Child and Youth Studies (MA)

Master of Arts in Child and Youth Studies

Program Website: Child and Youth Studies

Faculty and Administration

For a listing of program faculty and administrative contacts, please visit the program directory.

Program Description

The MA program offers a unique multidisciplinary approach to the study of children and youth through required foundation courses, electives and a research-based thesis. The program may be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. For full-time students, it is normally a six term or two-year program.

There are two required foundation courses:

1. CHYS 5P00  (encompassing the sociology, anthropology and political economy of childhood and youth); and,
2. CHYS 5P10  (drawing upon theoretical and applied perspectives in developmental psychology).

Students are also required to complete a course in research methods for Child and Youth Studies.

This program is part of a growing movement for multidisciplinary perspectives in Child and Youth Studies and students are encouraged and expected to show evidence of integration across disciplines. The program provides theoretical foundation for the study of childhood and youth and the application of social science research methods through the completion of a research-based thesis. The program will also provide advanced learning opportunities for students intending to continue their education and professionals who currently work in research or service settings. We anticipate that some graduates will pursue further study at the doctoral level while others may pursue a wide variety of occupations related to children and youth.

Facilities

The department has a quiet graduate student office equipped with computers and printers intended to be used for course work, reading and writing. There are a limited number of lockers for students. The department also has video equipment, meeting room, lounge, and faculty labs that may be made available to graduate students.

Admission Requirements

Successful completion of a four-year Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent, in a relevant social sciences discipline with an average of not less than 75%. Applicants will be expected to have completed an undergraduate statistics course as well as a research methods course. Students with an Honours Bachelor’s degree in a non-related discipline who have demonstrated, through documented work-related experience, an interest in pursuing research with children and youth, may be considered. Agreement from a faculty member to supervise the student is also required for admission to the program.

In addition to the submission of transcripts, applicants will provide:

1. a statement outlining research interests,
2. an indication of research experience,
3. a ranking of preferred faculty member(s) supervisors and how this person is best suited to your research interests,
4. a recent example of written work,
5. two references, and,
6. current curriculum vitae.

The Graduate Admissions Committee will review all applications and recommend admission for a limited number of suitable candidates.

Part-time study is available.