Childhood and Youth Studies, BA (Hons)

The programme has children and young people at its centre and focuses on the many influences which affect their learning, development, health and wellbeing. It draws on expertise from a wide range of relevant disciplines including education, health, sociology, psychology, criminology and social care. You develop a holistic understanding of the knowledge and skills needed for multidisciplinary and team working in a range of communities and work settings. Research and enquiry are significant aspects of the programme and you are encouraged to develop critical awareness and the ability to evaluate theory and research which underpins knowledge, understanding, policy and practice with children, young people and their families. In the first academic year, studies include child development, contrasting formal and informal learning, inequalities, and health promotion. In subsequent years, this flexible degree enables you to explore particular age groups or specialisms such as education or health and the effects these may have on children and young people’s development. There is an opportunity to take a Volunteering module, and a reflective practice module; both modules involve reflecting on your experience of working alongside children or young people. The programme is ideal for those interested in deepening their knowledge and understanding about children and young people, have career aspirations to work with children and or young people, but are as yet undecided upon a specific career pathway and wish to keep their options open. Opportunities for voluntary work and working alongside children and young people in settings enables you to link theory and policy with practice, informing career choices and supporting employability.