The Undergraduate Certificate in Community Leadership provides students with the skills to help them participate effectively in the political process on behalf of communities. The curriculum of the Certificate in Community Leadership draws on a variety of academic disciplines to provide students with the knowledge and experience needed to address issues facing urban residents through community level work.

Students gain the educational and professional credentials needed to pursue careers in public service, specifically in local nonprofits, community advocacy organizations, government agencies, and legislative offices. Using New York City and its diverse municipalities as the classroom, students learn how communities are organized, how nonprofits serve constituents, and how community engagement can result in social progress and political power. Students gain a deeper awareness of the importance of lived experience in the creation of urban policy and understand what factors influence how communities are organized.

Career & Academic Advancement

Graduates of the program may pursue entry and mid-level positions at community-based nonprofits and community-level public sector work related to community organizing, equity, housing, economic development, climate change adaptation and resilience, political participation, and immigrant rights. In addition, students who complete the certificate program can apply the credits earned towards the BA in Urban and Community Studies program we offer. These credits may also be applied to other college degree programs within CUNY. Students should contact their college to enquire about the transfer process.

Admissions Criteria

Candidates for admission to undergraduate level certificate programs must possess a high school diploma or a High School Equivalency (HSE) diploma from New York State (also known as TASC or GED). Applicants are also required to write a personal statement.

Department Contact

Dr. Steven London
Department Chair

Marie Romani
Administrative Specialist
marie.romani@slu.cuny.edu
(646) 313 – 8480

Office Hours
Mon. – Thur.: 10:00am – 6:00pm
Fri.: 9:00am – 5:00pm

Internships
Community Semester and AmeriCorps SLU Fellowship – unique internship programs

Urban Academy
Dual acceptance opportunity for community college students