Juvenile Justice Youth Development Certificate Program

Offered by the Department of Psychology and the School of Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sociology at Fort Hays State University, the Certificate in Juvenile Justice Youth Development provides specialized academic preparation in youth development, juvenile justice, and the sociocultural factors that influence adolescent behavior.

Students complete coursework that may include topics such as Behavioral Addictions, Drugs and Behavior, Child Developmental Psychology, and Juvenile Justice. Through this interdisciplinary curriculum, students gain a broad understanding of the challenges faced by youth and the systems designed to support them.

This certificate equips individuals with practical knowledge and skills applicable in a variety of youth-centered environments, including community organizations, educational settings, and juvenile justice agencies.

Why pursue a Certificate in Juvenile Justice Youth Development at FHSU?

The Certificate in Juvenile Justice Youth Development at FHSU offers a distinctive interdisciplinary focus, integrating the fields of psychology and criminal justice to prepare individuals to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people.

With an emphasis on practical, real-world application, the certificate equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for direct involvement in community organizations, educational settings, and the juvenile justice system. Faculty members bring extensive professional experience and provide expert instruction informed by active research and advocacy in youth development and juvenile justice.

Who is this program for?

The certificate is designed for undergraduate students seeking to expand their knowledge and skills in youth-related areas, particularly those connected to the juvenile justice system.

Students in psychology, criminal justice, or social work
Education majors focusing on student well-being and support
Those interested in working with at-risk youth in community settings
Individuals passionate about social justice and advocacy for young people
Students pursuing careers in counseling, youth services, or nonprofit management

Which courses will you take?

Courses	Credit Hours
PSY 460 Behavioral Addictions OR PSY 355 Drugs & Behavior	3
PSY 400 Child & Developmental Psychology OR PSY 415 Adolescence	3
CRJ 327 Juvenile Justice	3
CRJ 340 Gender, Race, & Inequality OR CRJ 365 Women & Crime	3
Total Credit Hours Needed	12 Credit Hours

No grade lower than a “C” is acceptable for the classes taken to complete the certificate
PSY100 is a pre-requisite for all psych courses

Interested in this Certificate?

Watch this short video (9 minutes) featuring faculty members from our department. They’ll walk you through the certificates we offer and how they can benefit you:

Certificate Overview Video

If you're a current FHSU student, follow these steps to add a certificate to your program of study or request your printed certificate once you've completed the requirements.

1. Intent to Complete a Certificate - Form Link

Use this form to officially add a certificate to your advisory program in Workday.

2. Completion of a Certificate - Form Link

Once you've successfully completed all required coursework, submit this form to receive your printed certificate. Note: All students must submit the completion form to receive a printed certificate—even if all requirements have been met.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this certificate qualify as a degree in psychology or criminal justice?

This certificate does not qualify as a degree in psychology or criminal justice. It is an advisory certificate designed to complement a student’s pursuit of a B.A. or B.S. in Psychology or Criminal Justice. Completion of the certificate alone does not meet the credentialing or licensure requirements for careers in juvenile justice or mental health that require a bachelor’s or master’s degree. To maximize its professional value, students are encouraged to complete the certificate alongside a full bachelor’s degree to be eligible for advanced training and career opportunities.

What kind of support is provided for career preparation?

FHSU offers career counseling, resume workshops, and networking opportunities to help students enter the field. Faculty and advisors provide personalized guidance to support each student's unique career goals.

Can students complete the Certificate in Juvenile Justice Youth Development entirely online?

Yes, this certificate is available online, making it accessible to students regardless of location. On-campus options are also available for those who prefer an in-person experience.

Can students apply this certificate toward a major in psychology or criminal justice?

Yes, the Certificate in Juvenile Justice Youth Development complements majors in psychology, criminal justice, and related fields, adding specialized knowledge that enhances career prospects in youth services and justice systems.

We're Here to Help!

For any other questions, please contact the Department of Psychology at psecreta@fhsu.edu or call us at 785-628-4405.

This is an FHSU advisory certificate. The certificates are designed by FHSU faculty to provide students a guide to choosing courses that introduce and develop a subject knowledge and/or skills. These certificates may be used to select a focus within a major, to develop additional knowledge and skills to complement a major, or to pursuing a topic of interest with open elective hours.

Courses taken as part of an advisory certificate are listed on the student's transcript, however the advisory certificate is not listed on the transcript. Many FHSU departments provide a completion certificate that students may use to show they completed the advised coursework, and talk about what it added to their degree. Non-degree students may complete the classes outlined in an advisory certificate and receive a completion certificate if offered by the department, however they are not enrolled in a degree plan or eligible for student aid.