Youth development How to apply

University of Missouri
Master of arts in human development and family science
Youth in a group hug.
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How to apply

Fulfill the admission requirements:

  • Completed bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 hours of undergraduate education.
  • If English is not your native language, please submit a TOEFL score of at least 80 (internet-based test), an IELTS score of at least 6.5, a Pearson Test of English (PTE) score of at least 59 or a Cambridge C1 Advanced score of at least 180.
  • GRE scores are not required.

For questions about the youth development master’s program and how it fits your personal and professional goals, reach out to the program’s academic advisor, Melissa Herzog, at HerzogM@missouri.edu or call 573-884-9845.

Application dates

This program accepts rolling admissions, so you can apply at any time. We require you submit your application at least six weeks before the beginning of the term in which you wish to start your course work.

To start classes in Apply by Classes begin
Fall July 15 Mid-August
Spring Dec. 1 Mid-January
Summer April 15 Early June

Gather your papers

Applying will be easier and faster if you gather these required documents beforehand:

  • Transcripts of all previous college or university education. Upload unofficial transcripts in your online application. If you are accepted, you will be asked to provide official transcripts.
  • Three letters of recommendation. In the online application, you will need to supply names and contact details of three professionals who can attest to your critical thinking, analytical and writing skills, demonstrating your potential as a graduate student and professional. The Graduate School will contact your references with instructions regarding the letters.
  • Résumé or CV.
  • Statement of purpose outlining your career goals.
  • TOEFL, IELTS, PTE or C1 Advanced score reports for applicants whose native language is not English. For information on sending test scores, visit the Grad School website.

Complete the online application

Carefully follow the instructions on the application site.

  • Upload the above documents in the online application
  • Degree/delivery: Masters- Distance (Online/Remote Site/etc.)
  • Academic program: Human Development and Family Science/Youth Development-Distance (MA)
  • Domestic application fee: $75.00
  • International application fee: $100.00

Application fee waiver questions: Contact MU Graduate Admissions with questions via 573-882-6311 or 1-800-877-6312 or via email at gradadmin@missouri.edu

Apply here

Learn more about this program

This program is administered by the Department of Human Development and Family Science

Program contact

Melissa Herzog, PhD

  • Associate Teaching Professor, Youth Development Program Academic Advisor, Department of Human Development and Family Science
  • herzogm@missouri.edu
  • 573-884-9845