What are the MiYDC Certificate & MiYDC Credential?
A school-age youth development professional plays a vital role in helping young people:
- Advance their thinking, learning, and understanding of themselves and the world
- Master new skills and build confidence
- Develop meaningful relationships with peers and adults
- Grow in independence and responsibility
The Michigan Youth Development Certificate (MiYDC) and MiYDC Credential programs support high-quality youth programs by:
- Establishing professional standards for youth development professionals
- Providing a framework for training and professional growth
- Supporting evaluation and continuous improvement in youth-serving programs
- Promoting quality experiences for school-age youth across Michigan
By earning a MiYDC or MiYDC Certificate, youth development professionals demonstrate their commitment to excellence, professional growth, and providing high-quality experiences that help young people thrive.
Did you know that many afterschool professionals already qualify for their Michigan Youth Development Credential (MiYDC) and Certificate?
You’re one step away from a more advanced career in youth development!
If you meet the requirements below you may be able to apply now for your certificate simply by providing documentation.
How to Qualify for your Michigan AfterSchool MiYDC Certificate
- Be at least 17 years old.
- High school diploma or equivalent.*
- Evidence of current CPR/1st aid certification and blood borne pathogens training.
- Complete 40 hours of training within the past 3 years with at least 2 in each 10 of the NAA Core Knowledge, Skills, & Competencies.
- Complete 240 hours of work/volunteer experience with school-age youth in OST programs in the last five years.
- Must be an MAA member.
Certificates are valid for three years from date of issuance.
*or be a 17 year old that has satisfactorily completed at least one year of apprenticeship in a recognized child care apprenticeship program sponsored by the US Department of Labor.
How to Qualify for your MiYDC Credential
- Must be age 18 or older.
- Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent.*
- Current CPR/1st aid certification and blood borne pathogens training (cannot be included in training hours).
- Complete and document 120 hours of training within the past 5 years with at least 10 hours in each of the ten content areas identified in the NAA Core Knowledge, Skills, & Competencies.
- Complete 480 hours of work/volunteer experience with school-age youth in out-of-school time programs within the past 5 years
- Three (3) hours of program observation must be completed and documented.
- Must be an MAA Member.
*or be an 18 year old that has satisfactorily completed at least one year of apprenticeship in a recognized child care apprenticeship program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor.
If you would like more information, please check out our Frequently Asked Questions.