BSc Childhood Studies (L520)
2024 entry | view 2025 entry
Course summary
This course focuses on policy and the rights of children and young people from birth to 19 years, exploring contemporary debates within a global context. Our research-based teaching includes the expertise of lecturers from related disciplines, including education, psychology, sociology, history, social work and law.
You will consider childhood in the contexts of families, peers and society at both a national and international level. Topics of study include children's rights, development, education, therapeutic work with children, safeguarding, youth justice, social harm and child and adolescent psychology, among others.
In the first year you will develop a solid understanding of the social, psychological and historical constructions of childhood. In the second and third years you can choose optional units from a wide range of subjects, including a work placement unit, allowing you to pursue different routes through the degree toward a career path that is right for you.
The interdisciplinary nature of this course makes it ideal for students from a range of different backgrounds who want to develop a holistic understanding of childhood. Our graduates go on to careers in areas as diverse as education, children's therapy, social work, law and social justice, children's charities, government and the civil service.
Course structure
All our degrees are designed to introduce you to the interdisciplinary study of childhood and adolescence and allow you to specialise as you progress through the degree.
The first year enables you to explore constructions of childhood and to discuss contemporary issues, debates and challenges in global childhood. You will begin to develop an understanding of child psychology and education that will further your critical academic and research skills.
Subsequent years allow you to develop your own specific pathway through the degree, depending on your particular interests and career choice. For example, you might follow a pathway in education, psychology, early years provision, social work, or law and justice, or you may choose a mix of units from other social science degrees.
During the second year there is an opportunity to gain real-life experience of working in a range of organisations and supporting children and families through our work placement unit.
Sample units may include:
- Child and Adolescent Psychology
- Children and Young People in the Law
- Youth Justice
- Youth, Sexualities and Gendered Violence
- Children in a Global Context.
Entry requirements
We accept a wide variety of qualifications and welcome applications from students of all backgrounds. Below is a guide to the typical offers for this course.
Find out more about BTEC entry requirements
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Selection process
- Regulations and codes of conduct we abide by to create a positive environment for learning and achievement are found in the University admissions policies and procedures.
- If applying with extenuating circumstances please see our policy.
- Full information about our selection processes for Childhood Studies can be found in the Admissions Statement:
Admissions statement - The admissions statement above relates to 2024 entry. The statement for 2025 entry will be available in summer 2024.