Childhood, Youth and Education Studies, BA (Hons)

The Childhood, Youth and Education Studies degree at Coventry University is designed for individuals passionate about supporting the learning and development of children and young people in various educational settings. This flexible program builds essential knowledge, skills, and practical experience through classroom learning, work placements, and international opportunities. It explores key themes like safeguarding, social justice, and the impact of digital media on youth development, preparing students for rewarding careers in social work, community support, or teaching.The course emphasizes employability, with modules in psychology, sociology, and research methods across three years, including professional placements. Assessments involve coursework such as essays, presentations, and portfolios, fostering innovative thinking and real-world application. By engaging with guest speakers and focusing on global perspectives, students are equipped to address contemporary challenges in education and wellbeing.

The information on this page is for 2024-25 entry and should be used as guidance for 2025-26 entry. Please keep checking back on this course page to see our latest updates. Year one The first year will introduce you to the key themes within the degree including childhood and youth in context, theory and practice of education and skills for working with children and young people. You will begin to develop an understanding of some of the challenges faced by children and young people including safeguarding, exclusion and social justice. You will also consider the impact of digital media, technology and popular culture on children and young people’s development. Modules Childhood and Youth in Context - 20 credits Theories of Education - 20 credits Personal and Academic Development - 20 credits Skills for Working with Children and Young People - 20 credits Curricula for Learning and Development - 20 credits Safeguarding Children and Young People - 20 credits Year Two The second year builds on first year themes, exploring the major disciplines of psychology, sociology and approaches to research within education. This also includes an introduction to professional experience spanning the first semester in a children’s and or young people’s setting. The types of placements may vary significantly, reflecting the range of interests on the course, but you will have an opportunity to access a wide range of practical support and signposting to help you find the right placement for you2. Examples of work undertaken by previous students include teaching or SEN support within a primary school, pastoral and mentoring support in a secondary school, youth support work in community settings and play therapy within a hospital setting. Modules Introduction to Professional Experience - 20 credits Multi-Disciplinary Practice: Methods and Models - 20 credits Psychology of Childhood, Youth and Education - 20 credits Sociology of Childhood, Youth, and Education - 20 credits Research Methods - 20 credits Health and Wellbeing Education - 20 credits Placement Year There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future. If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee of £1,250. For further information please check the course page on the Coventry University website. During this time you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement. Final Year Year three aims to bring you to the level to enter the world of work by consolidating your knowledge and skills from year one and two. This includes a second professional experience placement2 spanning the first semester, alongside highlighting special and inclusive needs of children and young people, and contemporary practices. You will also work on a dissertation in an area of your interest, with the support of a supervisor and your Academic Personal Tutor. Modules Professional Experience - 20 credits Innovation, Creativity and Change - 20 credits International and Comparative Perspectives - 20 credits Special and Inclusive Education - 20 credits Dissertation - 40 credits We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated. Before accepting any offers, please check the website for the most up to date course content. For full module details please check the course page on the Coventry University website.