Diversities in Youth Care

The Master’s specialisation in Diversities in Youth Care challenges you to look differently at care giving and welfare policies. You will gain specific knowledge and develop a sixth sense on the health care needs of young people. You will broaden your vision. How come fewer immigrants accept (certain forms of) help? How can you make homosexuality a subject of discussion in certain cultures? You will look beyond your own values and differentiate between your own ethical beliefs and cultural values and universal beliefs.

Upon graduating you will be an expert in the area of diversities in youth care. Besides plenty of knowledge, skills and – if you want – experience abroad, you will have a dose of cultural relativism. Why do we do it like that? How could we do it differently? You can use this in your work as remedial educationalist or policy maker. After graduating you will be able to work in and outside of the Netherlands at (development) organisations and institutions in the fields of youth care, education, adoption and refugee relief.

Accreditation: NVAO

Erasmus Mundus program: This is an Erasmus Mundus program.

The Master's programme in Diversities in Youth Care at Radboud University offers students an in-depth exploration of the complex social, cultural, and individual factors that influence youth care practices. This multidisciplinary programme emphasizes understanding diversity in all its forms—ethnic, cultural, religious, social, and economic—and how these differences impact the development, wellbeing, and support of young people. Throughout the programme, students will examine various challenges faced by youth and their families, including issues related to identity, integration, discrimination, and social justice.

Designed for aspiring professionals in the field of youth care, social work, and related disciplines, this programme aims to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective intervention, policy development, and research. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, including case studies, fieldwork, and collaborative projects. Students will learn to critically analyze youth care policies and practices, develop culturally sensitive intervention strategies, and advocate for marginalized groups.

The programme covers key topics such as cultural competence, ethical considerations, participatory approaches, and interprofessional collaboration. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking and reflective skills to navigate the complexities of diverse youth populations. Students will engage with a variety of perspectives through lectures, seminars, and workshops led by experts from academia and practice settings.

In addition to academic coursework, students have opportunities for internships and field placements within youth care organizations, social services, and community projects. These practical experiences enable students to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, fostering professional growth and competence. The programme also encourages interdisciplinary teamwork and communication skills essential for working effectively in diverse environments.

Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared for careers in youth care organizations, social policy development, consultancy roles, or further academic research. They will possess a comprehensive understanding of diversity issues, equipped to contribute thoughtfully and ethically to creating inclusive, supportive environments for young people from all backgrounds. The programme’s international orientation and focus on contemporary societal challenges ensure that students are prepared for impactful careers in a dynamic and evolving field.

Knowledge of relevant domains in the field of Pedagogical Sciences (16 ECTS or more)

You have completed courses on subjects like:

• (special) education and learning
• developmental psychology
• neuroscience
• psychopathology
• parenting
• youth care
• ethics and philosophy

Proficiency in academic writing and critical reflection (15 ECTS or more)

As demonstrated by courses in which you’ve written a thesis, essay or research report. A sample of your written work must be submitted with your application. Your academic skills and ability to meet the publication requirements of the American Psychological Association (APA) will be assessed.

Proficiency in empirical research practice (20 ECTS or more)

You have completed courses on:

• research methodology used within the social sciences, including knowledge on inter- and intra-individual research designs (e.g. experiments, surveys, observational studies) and psychometrics

You have hands-on experience with data-analysis software and you are able to report and interpret qualitive or quantitative results according to the standards of the APA.

Proficiency in maintaining a professional attitude (8 ECTS or more)

You have completed courses on (therapeutic) interview techniques or have done an internship.

Proficiency in English

In order to take part in this Master’s programme, you need to be fluent in both written and spoken English. Non-native speakers of English without a Dutch Bachelor's degree or VWO diploma need one of the following:

• A TOEFL score of ≥550 (paper based) or ≥80 (internet based)
• A IELTS score of ≥6.5
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a mark of C or higher

* Applicants are considered to be a native speaker of English if they are from Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA or South Africa.

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Diversities in Youth Care program at Radboud University is designed to prepare students to effectively address and manage the various diversities encountered in youth care settings. The program emphasizes understanding cultural, social, and individual differences among youth and their families, fostering a comprehensive approach to supporting diverse populations. Students learn about the sociocultural contexts that influence youth development and behavior, enabling them to develop tailored interventions that respect each individual's background and needs. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, often including case studies, internships, and collaborative projects to enhance real-world application. The program also focuses on developing competencies in communication, intercultural sensitivity, and ethical considerations relevant to youth care work. Graduates are equipped to work in multidisciplinary teams and to implement inclusive practices in various youth care environments. The program's structure typically spans over one or two years, culminating in a specialized degree that opens doors to careers in social work, youth counseling, policy development, and community outreach. The faculty comprises experienced professionals with extensive expertise in youth care, diversity, and social sciences, ensuring a high-quality educational experience. Moreover, Radboud University promotes internationalization, encouraging students from different backgrounds to foster a rich learning community. Students are provided opportunities for international exchanges and collaborations, broadening their perspectives on youth care globally. The university's facilities and support services further enhance the learning environment, helping students succeed academically and professionally. Overall, Diversities in Youth Care at Radboud University aims to produce competent, culturally aware professionals dedicated to improving the lives of young people from diverse backgrounds through empathetic, informed, and inclusive practices.