University of Galway

Overview

The MA in Child, Youth and Community at the University of Galway is a Level 9 programme designed for individuals involved in or connected to the child, youth, and community sectors. This course enhances your skills in planning, delivering, and evaluating rights-based social interventions through a flexible blended learning format, allowing for a rich learning experience tailored to your needs.

What you'll study

This one-year full-time MA, a two-year part-time option, or a one-year full-time Postgraduate Diploma, features a blend of on-campus teaching and remote learning. Each teaching semester spans 12 weeks, incorporating five weeks of on-campus classes followed by seven weeks of online support. Core modules include:

• Programme Planning and Evaluation
• Human Rights and Social Justice
• Research Workshop
• Community Development and Organising
• Gender, Sexuality and Global Health

Assessment methods focus on applied learning, particularly in planning, monitoring, and evaluating social interventions, with evaluations based on written assignments and project work.

Entry requirements

To apply, candidates should possess an NQAI Level 8 degree (or equivalent) with Second Class Honours (2:1) in fields such as child, youth and family studies, sociology, psychology, or related disciplines. Applicants who do not meet these formal academic qualifications may still be considered under the University’s Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL) Policy.

English language proficiency is required, with minimum scores typically set at:

• IELTS: 6.5 (overall)
• TOEFL iBT: 88 (total)
• PTE Academic: 63 (overall)

Commonly required documents include proof of prior degrees, academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae (CV), English language test results (if applicable), and identification documents.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in Child, Youth and Community programme will be well-equipped to pursue various career paths within the child and youth services, community development, and social justice sectors. The skills acquired through this course will enable you to make meaningful contributions to society, advocating for and implementing effective social interventions that promote the well-being of children and communities.