Fostering youth leader credibility: Professional, organizational, and community impacts associated with completion of an online master's degree in youth development leadership

Youth development leaders (YDLs) take diverse pathways to obtain the knowledge and skills needed for youthwork, from progression through organizational positions with no formal educational training in the field to obtaining advanced degrees focusing on specialized knowledge. Youth development degrees at the higher education level improve outcomes for YDLs as well as the youth they serve. When YDLs gain knowledge and skills rooted in youth development theory and practice, they are better able to offer high-quality programs and more likely to advance in their careers. This study identifies the perceived individual, organizational, and community level impacts on graduates of an online master's degree in Youth Development Leadership. The study found that graduates perceived their degrees were related to positive outcomes in professionalism (increased knowledge and application of youth development theory, heightened self-confidence and credibility in professional abilities, improvement of professional skills, career advancement, and recognition); improved organizational practices (with respect to training, staff management, and program quality); and increased community engagement (increased availability of programs and community collaboration). The online master's degree in Youth Development Leadership provided an opportunity for youth workers to build credibility on multiple levels by connecting theory to practice.