Advanced Certificate in Youth Studies

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Application Deadlines
  • Spring 2027 Priority Deadline: November 5, 2026
  • Spring 2027 Regular Deadline: December 3, 2026

Please note there is no application fee for graduate applications submitted by the Priority Deadline.

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Youth Studies is an emerging multidisciplinary field that spans the humanities, social sciences, the arts and sciences. Integrating theory, research, public policy, and youth work practice, Youth Studies provides an opportunity to deepen students’ understanding of the relationship of youth and society.

The Advanced Certificate in Youth Studies is a stackable credential which includes 12 credits toward the MA in Youth Studies. The certificate can be utilized for those who already have a masters degree but found themselves working with young people and want to upskill while being part of an active learning community. It can also be used by those who have not yet decided if they want to commit to a masters degree program.

Through online synchronous coursework, the Advanced Certificate in Youth Studies program provides the flexibility that people need with strong connections to professors and colleagues.

Mode of Learning

The Youth Studies program offers courses in an online asynchronous format, providing students with the flexibility to complete coursework on their own schedule while meeting established course deadlines.

Online synchronous sections may also be offered based on enrollment needs. When available, synchronous classes meet virtually in real time from 6:15 to 9:15 p.m. ET, allowing students to interact live with their professors and peers.

Educational/Career Prospects

  • Potential salary bump at participating agencies
  • Upskilling and a community of committed professionals
  • A stackable credential for those interested in an MA in Youth Studies.
  • A way to demonstrate master’s level capacity for those looking to do an MA in a related field

Scholarship Opportunities

Admissions Criteria

Candidates for admission to advanced certificate programs must possess a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA or higher from an accredited undergraduate institution. Applicants are also required to write a personal statement, upload a resume, and provide one letter of recommendation. The letter of recommendation may be submitted before or after submitting an application. An individual interview may be necessary if an applicant meets most but not all requirements.

Application Deadlines

  • Spring 2027 Priority Deadline: November 5, 2026
  • Spring 2027 Regular Deadline: December 3, 2026
Apply Now

Student/Alumni Profiles

Amanda Ebokosia

Amanda Ebokosia

MA/Advanced Certificate in Youth Studies

"My cohort has held a two-year WhatsApp group. It's like having your own cheer squad or support group in your pocket. I've now met colleagues who I consider to be real friends."
Carolina Moquete

Carolina Moquete

Advanced Certificate in Youth Studies

"It definitely empowered me to have a certain level of confidence in the work I was doing with young people that I didn’t necessarily have in my first year in the role."
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Chanira Rojas

MA/Advanced Certificate in Youth Studies

"We are a tight-knit group with a passion for providing youth with the tools they need to become empowered individuals that will change their lives and the lives of others."
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Carolina Moquete

Youth Studies

"The most gratifying aspect of my job is having the opportunity to plant seeds of what’s not only possible but realistic for my students to achieve. I get to help students impact their future in a positive way every single day."

Recent news about Advanced Certificate in Youth Studies

Resilient Futures Addressing Collective Trauma and Marginalization in Out-of-School Time Spaces

September 30, 2026

Emerald Publishing

CUNY SPS alum Traciz Geraldo (MA Youth Studies '19) co-authored a book that addresses the trauma youth faced as a result of both the COVID-19 pandemic and the social/racial reckoning that occurred during that time. The recently published book,"Resilient Futures Addressing Collective Trauma and Marginalization in Out-of-School Time Spaces," examines how youth and practitioners are dealing with the collective trauma and opportunity facing this generation of young people.
CUNY SPS student working at a desk.

Five CUNY SPS Faculty Awarded Open Educational Resources Grant

September 17, 2026

To expand their cost-saving work for CUNY SPS students, several faculty members received grants to redesign their courses and replace proprietary textbooks with customized open educational resources.

Reports Investing in the Workforce to Sustain and Expand Youth Services in NYC

August 17, 2026

Youth Today

Dr. Sarah Zeller-Berkman, distinguished lecturer for the CUNY SPS Youth Studies program, published an article in "Youth Today" about a report prepared by The Collaborative for Advancing Youth Development (CAYD). Dr. Zeller-Berman's piece discusses the need to expand access to youth after-school programs across New York City and CAYD's staffing recommendations to achieve these goals. CUNY SPS partners with CAYD to strengthen and amplify youth development across New York City.

From Training to Education: College Credit for Youth Workers

April 15, 2026

Youth Today

CUNY SPS Youth Studies alum Jen Curry writes about the importance of Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) in higher education programs, particularly for people working with youth. Since youth workers considering college often contend with financial obstacles, CPL offers students cost and time-saving options that can fast-track their degrees. In this Op-ed piece for "Youth Today," Curry speaks about her own experience at CUNY SPS, where she was able to maximize the benefits of CPL.

From Training to Education: College Credit for Youth Workers

April 15, 2026

Youth Today

CUNY SPS Youth Studies alum Jen Curry writes about the importance of Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) in higher education programs, particularly for people working with youth. Since youth workers considering college often contend with financial obstacles, CPL offers students cost and time-saving options that can fast-track their degrees. In this Op-ed piece for "Youth Today," Curry speaks about her own experience at CUNY SPS, where she was able to maximize the benefits of CPL.