MRes Leadership and Strategy
The University of Greater Manchester offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgradu...
MA Community Development and Youth Studies
Bolton
INTAKE: January
Program Overview
The MA Community Development and Youth Studies program at the University of Greater Manchester provides a rigorous and in-depth exploration of the theories, principles, and practices underpinning community development and youth work. It aims to develop graduates who are equipped to understand the social, economic, and political contexts shaping communities and the lives of young people, and to effectively facilitate positive change. The program typically covers a range of topics including community development theory and practice, youth studies, social policy, research methods, and project management. It is designed to cater to both recent graduates seeking to enter these fields and experienced professionals looking to enhance their knowledge and skills for career advancement. The curriculum often incorporates a blend of lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical placements to provide a comprehensive learning experience.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA Community Development and Youth Studies program is carefully structured to provide a strong theoretical foundation alongside the development of practical and transferable skills. Core modules generally cover areas such as theories and practices of community development, contemporary issues in youth studies, social justice and equalities, research methodologies for social change, and policy analysis and advocacy. Students may also have opportunities to specialize through elective modules in areas such as youth mental health, community arts, or international development. A significant component of the program is often a dissertation or research project, allowing students to explore a specific area of interest in depth and develop their research and analytical abilities. Practical placements are often integrated to provide hands-on experience in community development or youth work settings.
Research Focus: The MA Community Development and Youth Studies program is delivered by faculty who are actively engaged in research within the fields of community development, youth studies, and related social science disciplines. This ensures that the curriculum is informed by current research findings and critical perspectives. The program emphasizes the importance of research in understanding social issues and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. Students are trained in relevant research methodologies and are encouraged to engage with research throughout the program, culminating in their dissertation or research project. Research areas within the program may include participatory action research, the impact of social policy on communities and young people, youth identity and culture, and innovative approaches to community engagement.
Industry Engagement: The University of Greater Manchester recognizes the importance of practical experience and strong links with the community development and youth work sectors. The MA program often incorporates significant industry engagement opportunities, such as guest lectures from practitioners, workshops led by professionals in the field, and supervised practical placements in relevant organizations. These placements provide students with valuable hands-on experience, allowing them to apply their theoretical learning in real-world settings and develop professional networks. The program aims to equip graduates with the practical skills and understanding of professional practice necessary for successful careers in these sectors.
Global Perspective: The MA Community Development and Youth Studies program often incorporates a global perspective by examining international approaches to community development and youth work, exploring the impact of globalization on communities and young people, and considering issues of international development and social justice. The curriculum may include case studies from different countries and encourage students to think critically about the transferability of models and practices across diverse cultural and socio-economic contexts. The diverse student body, including international students, can further enrich the learning environment by bringing different perspectives on community development and youth issues from around the world.
Location
Bolton
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 15950
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 79.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Greater Manchester offers a variety of scholarships to support international students in financing their education. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence and assist students in pursuing their studies in the UK.
Global Futures Scholarships: The university provides the Global Futures Scholarships, which offer financial support to international students. These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and master's students holding an offer for full-time study on campus in Manchester.
Equity and Merit Scholarships: The university offers Equity and Merit Scholarships to academically excellent international students. These scholarships are available to postgraduate taught students commencing their studies. The scholarships aim to support students who demonstrate strong academic performance and their chosen field of study.
Engineering the Future Scholarships: The School of Engineering at the University of Greater Manchester provides scholarship awards to academically excellent international students commencing their postgraduate taught studies. These scholarships aim to support students pursuing careers in engineering and related fields.
Graduates from the MA Community Development and Youth Studies program at the University of Greater Manchester acquire a specialized and highly relevant skillset for making a positive impact in communities and the lives of young people. Their in-depth understanding of social issues, policy, and effective intervention strategies opens doors to a variety of rewarding career paths.
Youth Worker: Graduates can work directly with young people in various settings such as youth centers, schools, and community organizations, providing support, guidance, and facilitating personal and social development.
Community Development Officer: Graduates can work with local authorities, voluntary organizations, and community groups to develop and implement initiatives that address local needs, promote social inclusion, and empower residents.
Social Policy Officer: Graduates can work in government or non-governmental organizations, analyzing social policies related to communities and young people, and advocating for policy changes to improve outcomes.
Project Manager (Community and Youth Initiatives): Graduates can lead and manage specific projects focused on community development or youth engagement, overseeing planning, implementation, and evaluation.
Advocacy Worker: Graduates can work for organizations that advocate for the rights and needs of specific communities or young people, raising awareness and campaigning for policy and practice changes.
Community Arts Worker: Graduates can use creative arts as a tool for community engagement and development, facilitating workshops and projects that promote social interaction and empowerment.
Youth Justice Worker: Graduates can work within the youth justice system, supporting young people who have been involved in crime and helping them to reintegrate into their communities.
Family Support Worker: Graduates can work with families facing challenges, providing support and linking them with relevant community resources to promote family well-being.
Research Officer (Social Issues): Graduates can work for research organizations or universities, conducting research on issues related to community development and youth studies to inform policy and practice.
International Development Worker: With a global perspective gained from the program, graduates can work for international organizations involved in community development and youth empowerment projects in developing countries.
