Mission: Year Up’s mission is to close the opportunity divide by providing urban young adults with the skills, experience, and support that will empower them to reach their potential through professional careers and higher education.
Year Up is a one-year intensive training program that combines technical and professional skills, paid apprenticeships and college credit. During the first six months, students learn marketable Desktop Support/IT Helpdesk and Investment Operations skills which enable students to succeed in both business and academic settings. After completing six months of training, students are placed in paid six-month long apprenticeships with leading local companies, applying their skills, gaining experience and broadening their industry contacts.
Our supportive environment builds confidence and helps students confront issues that could derail their achievements. Year Up balances high expectations with a high level of support. Our program provides students with staff advisors, mentors, and tutors. Each student earns an educational stipend during the intensive one-year program. A signed contract and feedback system guides professional behavior and ensures student accountability. While at Year Up, students can earn up to 18 college credits. During the apprenticeship and after graduation, Year Up’s Career and Alumni Services provide support relative to job placement, career development, higher education, and alumni network development. Graduates become members of Year Up’s Alumni Association, building a strong, professional network.
Year Up has numerous partnerships with high schools, community based organizations, apprenticeship companies, employers, and post-secondary institutions (including Cambridge College, which grants credit to Year Up students).
ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
An application, interview/assessment, recommendation, and transcript are required. Applicants must be 18-24, have a GED or High School diploma, be low income, and have work authorization. There are no specific grades or test score requirements. Applicants can be referred by any agency. Since students perform college-level work and earn college credit, Year Up has a limited ability to support students with special needs.
Year Up holds open houses on most Wednesdays at the Summer Street location from 2:00pm-4:00pm so that potential applicants can see the program first hand. Please call 617-542-1533 for more information.