Youth Development Track

Work in child care programs

Put youth on the path to future success. Lead groups, direct activities and meet kids’ educational needs.

Degree options

Want to pursue the youth development track? Review the program requirements for the exact courses you need to take.

Use the four-year plan below as a guide for your overall schedule.

Why take the youth development track?

  • Get the training needed for your future career. Our observation and field experiences allow you to work with youth in a program.
  • Customize your courses to make you a better candidate for internships and jobs.
  • Make connections while you’re in school. We have an active student organization: Advocating for Families and Children.
  • Your courses prepare you for careers in other fields, too. Explore your options as a child life specialist, center director or someone who works with families.
Boys and Girls club director with kids
Careers and outcomes
Work with school-aged children (6-12 years old) in group settings. Help them thrive when school isn’t in session.
Missouri State student using laptop
Internship
Apply classroom theory and learning to your future career field.