UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS CHICAGO · UNITED STATES
Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Youth Development
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Youth Development program at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) is designed for individuals passionate about working with young people. This program focuses on understanding the complexities of youth development, particularly within urban contexts. It aims to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively support and empower youth. The curriculum encourages a critical examination of social, psychological, and educational factors influencing adolescent growth and well-being. Students in this program can choose between an Applied Strand or a Thesis Track. The Applied Strand focuses on practical application and program development, while the Thesis Track allows for in-depth research on a specific aspect of youth development. Both tracks emphasize the importance of community engagement and evidence-based practices. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in various youth-serving organizations, non-profits, and educational institutions.
Curriculum
The M.Ed. in Youth Development program requires a minimum of 32 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate. At least 9 hours must be at the 500 level (excluding independent study and thesis). A minimum of 24 hours must be earned as a degree candidate at UIC. Only 400- and 500-level courses are applicable to the degree. Students must achieve a grade of A, B, C, CR, or S in all courses counting towards the degree. The program offers two tracks: Applied Strand and Thesis Track.
- Year 1
- Developmental Theory CoreVaries
- Research and Methodology CoreVaries
- ElectivesVaries
- Year 2
- Culminating Experience (Applied Strand)EPSY 518, EPSY 528
- Thesis (Thesis Track)Varies
Careers
Graduates of the M.Ed. in Youth Development program are prepared for a variety of roles in organizations that serve young people. The program's focus on urban youth development equips them with the skills to address the specific challenges and opportunities within diverse communities.
- Youth Program Manager
- Community Organizer
- After-School Program Coordinator
- Non-profit Program Director
- Youth Advocate
- Educational Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the M.Ed. in Youth Development program?
- You need a Baccalaureate Degree, with coursework in psychology preferred. The minimum GPA requirement is 2.75/4.00 for the final 60 semester hours of undergraduate study, or 3.00/4.00 for all postbaccalaureate/graduate coursework.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- For TOEFL iBT taken on or after January 21, 2026, a score of 80 overall is required with minimums of 19 in Reading, 17 in Listening, 20 in Speaking, and 21 in Writing. For IELTS Academic, a 6.5 overall is needed with a minimum of 6.0 in each section.
- How is the M.Ed. in Youth Development program structured?
- The program requires a minimum of 32 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate. You can choose between an Applied Strand for practical application and program development or a Thesis Track for in-depth research.
- What are the career prospects after completing this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Youth Program Manager, Community Organizer, After-School Program Coordinator, Non-profit Program Director, Youth Advocate, and Educational Consultant.
- Where can I find detailed information on tuition and fees?
- Specific tuition and fee amounts are not listed for this program. International students should consult the UIC Admissions website and the Graduate Tuition and Fees page for detailed information, as fees are subject to change.
- What materials are needed for the application?
- You will need to submit transcripts from all previous institutions, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement detailing your experience with youth and your professional goals. English proficiency test scores are also required if applicable.
Entry requirements
Baccalaureate DegreeNo specific field required, but coursework in psychology is preferred.
Grade Point AverageMinimum of 2.75/4.00 for the final 60 semester hours of undergraduate study. Minimum of 3.00/4.00 for all postbaccalaureate or graduate coursework combined.
TOEFL iBT (taken on or after Jan 21, 2026)80 overall, with minimums of 19 (Reading), 17 (Listening), 20 (Speaking), 21 (Writing).
TOEFL iBT (taken prior to Jan 21, 2026)80 overall, with minimums of 19 (Reading), 17 (Listening), 20 (Speaking), 21 (Writing).
IELTS Academic6.5 overall, with minimums of 6.0 in each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).
PTE Academic54 overall, with minimums of 51 (Reading), 47 (Listening), 53 (Speaking), 56 (Writing).
Official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions must be submitted. Three letters of recommendation and a personal statement addressing relevant experience and goals are also required.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition and fee information for graduate programs can be found on the Graduate Tuition and Fees page. Specific amounts are not listed for this program.
Tuition (home)Tuition and fee information for graduate programs can be found on the Graduate Tuition and Fees page. Specific amounts are not listed for this program.
LivingEstimated Cost of Attendance calculator available on the UIC website.
Fees are subject to change. International students should consult the UIC Admissions website for detailed information on tuition and fees.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather transcripts from all previous institutions, three letters of recommendation, and prepare your personal statement.
2. Submit TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate coursework must be sent to the Graduate College.
3. Write Personal StatementYour personal statement should detail your experience working with youth, particularly in urban settings, and outline your professional and academic goals.
4. Complete Online ApplicationFill out the online application form for graduate admissions through the UIC Graduate College portal.
5. Submit Test ScoresIf required, ensure your official TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores are sent to UIC.
6. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
7. Await Admission DecisionThe Graduate College and the program faculty will review your application. Admission decisions are typically communicated via email.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the M.Ed. in Youth Development program?
+
You need a Baccalaureate Degree, with coursework in psychology preferred. The minimum GPA requirement is 2.75/4.00 for the final 60 semester hours of undergraduate study, or 3.00/4.00 for all postbaccalaureate/graduate coursework.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
For TOEFL iBT taken on or after January 21, 2026, a score of 80 overall is required with minimums of 19 in Reading, 17 in Listening, 20 in Speaking, and 21 in Writing. For IELTS Academic, a 6.5 overall is needed with a minimum of 6.0 in each section.
How is the M.Ed. in Youth Development program structured?
+
The program requires a minimum of 32 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate. You can choose between an Applied Strand for practical application and program development or a Thesis Track for in-depth research.
What are the career prospects after completing this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Youth Program Manager, Community Organizer, After-School Program Coordinator, Non-profit Program Director, Youth Advocate, and Educational Consultant.
Where can I find detailed information on tuition and fees?
+
Specific tuition and fee amounts are not listed for this program. International students should consult the UIC Admissions website and the Graduate Tuition and Fees page for detailed information, as fees are subject to change.
What materials are needed for the application?
+
You will need to submit transcripts from all previous institutions, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement detailing your experience with youth and your professional goals. English proficiency test scores are also required if applicable.