Program Overview

Introduction to the MA Youth Work Leadership and Practice

The MA Youth Work Leadership and Practice is a postgraduate course designed for individuals who wish to pursue a career in youth work or those already working in the field who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject. This course provides students with the knowledge, skills, and understanding required to become effective practitioners and leaders within the youth work field and associated sectors.

Course Overview

The course is approved and endorsed by the National Youth Agency and is mapped to the National Occupational Standards for Youth Work (2019). Successful achievement of the Supervised Practice (JNC-endorsed pathway) confers professionally qualified status for Youth Workers in England. The course explores a range of social, educational, and informal education perspectives and is ideal for those interested in the study of young people, particularly those who wish to pursue a career within the youth work sector.

Entry Requirements

• An undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK undergraduate honours degree (normally a 2.2 or above)
• Additional requirements for UK students:
  • Applicants with non-standard entry qualifications will be considered on an individual basis but will be required to demonstrate how their experiences and knowledge would enable them to study this course at Masters level in their Personal Statement.
  • No references are required when applying for this course.
• Additional requirements for international students:
  • An undergraduate degree equivalent to a UK undergraduate honours degree (normally a 2.2 or above)
  • English language requirements: See the English language requirements page for requirements for the subject and information on alternative tests and Pre-sessional English.

Course Structure

The course has two routes:

Work-Based Practice (non-endorsed pathway)

This pathway enables the critical reflection of practice incorporating related module themes. It allows students to apply sociological thinking to real-world issues and problems in relation to the practice context. Students who successfully complete 180 credits on this pathway will graduate with the MA Leadership and Practice with Young People.

Supervised Practice (JNC-endorsed pathway)

This pathway requires a minimum of 400 hours of professional practice placement. Students' practice will be observed and assessed against the Youth Work National Occupational Standards or 'NOS' (2019). On completion of the endorsed route, students will be eligible to apply for Youth Work roles nationally with JNC professionally qualified status. Students who successfully complete 180 credits on this pathway will graduate with the MA Youth Work Leadership and Practice (JNC).

Module Information

The course includes the following core modules:

• Self, Identities within Communities of Practice
• Critical Issues in Contemporary Society
• Work-Based Learning Pedagogy
• Leadership and Management in Practice
• Research Project/Dissertation

Teaching and Assessment

The course is taught by an enthusiastic and supportive teaching team who are highly accomplished and experienced in the youth sector. The team includes:

• Dr. Frances Howard, Associate Professor of Youth Research
• Charlie Porter-Baker, Senior Lecturer
• Ian Jones, Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for the MA Youth Work Leadership and Practice The course is 100% assessed by coursework, which includes essays, reflective journals, worksheets, critical reviews, case studies, and a final module research-based independent study or dissertation.

Fees and Funding

• UK students:
  • Full-time: ｣9,100
  • Part-time: ｣4,550
• International students: ｣18,300 The University offers a range of scholarships, discounts, and loans to help fund studies.

Careers and Employability

The course equips students with the knowledge, skills, and understanding required to become effective practitioners and leaders within the youth work field and associated sectors. Graduates may go on to lead projects and work with young people in a variety of roles, offering generic or specialized support. The University's Employability Team provides personalized support, one-on-one coaching, and industry-specific advice to help students achieve their career goals.

Campus and Facilities

The course is based at the University's City Campus, which offers a range of facilities, including the Boots Library, IT facilities, and sports facilities. The campus is located in the heart of Nottingham, a vibrant city with a rich history and culture.

Applying

Applications can be made through the University's Applicant Portal. The University welcomes applications from prospective students with a range of qualifications and experience, and all are assessed on an individual basis.