Course summary

This course focuses on policy and the rights of children and young people from birth to 19 years, exploring contemporary debates within a global context. Our research-based teaching includes the expertise of lecturers from related disciplines, including education, psychology, sociology, history, social work and law. You will consider childhood in the contexts of families, peers and society at both a national and international level. Topics of study include children's rights, development, education, therapeutic work with children, safeguarding, youth justice, social harm and child and adolescent psychology, among others. In the first year you will develop a solid understanding of the social, psychological and historical constructions of childhood. In the second and third years you can choose optional units from a wide range of subjects, including a work placement unit, allowing you to pursue different routes through the degree toward a career path that is right for you. The interdisciplinary nature of this course makes it ideal for students from a range of different backgrounds who want to develop a holistic understanding of childhood. Our graduates go on to careers in areas as diverse as education, children's therapy, social work, law and social justice, children's charities, government and the civil service.