Open University has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
Interested in making a difference in young children’s lives? This Early Childhood degree focuses on children from birth to seven years, ideal if you work with young children or want to learn more about their experiences. You’ll explore early childhood through national and international perspectives, focusing on children’s voices, play, creativity and participation. Drawing on theory and research, you’ll examine how children develop and learn within families, communities and early years settings. You’ll also consider early childhood in diverse social, cultural and multi-disciplinary contexts, building critical insight for further study or professional work in early childhood care and education. Key features of the course
- Suitable for people working, volunteering or looking to work in the early childhood sector
- Takes a holistic approach to understanding early childhood from a range of perspectives
- Explores the importance of young children’s play and creativity in the context of the family and early childhood settings
- Encourages collaboration with other students to reflect on contemporary issues and debates in early childhood
Modules
This qualification has three stages, each comprising 120 credits. You’ll start Stage 1 with two modules that explore how children learn; 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. Finally, in Stage 3, you’ll complete your degree with two further modules – one that focuses on the development of a multidisciplinary professional workforce for children and one that will introduce you to a range of research methods and analytical techniques.
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.
Additional entry requirements
Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland)
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
No fee information has been provided for this 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
2026/2027 academic year fees are not yet available.
Provider information
Open University
Student Recruitment Team
PO Box 197
Milton Keynes
MK7 6BJ