BES: Youth and Adult Development

Education is a significant component of many organizations that are outside the traditional structure of schools. For example, governmental agencies that focus on delivering services frequently include informing clients and providing educational programs as part of their core work. Many not-for-profit institutions and non-governmental organizations also have an educational focus as part of their mission. Organizations like these train and educate their staff members as well as their clients. UMSL’s BES program with an emphasis in Youth and Adult Development is designed to prepare professionals who will help these agencies and organizations in fulfilling the educational aspects of their missions.

In UMSL’s BES program, students gain skills and insights that can be applied as innovative educators, program managers, activity directors, trainers and as curriculum developers in these informal learning settings BES students in the Youth and Adult Development emphasis will find employment opportunities in organizations that work with after-school and youth programs, programs for special needs audiences and not-for-profit organizations that provide counseling and emergency services. Through the BES program, students have the opportunity to earn specific credentials, as needed, and to pursue academic minors related to their individual career goals. Traditional state teacher certification is not required for this emphasis area.

The Youth and Adult Development BES program is based on current research of best practices for effective teaching of youth and adults outside of the classroom setting. The program addresses educational theories and practice, curriculum emergence and development in informal education, human development theory and practice, diversity, advocacy, and family partnerships for education.

Through our strong internship offerings, UMSL BES students have opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in a variety of field and community based experiences which are included as part of their professional course work. These internship experiences take place in a variety of settings in the St. Louis region. Internships at signature organizations such as the St. Louis ARC, Dolan Houses Memory Care, Girls Inc., and UMSL SUCCEED offer authentic work site experiences with both suburban and urban populations. Built into the BES program is the flexibility for students to have a tailor-made culminating experience related to their professional goals and future career needs.