Open University has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
If you currently work with children from birth to seven years, or are looking to learn more about young children’s lives and experiences, this diploma could be of interest to you. You’ll investigate early childhood from national and international perspectives with a focus on the central importance of children’s voices and the participatory nature of young children’s experiences. In this diploma, you'll develop your understanding of policy and practice in early childhood. It will help prepare you for further study and give you a foundation for careers working with young children and their families across all sectors. Key features of the course
- Takes a holistic approach to understanding early childhood in diverse contexts
- Covers young children’s play and creativity within the context of the family and early childhood settings
- Encourages critical understanding and reflection on contemporary issues and debates in early childhood
- Enhances employability and provides a solid foundation for further study
Modules
This qualification has two stages, each comprising 120 credits. You’ll start Stage 1 with two modules that explore how children learn, and and the importance of children’s play. Then, in Stage 2, you’ll study a module that further develops and broadens your knowledge and understanding of young children’s lives and learning, followed by one from a list of options.
How to apply
To apply for this course you will be taken to the provider's website, where you can find out more information and make an application.
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
There are no qualification requirements for this course.
You do not need to be working with young children in order to study this qualification; however to enhance your learning in core practice-focused modules, it is strongly recommended that students gain direct experience with young children (birth to 7 years, 11 months). Students not working with young children (employed or in a voluntary capacity) will need to negotiate opportunities to gain such practical experience. It is your responsibility and that of your employer – not the OU’s - to ensure the necessary Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (or equivalent if not working in England) required for the setting and country in which you’re working is obtained and that you meet the ‘fit person’ criteria for work with young children. If you are in any doubt about your eligibility, or to find out more, contact the relevant agency in your country.
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
http://www.open.ac.uk/courses/early-years/diplomas/diploma-in-early-childhood-w50#entry-requirements
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £14544 | Whole course |
| Republic of Ireland | £13968 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £4752 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £4636 | Whole course |
| Wales | £5248 | Whole course |
| EU | £14944 | Whole course |
| International | £14944 | Whole course |
| Channel Islands | £14944 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Fee information is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2025. Fees typically increase annually.
Provider information
Open University
Student Recruitment Team
PO Box 197
Milton Keynes
MK7 6BJ