The Family Studies and Human Services department offers a Master of Science degree in Family Studies and Human Services with a specialization in youth development. The collaborative, multi-institutional master’s degree program in Youth Development, the graduate certificate program in Youth Development Administration, and the graduate certificate program in Youth Development Professional draw on the expertise of graduate faculty and graduate courses from four land-grant universities—Colorado State University, Kansas State University, Michigan State University, and the University of Nebraska. Faculty at these institutions share knowledge and expertise in youth development, delivering most instruction over the Internet. All institutions are members of the Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance and have a history of success in distance education.

Master’s Degree Program Requirements

The graduate program consists of 36 credit hours, including 10 required courses equaling 28 credit hours and 8 elective hours. The courses are offered on a rotating basis, with all courses offered at least once every other year (i.e., fall, spring, and summer).

The eight elective hours will consist of a practicum (1-3 credits), independent study (1-3 credits), or coursework. Practicum and independent study project hours will be coordinated with the major professor.

Core courses offered within the program include nine courses (3 credit hours each) and a professional development seminar (1 credit hour):

• Foundations of Youth Development (professional development seminar)
• Community Youth Development
• Adolescents and Their Families
• Program Design, Evaluation, and Implementation
• Topics in Contemporary Youth Issues
• Youth Professionals as Consumers of Research
• Youth Policy
• Administration and Program Management
• Youth in Cultural Contexts
• Youth Development

See Course Schedule and Descriptions.