- Fall 2026 Priority Deadline: April 9, 2026
- Fall 2026 Regular Deadline: May 21, 2026
Please note there is no application fee for graduate applications submitted by the Priority Deadline.
The MA in Youth Studies degree, the first program of its kind in New York, equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to design, run, research, and work in youth settings. This degree benefits those who work in various settings (after-schools, community centers, college and career, child welfare, advocacy, arts/sports/religious youth development) with youth ages 12-24. Through online synchronous coursework, the program provides the flexibility that people need with strong connections to professors and colleagues.
The program trains students in a participatory approach to program planning, research and evaluation through which students are taught to incorporate young people in shaping the programs, institutions, and policies that impact their lives. This MA promotes youth development principles and practices with a strong emphasis on youth-adult partnerships as well as a commitment to social justice and equity.
Program Highlights:
- Leadership positions at youth-serving organizations and/or city agencies (middle/upper management).
- Capacity building
- Teaching in higher education
- Consultancy
- Research/evaluation
- Entrepreneurial Youth Development
- Development/grant writing
- Potential to earn up to 15 credits/5 courses to be applied towards eligible Doctoral Programs
- Approved Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE) Sponsor
Additionally, the program applies a participatory approach through which students are taught to incorporate young people in shaping the programs, institutions, and policies that impact their lives. This MA promotes youth development principles and practices with a strong emphasis on and commitment to social justice and equity.
As a student in this program, you will also:
- Examine how age, gender, gender identity, sexuality, race, class, immigration status, (dis)ability, and region impact youth development
- Analyze current youth policies, opportunities, and best practices related to the field
- Apply principles and practices in program management, facilitation, and evaluation
- Engage multiple stakeholders and partners in order to ensure the positive development of youth, staff, and communities
Mode of Learning
The Youth Studies program is excited to introduce a new online asynchronous pathway, providing students with the opportunity to attain their degree entirely online, starting with incoming students in the Fall 2024 semester. Furthermore, we are committed to maintaining our online synchronous option, catering to students who prefer real-time virtual classroom interactions with their professors and peers.
Research Labs
For students interested in doing their doctorates in psychology, education or related fields, we have hands-on research opportunities to develop skills by becoming a co-researcher in one of our Socially Engaged Participatory Research Labs!
Scholarship Opportunities
Upcoming Events for Master of Arts in Youth Studies
Academic Director, Youth Studies
Meet our Faculty
Admissions Criteria
Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Applicants are required to write a personal statement, upload a resume, and provide a letter of recommendation. Letters of recommendation may be submitted before or after submitting an application. An individual interview may be necessary if an applicant meets most but not all requirements.
Application Deadlines
- Fall 2026 Priority Deadline: April 9, 2026
- Fall 2026 Regular Deadline: May 21, 2026
