Overview

The Youth Development Leadership programme at the University of Minnesota provides a comprehensive foundation for individuals dedicated to improving the lives of young people. This advanced degree integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application to foster effective leadership within diverse community settings. Students engage with contemporary research to address the evolving challenges faced by youth today.

The curriculum is designed to enhance the professional capacity of those working in non-profit organisations, government agencies, and educational institutions. By focusing on social justice and community engagement, the course ensures that graduates are equipped to implement evidence-based strategies. The learning environment encourages critical reflection on current practices in the field of youth work.

Why Youth Development Leadership at the University of Minnesota?

Studying at this institution offers access to the renowned School of Social Work, which is recognised for its commitment to social advocacy and research excellence. The university provides a collaborative atmosphere where students benefit from interdisciplinary expertise in families, children, and mental health. Facilities such as the Center for Advanced Studies in Child Welfare offer unique resources for academic growth.

The programme stands out for its strong connection to the local community and its focus on real-world impact. Students are supported by a faculty of experienced practitioners and researchers who are leaders in the field of youth studies. This environment ensures that learners gain both the academic rigour and the practical skills necessary to lead complex social service systems.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 16776 per semester
National fee: USD 16776 per semester
Local fee: USD 10632 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Youth Development Leadership
Social Work Practice with Families
Child Welfare Systems
Community Engagement Strategies
Social Policy and Advocacy
Research Methods in Youth Studies

Careers with Youth Development Leadership

Graduates of this programme are prepared for senior roles within various sectors dedicated to youth and community services. Common career paths include directing youth programmes, managing non-profit organisations, and leading social policy initiatives. The skills acquired allow professionals to transition into roles such as programme coordinators, community organisers, and youth advocates.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for those seeking to influence public policy or work within governmental departments focused on child and adolescent welfare. Employers value the advanced leadership training and the deep understanding of youth development principles that graduates bring to their organisations. This qualification serves as a significant catalyst for career advancement in the social services sector.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Ways of Knowing in Youth Development Leadership: Using Research and Evlauation to Support Community

Everyday Lives of Youth

Experiential Learning: Pedagogy for Community and Classroom

Organizational Approaches to Youth Development

Community: Context for Youth Development Leadership

Seminar in Youth Development Leadership

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-03 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-15 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Minneapolis, United States

Disciplines

Childhood Studies Leadership View 821 other Masters in Leadership in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended (including the University of Minnesota): applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited US institution of higher education

Applicants are not required to take the GRE exam, but you may submit current scores if available

If you are an international student and English is not your native language, submit TOEFL, MELAB, or IELTS scores

Two letters of recommendation

Description of research or work experience: A personal statement describing your career goals and rationale for interest in the program (limit of 2 pages). Applicants must have at least two years working with youth

Extenuating circumstances statement (if needed)

The application fee is $75 ($95 for international applicants), which must be paid online with a credit card

Current resume or CV

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33552 USD / year

≈ 33552 USD / year
Out-of-State

33552 USD / year

≈ 33552 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

21264 USD / year

≈ 21264 USD / year

Living costs

Minneapolis

United States

1130 - 2045 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Youth Development Leadership.

Available Scholarships

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On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Minneapolis

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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