The Youth Studies (English) master’s program at Marmara University is a two-year graduate degree taught fully in English. This program focuses on understanding young people, youth societies, their challenges and potential, and how policies and programmes affect youth life in local, national, and global contexts. Students study topics like sociology of youth, youth policy, social change, education and youth development, and research methods in social sciences. Through courses, seminars, and research work, students learn to analyse youth issues, design youth-oriented social programmes, and study the role of young people in social change and community life.
Located in Istanbul — a vibrant and multicultural city — the program offers students a rich environment to explore youth issues, social dynamics and cultural diversity. With instruction in English, students have access to global research, international collaborations, and a broad perspective on youth studies. This program is ideal for those who want to work in social policy, youth services, education, community work, research or international organisations — helping to understand and support youth in changing societies.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.) — Thesis (Graduate Programme)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters (2 years)
- Location: Istanbul, Turkey
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international, English)
- Admission semester: Fall semester (start of academic year)
- Area of study: Youth Studies / Social Sciences & Youth Policy
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction / Eligible for international students
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Youth Studies & Social Sciences
- Introduction to Youth Sociology & Youth Cultures
- Social Change, Youth and Modern Societies
- Research Methods in Social Sciences
- Academic English & Social Research Writing
Semester 2 – Youth Policy, Education & Social Work
- Youth Policy and Governance
- Education, Youth Development & Social Inclusion
- Human Rights, Youth and Society
- Elective Course I (e.g. Youth and Media, Migration & Youth)
Semester 3 – Specialized Topics & Research Preparation
- Youth Work and Community Programs
- Youth, Diversity and Social Integration
- Quantitative & Qualitative Methods for Youth Research
- Thesis Project Planning & Literature Review
Semester 4 – Thesis & Graduation
- Master’s Thesis / Research Project in Youth Studies
- Thesis Defense & Presentation
- Seminar on Ethics & Professional Practice in Youth Services
- Graduation & Career Preparation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can work as youth program managers, policy analysts, youth service coordinators, social researchers, community organisers, NGOs or non-profits staff, education & youth counsellors, or consultants for governmental institutions focusing on youth, social inclusion, and community development. They may also work in international organisations, think-tanks, social research centres, or continue with PhD studies in social sciences, youth studies, sociology or related disciplines. With English-taught education and international orientation, graduates are well-suited for global or cross-cultural youth work and research.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Youth Studies (English) master’s program at Marmara University means studying youth, social change and community with a global perspective and scientific background. You learn to understand challenges and opportunities young people face, study different societies and cultural dynamics, and gain analytical and research skills to contribute to social policy, youth services or community development.
Moreover, Istanbul offers a dynamic, multicultural context — perfect for studying youth in diverse social environments, engaging with real social issues, and connecting with organisations working on youth and social policies. The program’s English instruction and social science foundation make it a strong choice for those who care about social justice, youth empowerment and building inclusive communities.
Contact Information
Marmara University – Institute of Population & Social Research
Youth Studies (M.A.) Program
Sultanahmet / Main Campus
34110 Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 512 20 00
Fax: +90 212 526 41 93
Email: youthstudies@marmara.edu.tr
Institute of Population & Social Research – Student Affairs Office
Marmara University
Sultanahmet / Main Campus
34110 Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 512 20 10
Fax: +90 212 512 20 11
Email: socialresearch_student@marmara.edu.tr
International Office – Marmara University
Göztepe Campus
34722 Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 216 777 11 00
Fax: +90 216 777 11 01
Email: international@marmara.edu.tr
