The Civil Service Pathways Fellowship (CSPF) is a two-year program created by the New York City Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS). It is designed to provide recent graduates of the City University of New York (CUNY) with a direct pipeline from college into meaningful civil service careers.
This fellowship offers full-time employment, competitive salaries, benefits, and professional development opportunities that prepare fellows for long-term success in public service.
Program Overview
- Duration: Two years
- Target Audience: CUNY graduates (Bachelor’s degree required by May 2026)
- Employment Type: Full-time, salaried positions with benefits
- Goal: To create a pathway from higher education into civil service careers across New York City
The fellowship is structured to place selected candidates into high-demand positions across city agencies. Fellows gain hands-on experience while contributing to the city’s operations and services.
Career Tracks
Fellows are hired into one of six professional tracks. Each track offers specialized opportunities aligned with the city’s workforce needs:
- Policy and Program Analysis – Salary: $48,956
- Procurement and Finance – Salary: $48,956
- Project Management – Salary: $48,956
- Creative Services and Digital Media – Salary: $48,956
- Information Technology and Data Analysis – Salary: $53,862
- Architecture and Engineering – Salary: $53,862
These tracks allow fellows to match their academic background and career interests with practical roles that directly impact New York City’s governance and development.
Professional Development
A key feature of CSPF is its professional development component. Fellows receive training and mentorship that prepares them to take a civil service exam after completing their first year.
This ensures that participants not only gain valuable work experience but also secure eligibility for long-term civil service positions.
Benefits of the Fellowship
The Civil Service Pathways Fellowship provides a range of benefits that make it an attractive opportunity for graduates:
- Competitive Salary aligned with entry-level civil service positions
- Health and retirement benefits comparable to other city employees
- Professional training and mentorship to build long-term career skills
- Direct pathway to civil service exams after one year
- Networking opportunities with city leaders and professionals
- Contribution to public service by working on projects that improve life in New York City
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the fellowship, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree from CUNY by May 2026
- Demonstrate eligibility to work in the United States
- Reside within the five boroughs of New York City
These requirements ensure that the fellowship remains accessible to local graduates who are committed to serving their communities.
Application Process
- Application Period: Currently open for June 2026 cohort
- Deadline: Friday, February 13, 2026
- How to Apply: Submit your application through the official DCAS portal
Applicants are encouraged to prepare early, ensuring that all required documents and eligibility criteria are met before the deadline.
Information Sessions
To help prospective applicants understand the fellowship, DCAS offers:
- Virtual CityTalks
- Information sessions
These sessions provide insights into the program, application tips, and opportunities to ask questions directly to program coordinators.
Why Choose CSPF?
The Civil Service Pathways Fellowship is more than just a job—it is a career-launching opportunity. By participating, fellows:
- Gain real-world experience in city government
- Build a professional network within NYC agencies
- Secure a stable career path through civil service exams
- Contribute to projects that impact millions of residents
For graduates passionate about public service, CSPF offers a structured, supportive, and rewarding entry point into government work. Apply now.
