Course summary

The BA (Hons) Childhood, Youth and Community Studies degree adopts an interdisciplinary approach to exploring key contemporary issues and practice in childhood, youth and community settings. The broad based degree prepares students to have a positive impact on the learning, development, wellbeing and outcomes of children, young people and their communities across all sectors. In addition to a consideration of different theoretical perspectives and the application of theory to current challenges, students have the opportunity to tailor their learning to fit specific career interests through a range of optional modules in the second and third year of study, building their confidence and enabling them to acquire specialist skills sought by employers. Students will explore theories of child development and learning (in both formal and informal contexts), the wider societal influences that impact and shape this development and how the adults working with children, young people and the wider community can support these groups more effectively. Students will develop a range of professional transferable skills, a deep knowledge of how children and young people are perceived by society and how society supports its youngest and most vulnerable members. The course combines practical experience and research-informed theory to provide students with a thorough, current understanding of the needs of children, young people and community. A specific focus of the programme is the applied nature of the course with placement opportunities in each year and semester of the degree. Graduate employment is supported through the structure of the degree programme and optional modules developing academic, transferable and employability skills. Graduates go on to careers as learning mentors, project workers (in third sector organisations), community work, working in a children’s centre or services for young people and onto postgraduate study including preparation for primary teaching.