Master of Arts in Child, Youth & Family Studies at Institute of Technology Carlow

The Master of Arts in Child, Youth and Family Studies provides learners with a range of critical and analytical tools to enable them to manage and lead services that develop the potential of children, youth and families and envision new possibilities for better service provision in the sector. The programme is designed to provide the knowledge, skills and competencies required by the sector and to provide future leaders of Child, Youth and Family services in Ireland and abroad.

The programme aims to educate learners to high levels of contemporary and comparative theoretical awareness in fields central to services provision (transitions across the lifespan, cultural diversity, youth and families) and to create an atmosphere of rigorous academic enquiry and writing.

Learners will develop a deep and integrated knowledge of contemporary child, youth and family theory and practice, and the sector within which child, youth and family services operate.

Note: Please be aware that some of the modules on this programme are taught in the evening. If you wish to complete the programme as a full-time student, you must complete both the day and evening modules in one academic year.

What will I be able to do when I finish the programme?

Graduates may also adopt research and advisory roles in relation to the development and planning of such services. Graduates will be in a position to critically evaluate existing services and programmes and to visualise future possibilities for better service provision.

The course will meet the needs of professionals who are already working in the area of social care/work, early education, youth and family work and related areas. It will also serve to provide new graduates with a unique opportunity to gain a competititve edge prior to embarking on a career in these fields or in the field of academia.

What subjects will I study?

• Contemporary Issues in Childhood & Youth Studies
• Applied Psychology
• Perspectives on Family & Society
• Leadership, Strategy & Governance
• Research Methods & Dissertation
  
  Plus Two Electives (subject to availability):
• Youth Justice
• Child and Family Rights
• Addiction Studies
• Adult & Community Education

Study & Career Opportunities

Graduates of this course may find employment in some of the following areas:

• Community based organisations and projects whether voluntary or statutory
• National rights focused organisations and advisory groups
• Family support services
• Services catering for the care, education and advocacy of children and families in society

Graduates may also adopt research and advisory roles in relation to the development and planning of services. Graduates will be in a position to critically evaluate existing services and course and to visualise future possibilities for better service provision.