Master in Youth Development

At University of Illinois at Chicago, tuition fees are 25,990 USD per year; applications for the Aug 2027 intake are due by Nov 1, 2026.

The Master in Youth Development at University of Illinois at Chicago is a 2-year degree for students who want to help young people grow and thrive. It prepares students to work with youth in various settings.

The curriculum includes subjects like child development, program management, and community engagement. Students learn to design programs, work with families, and advocate for youth.

Graduates can work as Youth Program Directors, Community Outreach Coordinators, Child Life Specialists, Family Support Workers, or Adolescent Counselors. They can work for organizations that support youth development, such as schools, community centers, or social service agencies.

The University of Illinois at Chicago places students at the center of a dynamic urban research university with deep ties to Chicago's cultural and professional landscape. UIC serves a diverse student body across 15 colleges and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Its location provides direct access to internships, industry partnerships and community engagement projects that enhance classroom learning with practical experience.

Research and innovation are core strengths at UIC, with faculty and students collaborating on initiatives in healthcare, technology, urban policy and more. Students can engage in hands-on research alongside experienced mentors and contribute to projects that have local and global impact. The university's commitment to inclusion creates a multicultural learning environment where perspectives from more than 130 countries enrich academic and campus life.

Living and studying at UIC offers the advantages of an affordable urban campus with proximity to major employers, hospitals and cultural institutions. Support services for international students, active student organizations and community outreach programs help newcomers settle in and build professional networks. For students seeking a rigorous education tied to real-world outcomes in a vibrant city, UIC provides a pathway to both academic growth and career readiness.