUNY SPS for Early Childhood Policy?

• 100% Online & Flexible: Study on your own schedule with asynchronous online courses.
• Career Advancement: Stand out in the competitive field of early childhood leadership, policy, and advocacy.
• Pathway to a Master’s Degree: Credits earned can be applied toward the MA in Early Childhood Policy and Leadership at CUNY SPS.
• Expert Faculty: Learn from leaders at the New York Early Childhood Professional Development Institute and nationally experienced policy practitioners.
• CTLE Eligible: Courses approved to count towards CTLE hours
• Scholarships Available: Through EIP and QUALITYstarsNY

What You Will Learn

In this graduate certificate program, you will:

• Analyze how theory, research, and policy analysis shape early childhood education policy.
• Evaluate the impact of policies on equity, access, and quality in early childhood education.
• Develop communication skills to work with policymakers, educators, families, and community partners.
• Gain advocacy skills to design and influence policies that support children, families, and the workforce

Curriculum – 4 Courses (12 Credits)

The certificate program consists of four online courses designed by the Early Childhood Policy in Institutions of Higher Education initiative:

• ECE 660: History, Child Development, and Equity in Early Childhood Policy
• ECE 670: Examining Early Childhood Practices, Policies, and Key Issues
• ECE 680: Early Childhood Policy, Leadership, and Advocacy
• ECE 690: Theory, Analysis, and Research in Early Childhood Policy 

Who Should Apply?

This online early childhood policy certificate is ideal for:

• Educators and administrators who want to transition into policy and advocacy roles.
• Current leaders in early childhood programs seeking to strengthen their policy expertise.
• Professionals in government, nonprofits, or higher education working with children and families.
• Students preparing for graduate study, especially those planning to continue into the MA in Early Childhood Policy and Leadership.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the Advanced Certificate in Early Childhood Policy are prepared for roles such as:

• Early Childhood Policy Analyst or Advisor
• Program or Project Manager in Early Childhood Education
• Nonprofit or Government Agency Leader
• Advocate for Equity and Access in Early Childhood Education