Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Community Development and Youth Work

The meaning of community development and youth work can be interpreted and understood in a variety of ways. It is apparent in today's contemporary societies that inequalities exist, environments are under increasing pressure and for some individuals, human rights remain unfulfilled.

The Community Development and Youth Work degree is designed to enable graduates to become critical thinkers and to work with diverse groups of people across the lifespan. The degree encourages learners to engage in dialogue, lectures, group work, on-line learning, case studies and complete practice placements.

Through these interactions learners develop skills, knowledge and practice to work in community development and youth work. The graduate as a critical thinker may work with different groups to promote social inclusion and transformation.

This programme is professional endorsed by The All-Ireland Endorsement Body for Community Work Education and Training (AIEB) and the North South Education and Training Standards Committee for Youth Work (NSETS). 

The potential career paths for successful graduates of the programme are varied.  These may include:

• Youth Worker in National and International Youth Organisations 

• Youth Justice Worker

• Community Development Worker 

• Youth Officer (Education and Training Boards) 

• Rural and Community Development Organisations 

• International Non-governmental Organisations (human rights, advocacy, development education)

• Childhood and Youth Charitable Organisations 

• School Completion Programmes

• Partnership Companies

• Family Resource Centres 

• Educator in Further Education/ Higher Education 

• Government departments 

• Policy design and development

• Research roles 

Garda Vetting

All learners are required to obtain Garda Vetting by GMIT on commencement of their studies.

Joint module delivery

Throughout the programme some modules are jointly delivered across different disciplines.  Learners will be facilitated in interacting with and getting to know others learners beyond their own programme.  This will expose learners to different perspectives and encourage engagement with diversity and difference.  Joint modules also create spaces to develop friendships and form working relationships and collaborations.

Online delivery

Learners are supported throughout the programme to develop IT literacy skills. This includes the delivery and completion of on-line elements within some modules. Computer access is available with the college to all students.  Learners have the option to access and complete online elements off-campus.

Professional Practice Placement

Professional Practice Placement is central to enable learners direct experience of community and youth work settings.  Learners are encouraged to integrate theory and practice; develop skills required for building relationships and trust; to become a reflective and reflexive practitioner to enhance personal awareness and develop inclusive and empowering practice. 

The Professional Practice Co-ordinator will liaise with learners to secure appropriate placements throughout the programme.

Professional Practice Placements commence in 1st Year and learners will experience both Community Development and Youth Work placements throughout the programme.  

Exit Award

We are aware that personal circumstances can change for learners and for whatever reason some individuals are unable to complete four years of study.  The option exists for those who have successfully completed stage/year one, two and three can exit with a Level 7 award in Community Development and Youth Work.

Contact Us

Sheila McArdle

Programme Chair
E-mail: Sheila.mcardle@gmit.ie
Telephone: +353 (0)94 904 3118