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 degree 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. You’ll also gain an understanding of early childhood in diverse social, cultural and multi-disciplinary contexts. Key features of the course
- Professionally and vocationally relevant across many early childhood contexts
- Takes a holistic approach to understanding early childhood from a range of perspectives
- 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
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
| England | £21816 | Whole course |
| Republic of Ireland | £20952 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £7128 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £6954 | Whole course |
| Wales | £7872 | Whole course |
| EU | £22416 | Whole course |
| International | £22416 | Whole course |
| Channel Islands | £22416 | Whole course |
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