MA Child, Youth and Community in Galway Ireland | University of Galway

The MA/PDip in Child, Youth and Community Studies caters to professionals currently employed in or those passionate about entering the community, voluntary, or public sectors. Created by the UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre within the School of Political Science and Sociology, this program stems from the Centre's foundational approach in Applied Social Science and its vibrant research initiatives examining effective strategies in real-world policy and practice concerning children, youth, and their communities.
The program aims to:
Arm students with both theoretical foundations and hands-on abilities in program development, execution, oversight, and research assessment, Cultivate students' ability to create and implement culturally aware, human rights-centered programs and services,
Encourage students to critically investigate emerging research areas and the application of research findings in practical settings,
Empower students to grow as leaders in this domain, Strengthen students' capabilities in creative problem-solving and effective communication,
Offer practical work experience and professional networking prospects for participants.
Career Prospects
This program targets professionals already engaged in community, voluntary, or related fields, as well as individuals with specialized knowledge about children, youth, and communities who seek an advanced Level 9 qualification to enhance their credentials and advance into leadership positions.
The MA equips students with highly sought-after competencies. It addresses the demands of a grant-reliant industry while fulfilling increasing national and international requirements for rights-based methodologies and rigorous evidence to evaluate the effectiveness of social programs.