PSLP Secondary Education Certificate

High school juniors interested in going into a helping profession can explore a future in social work and other related careers through this no-cost yearlong training program. Students will have the opportunity to gain and practice skills, learn about the expansive field of social work and other related careers, and connect with other youth and adults during the monthly webinars and multi-day summer institute.

Cost

No cost

Yearlong program, summer institute, and materials, no fees.

Who it’s for

Secondary Education

Juniors in North Carolina Early College programs exploring social work and other related careers.

Time commitment

30–36 Hours

Monthly webinars plus a multi-day summer institute experience.

Social work students in a classroom learning session with their instructor
Eligibility

Is This Program for You?

This track is for high school juniors in North Carolina who want to explore social work and other related careers before college, especially students in Early College programs.

  • Must be a junior at a North Carolina high school or Early College (EC) program (for Cohort 1)
  • Must be a junior in high school in Fall 2026
  • Must be able to attend the required summer camp the 2nd week of June 2027
  • Must be able to attend the monthly meetings
  • Participation does not replace any required high school or Early College coursework
Career Readiness

What You’ll Explore

Through monthly webinars and a summer institute, you’ll learn what social workers do in public service settings across North Carolina, and whether this path fits your future goals.

  • What social work and other related careers are, and where practitioners work
  • Skills for helping others and navigating community resources
  • Connections with students, faculty, and mentors across NC
  • Introduction to public service careers before college
Program structure

What the Program Includes

The PSLP Secondary Education Certificate combines a multi-day summer institute with monthly learning so you can explore social work and other related careers without disrupting your school schedule.

  • 4-day in-person summer camp in Summer 2027
  • 30–36 hours of content across the program year
  • Monthly webinars and peer learning communities
  • Mix of virtual sessions and asynchronous activities
Three young people laughing together while working on laptops
Social work students smiling together in class
Why it matters

Why Participate?

PSLP is designed to help you explore social work and other related careers early, before you choose a college or major.

  • Certificate of Participation through the Social Work Coalition
  • Network with social work professionals, faculty, and students across NC
  • Connect with peers interested in social work and other related careers
  • Access to mentors in state agencies and community organizations

Key Dates and Timeline

Dates for applications, summer institute, monthly sessions, and closing event will be posted when finalized.

Application Timeline

Applications released: [DATE]Applications close: [DATE]Summer institute: 2nd week of June 2027Monthly webinars: [DATES]

Program Schedule

Program start: [DATE]Monthly sessions: [DATES]Closing event: [DATE]

Next steps

How To Apply

The application includes a short form, personal statement, parental consent, and references. Details on the application portal will be posted when applications open.

Close-up of hands filling out paperwork at a table

Questions?

Get in touch with the Secondary Education team at [email protected] before you apply.

Contact Us

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to participate?
No. Participation is offered at no cost.
Who runs PSLP?
PSLP is housed within the Office of Community Engagement and Outreach at the UNC School of Social Work, with coordinators and liaisons regionally located at coalition partner schools.
How much time will this take?
The program requires 30–36 hours of content over the course of the program year, plus attendance at specific in-person and virtual events.
Will this affect my regular high school or Early College classes?
PSLP is external to the NC school system and all activities will take place outside of school hours.
What if I can’t make every session?
Participants are expected to attend the required monthly meetings and the summer intensive. Please review the Key Dates section carefully before applying.
Who do I contact with questions?
Get in touch with the Secondary Education team at [email protected].