The Youth Studies programs at CUNY School of Professional Studies equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to design, run, research, and work in youth settings. Our degrees attract people who work in various settings (after-schools, community centers, college and career, child welfare, advocacy, arts/sports/religious youth development) with youth ages 12-24. Build connections to professors and colleagues while earning credits from the comfort of your own home.
BA in Youth Studies
120 Credits | Online Synchronous/Asynchronous
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.
Program Highlights:
- Transfer up to 105 credits
- Opportunities to receive Credit for Prior Learning (SACC, FDC, CDA and more)
- BA to MA Track-earn up to 9 credits
- Most courses have zero textbook cost
Educational/Career Prospects:
- Run or work in programs for youth, communities, and families in after-schools, community centers, hospitals, credible messenger networks, juvenile justice, schools, child welfare, arts and sports-based youth development, advocacy/activism, college access, and success and workforce development.
- Great preparation for a Masters in Youth Studies, Social Work, Education and more.
Application Deadlines
- Spring 2027 Priority Deadline: November 3, 2026
- Spring 2027 Regular Deadline: December 1, 2026
Adv Cert in Youth Studies
12 Credits | Online Synchronous/Asynchronous
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.
Program Highlights:
- All 12 credits transfer to the MA in Youth Studies
- Most courses have zero textbook cost
- Scholarships (DYCD Scholars)
Educational/Career Prospects:
- Potential salary bump at participating agencies
- Upskilling for those who already have master's degree
- A stackable credential for those interested but not yet ready to commit to an MA in Youth Studies.
- A way to demonstrate master's level capacity for those looking to do an MA in a related field
Application Deadlines
- Spring 2027 Priority Deadline: November 5, 2026
- Spring 2027 Regular Deadline: December 3, 2026
MA in Youth Studies
30 Credits | Online Synchronous/Asynchronous
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.
Program Highlights:
- Students can participate in socially engaged research labs
- Most courses have zero textbook cost
- Scholarships available (DYCD Scholars, Youth Studies Scholarship)
- Potential to earn up to 15 credits/5 courses to be applied towards eligible Doctoral Programs
- Approved Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE) Sponsor
- Opportunity to receive Credit for Prior Learning for The Family Development Credential Program
Educational/Career Prospects:
- Leadership positions at youth-serving organizations and/or city agencies (middle/upper management).
- Capacity building
- Teaching in higher education
- Consultancy
- Research/Evaluation
- Entrepreneurial Youth Development
- Development/grant writing
- PhD programs in related fields (Youth Studies, Psychology, Education, etc)
Application Deadlines
- Spring 2027 Priority Deadline: November 5, 2026
- Spring 2027 Regular Deadline: December 3, 2026
