Youth Development

Transform your life and the lives of youth

Get to your next career milestone. With over 73 million adolescents across the United States, now is the time to take strides in your career of making a meaningful impact on the lives of young people. Iowa State University’s online youth development program offers a forward-thinking, evidence-based approach that goes beyond addressing risk behaviors. You’ll learn to engage youth effectively within their communities, schools, and organizations, focusing on their strengths and leveraging best practices to foster positive outcomes.

Build lasting change that benefits both the youth that you work with and your own career. Take the next step in shaping a brighter future—both for the young people you inspire and for your professional growth.

Career paths

Youth development professionals with a master’s degree can work in various positions and settings, often with higher salary ranges.

Job titles

Child and youth advocate
Community health advocate
Social and community service manager
Recreation services specialist
Youth outreach specialist

Organizations

National organizations such as: Boys and Girls Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boy/Girl Scouts, YMCA
Sports and athletics
Extension and outreach services and programs like 4-H and Clover Kids
City/state youth programs
After-school and summer youth programs
Religious-based youth programs
Programs for military youth

You know where you’re headed next. Join the program designed to take you there.

Scholarship Details

Currently, the College of Health and Human Sciences is offering up to $1,800* in scholarship funding for students who enroll in the 2024-2025 academic year. Following admission to the program, students are eligible for a $600 scholarship. As students progress through the program, they may apply for scholarships at the midpoint (12-18 credit) and final (24-30) credits.

*Restrictions may apply to ISU employees

From the basketball court to the virtual classroom: a unique journey

In an era when professional athletes often prioritize endorsements and fame, Darrell Bowie chose to focus on a unique path. Splitting his time between slam dunks and studies, Bowie’s dedication to youth and community development is noteworthy. He is leaving a lasting impact on and off the court.

Collaborative Advantage of IDEA

Achieve your personal and professional goals through convenient, flexible, high-quality coursework you can complete anytime, anywhere. As a student in Iowa State University’s Youth Development Master’s program, you will learn from expert faculty who bring real-life experience to the coursework and are committed to helping you transition your learning beyond the online classroom into your career.

The Youth Development Master’s program is part of a consortium of universities connected through IDEA. While Iowa State University is your home university where you will apply, register for courses and receive your diploma, you’ll benefit from the diverse perspectives and unique strengths brought by classmates and expert faculty at partner universities.

Learn more about the IDEA program at Iowa State.

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
Academic Records/Transcripts
Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
Proof of English Proficiency

For specific program requirements and application process, visit the Graduate College website.

Credits

Total: 30 credits

The Course Planner provides a list of courses and shows when they are traditionally offered.

Non-degree credits
If you are interested in taking courses as a non-degree student, please start by applying as a non-degree student through the Admissions Office and contact idea@iastate.edu to schedule your courses once your application has been approved.

Tuition

As a member of IDEA, all students pay universal tuition. For more information, visit the IDEA website.

Youth Development – Master’s