2026 VCU Advanced Certificate in Youth Development Management

The VCU Advanced Certificate in Youth Development Management provides essential training in workforce development and positive youth engagement. Designed for professionals across a range of sectors—including early childhood education, out-of-school time (OST) programs, school and community-based initiatives, healthcare settings, and non-traditional adult education—this certificate equips participants with the skills needed to thrive as caregivers, mentors, educators, healthcare providers, youth program leaders, and managers. Rooted in the unique needs of youth in the Richmond region, the program promotes best practices for supporting young people and strengthening community engagement across Virginia.

The VCU Advanced Certificate in Youth Development Management is an ideal program for individuals committed to making a significant impact in the field of youth development and health. Through its focused curriculum and experiential learning opportunities, students will emerge as leaders equipped to face the challenges and opportunities in the evolving landscape of youth lives.

For more information about the program, including the new Statewide Hybrid Cohort, please visit https://mfyc.vcu.edu/rydn/ydncertificate/

[FULL PAYMENT] Richmond (MFYC) Cohort
This cohort begins in August 2026. Cohort members are required to meet in person at VCU weekly.
$1,499.00
[FULL PAYMENT] Hybrid (Statewide) Cohort
This cohort begins in June 2026. Open and accessible to statewide partners and professionals.
$3,149.00
[PARTIAL PAYMENT] Richmond (MFYC) Cohort
Partial payment of $500 is one of three payments and are collected at the start of each semester, totaling $1,500. This cohort begins in August 2026. Cohort members are required to meet in person at VCU weekly.
$500.00
[SCHOLARSHIP PARTIAL PAYMENT] Richmond (MFYC) Cohort
Partial payment of $250 is one of three payments and are collected at the start of each semester, totaling $750. This cohort begins in August 2026. Cohort members are required to meet in person at VCU weekly.
$250.00

Wall

Vaughn Garland wrote on August 20th, 2026

Hi Crystal, we started the program today, Thursday, August 20th and will meet weekly on Thursdays throughout the year.  We are happy to make arrangements for you to join us starting next week if you wish to be in the certificate program.  Please email me at garlandvw@VCU.EDU with any questions.
With Kindness,
Vaughn

crystal Bennett-Girdy wrote on August 20th, 2026

I am interested in registering for this cohort but cannot locate any information on the start date. Does anyone what day class starts?