Open University has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
Curious about what shapes childhood and youth in today’s world? This diploma gives you the tools to explore the lives of children and young people through a critical, real-world lens. You’ll develop your understanding of the factors influencing children and young people in a range of social and cultural contexts, and investigate the policies, practices and challenges that affect their lives. This engaging and wide-ranging interdisciplinary diploma is ideal for anyone working with children and young people or for those with a general interest in the field, whether you're aiming to progress your career or continue towards a full degree. Key features of the course
- Spans the full age range from 0–24, offering insights into childhood and young adulthood
- Includes topics such as child development and psychology, international childhoods, and research with children and young people
- Explores the lives of children and young people from different perspectives, alongside students studying and working in diverse settings
- Relevant to a wide range of careers in childcare, education, health, and social care
- No work experience needed - practice-focused and ideal for career starters and changers, assessed by assignments and with no exams
Assessment method
This qualification has two stages, each comprising 120 credits. In Stage 1, you’ll study a module that brings together perspectives from psychology, anthropology and sociology on children's and young people's development. In Stage 2, you’ll study a module that explores what it means to be a child in today’s world. At each stage, you’ll also choose an optional complementary module that fits your needs and interests.
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.
There are no formal entry requirements to study this qualification. However, for two of the Stage 1 option modules you’ll need to observe practice in a formal educational setting for children aged 3–12 or you’ll need practice experience in a setting for children aged 0–7. Find out more about these requirements by following the link to our website below.
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
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