The graduate certificate in Child & Youth Policy at Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human Development is for early childhood professionals who want to strengthen their knowledge of child, youth, and family policy to work on behalf of children (ages 0–12) and adolescents (ages 13–20) being served in education, health, or juvenile justice settings.
As a student in the Child & Youth Policy graduate certificate program, you’ll study issues across education policy, child policy, juvenile justice, and policy making. You’ll gain the knowledge you need to understand research about child and youth development; learn how research can be used to inform policy; and how to effectively network and communicate with policy makers to make change.
Dates & Deadlines
Spring & Fall 2025
Aug 15, 2024
Application Opens
Spring 2025 Semester
Dec 15, 2024
Application Deadline
Fall 2025 Semester
Jan 15, 2025
Deadline to Receive Priority Scholarship Consideration
Fall 2025 Semester
Aug 1, 2025
Application Closes
Career Outcomes
Students who complete Boston University’s graduate certificate in Child & Youth Policy are able to synthesize research and policy to impact outcomes for children and adolescents. Graduates are successful in professional roles in a variety of settings.
- State and federal government
- Child and youth advocacy organizations and nonprofits
- Doctoral programs in public policy, human development, education, or psychology
More Information about the Child & Youth Policy Graduate Certificate
Master’s Degree in Early Childhood
If you’re interested in pursuing a master’s degree, the Child & Youth Policy certificate can be used to satisfy some of the requirements for BU Wheelock’s master’s in Leadership, Policy & Advocacy for Early Childhood Well-Being.
Educational Leadership & Policy Studies
The Educational Leadership & Policy Studies program offers several options for graduate degree programs, including the master’s in Educational Policy Studies.
Graduate Admissions
Connect with BU Wheelock to learn more about the graduate certificate in Child & Youth Policy. Get information about deadlines and requirements, financial assistance, and more.