Master of Arts in Child, Youth and Family Studies
A master’s programme equipping professionals to lead and innovate in child, youth, and family services through critical analysis and policy development.
Best for:Best for professionals with a background in social sciences, early childhood education, or related fields who aim to advance their careers in child, youth, and family services through leadership and policy development.
Overview
The Master of Arts in Child, Youth and Family Studies at SETU Carlow offers a rigorous academic programme designed for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in managing and leading services for children, youth, and families. This degree provides learners with critical analytical tools to address contemporary challenges in the sector, fostering innovation and evidence-based practice. Participants engage in coursework that bridges theory and real-world application, preparing them to envision and implement improved service models. The programme is ideal for those with a background in social sciences, early childhood education, or related fields, as well as experienced practitioners seeking formal recognition through Recognised Prior Learning (RPL).
What you'll do
- Develop critical analytical skills to assess and improve child, youth, and family services.
- Engage in evidence-based practice to inform policy and service provision.
- Lead and manage services aimed at enhancing the well-being of children, youth, and families.
- Design innovative approaches to address challenges in the social sector.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to envision and implement improved service models.
- Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios in social services.
- Contribute to research and policy discussions within the field of child and family studies.
Requirements
Degree required: A Level 8 honours degree (minimum 2nd Class Honours) in Early Childhood Education and Care, Applied Social Studies, Social and Community Studies, Youth and Community, or a cognate area in Social Sciences. Alternatively, a primary Level 8 honours degree in another discipline with significant social sciences experience, as determined by SETU Carlow’s Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) policy.
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English proficiency (assumed for applicants with a degree taught in English; additional proof may be required for non-EU applicants).
Instruction: English
- Proven academic or professional experience in social sciences or related fields.
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
- Ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical service scenarios.
- Experience in managing or leading services for children, youth, or families (considered via RPL).
- Non-EU applicants must meet SETU’s international student requirements.
- Applicants with significant experience in social sciences may qualify via RPL.
- Case-by-case consideration for applicants with non-standard educational backgrounds.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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- Intake
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- Duration
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- Teaching language
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- Study mode
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- Campus
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- Prerequisites
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-08-28
Applicants must submit their application through the official SETU Carlow portal. Required documents include academic transcripts, proof of degree, a statement of purpose, and any additional materials relevant to RPL considerations. Non-EU applicants should refer to SETU’s international section for further guidance.
- CV or resume
- Academic transcripts (Level 8 degree)
- Proof of degree (certificate)
- Statement of purpose or personal statement
- Letters of recommendation (if applicable)
- Proof of English proficiency (if required)
- Details of relevant work experience (for RPL consideration)
Contact
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