Youth Development BA

A better future starts with our youth.

High school students working together to construct a stick-based structure

Become a youth leadership professional.

Our multidisciplinary, youth development program combines courses in education, social work and nonprofit studies to prepare you to work with populations ranging in age from three to 21 in a variety of settings.

In-Demand Careers

  • Childcare Worker
  • Social Service Manager
  • Case Manager
  • Youth Minister
  • Camp Director
  • Outreach Worker

Why Youth Development? | Why Our Program?

  • Our Bachelor of Arts program is unique within Rhode Island and encompasses coursework from multiple disciplines.
  • Our students graduate prepared to work with youth in after-school programs, recreation centers, community arts centers, youth residential housing, justice and probation sites, youth ministry and governmental agencies.
  • Our program includes a student-chosen minor or self-designed concentration composed of five-plus courses, in addition to a 180-hour internship.
  • Topics covered in the include: social justice, educational psychology, human development, social work, nonprofit studies, children and youth with disabilities and pedagogy.

Get More Program Specifics

Our Youth Development Faculty

Hear From a Student

Marleni Suazo

Marleni Suazo

“Our youth need role models; they need somebody who will see their potential and empower them.”

Impacting Local Youth

18JAV entrance

Take the Next Step!

Feinstein School of Education and Human Development

The Feinstein School administers and coordinates all professional education programs at 18JAV. We offer a range of programs, including early childhood, pre-K-12, counseling, school psychology, youth development and health and wellness.