Information on our Programs

Explore the Master of Arts in Child and Youth Study (MACYS) program with a focus on thesis-based learning, as well as the Master of Child and Youth Study (MCYS) program, which offers a non-thesis option. Both programs delve into critical issues impacting children and youth, providing comprehensive insights for individuals ranging from caregivers and educators to various professionals engaged in their well-being.

A flexible learning environment

Whether you’re working, studying full-time, or balancing the demands of your family, your career, and you’re education, we’re ready to help you succeed. At the Mount, we are committed to providing our students with flexible and accessible learning options. Most of our courses are offered in the evenings. We welcome both full-time and part-time students.

NOTE:  At present, both graduate programs are only available via ON-CAMPUS delivery, there is no ONLINE option.

Master of Arts in Child and Youth Study - (MACYS)(Thesis)

Program Highlights

Our Master of Arts program in Child and Youth Study will help you to develop an understanding of issues that affect children and youth in our region, in Canada, and around the world. In this thesis-based program, you will conduct focused and relevant original research in areas like early intervention, child and youth development, social justice, race and ethnic relations, child and youth health and wellness, play, and more.

Each student works with a faculty member to develop an original thesis topic, and to research and write a thesis. Recent student research focuses on areas such as children’s experiences of equine therapy, cultural sensitivity and early intervention, including persons with disabilities in faith communities, and more. More about students research (digital commons) »

Professional Skills

This program will help you to become a leader, a researcher, or an educator in this field. Our Master’s program builds on the knowledge and skills that you developed through your undergraduate education and practical experience. In both course work and in thesis research, you’ll delve into the theories that support the practices of professionals who work in the field of child and youth study.

Please see the Graduate Academic Calendar for a full program description.

Your Career

The MA in Child & Youth Study will help you become a leader in your field, perform the kind of research that affects how the people who work with children and youth do their jobs every day, and teach new professionals in the field. Graduates of our MA program are working in children’s centres, youth care, community services, special needs coordination, preschool outreach and early intervention, and as scholars and university and college instructors.

Are you ready to get started? Apply today »

Master of Child and Youth Study (MCYS)(Non-thesis)

Program Highlights

Embark on a transformative journey with our innovative MCYS (Non-thesis) program, designed to integrate applied research theory with real-world applications in the dynamic field of Child and Youth Study.

Why MCYS (Non-thesis)?

  • Engage in applied research and theory, bridging the gap between academia and practical real-world settings.
  • Non-thesis route allows you to connect Child and Youth theory and methods theory with professional contexts.
  • Ideal for prospective students looking to enhance their professional knowledge in the Child and Youth sector.

Professional Skills

The MCYS is a 10 (0.5) unit course-based program. Students at the end of the course-based MCYS program will be prepared to synthesize applied research into real-world professional environments and enhance their professional knowledge in the Child and Youth field leading to more professional opportunities in the sector. The MCYS courses are designed to be engaging and focus on the current real-world experiences of children and youth providing an intersectional and holistic context that students can apply in their future endeavors. The non-thesis graduate program can prepare graduates for a wide range of careers in the field of Child and Youth Study as it focuses on skills in critical thinking, reading, and writing, social-cultural contexts, and applied research.

Please see the Graduate Academic Calendar for a full program description.

Elevate your career and make a lasting impact in the Child and Youth sector with the MCYS Program (Non-thesis) at Mount Saint Vincent University!

Are you ready to get started? Apply today »