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The Open University

Undergraduate

Childhood and Youth

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A picture to illustrate studying childhood and youth at The Open University

Looking at the world from a child’s or young person’s point of view isn’t always easy.

If you’re working with children or young people, or are hoping to do so, our Childhood and Youth Studies programme offers a wide choice of one-off courses and qualifications that cover the full age range and can help your career. Start slowly, if it suits, and go as far as you need. We offer certificates, foundation degrees and honours degrees from the early years through adolescence to young adulthood.

By studying with the OU you can increase your awareness and appreciation of what it really means to grow up in today’s rapidly changing world, and become more effective in your role.

Where to start in Childhood and Youth

If you're fairly confident about studying, then start with Level 1 courses. You'll learn how to study at university level, get a thorough grounding in your chosen area of study and, in addition, you'll become a confident distance learner.

Worried about your ability? Or the time it will take? If you're a UK resident you can start with one of our Openings courses: short courses with lots of support and no exams, giving you a gradual introduction to your subject and the world of studying.

Don't forget that if you need help considering options you can talk to an adviser. And if you have some previous study experience you may qualify for credit transfer.

Degrees

  • Childhood and Youth Studies
    This degree is for those who work or intend to work with children and young people, or for those with more general interests in the interdisciplinary field of childhood and youth studies.
  • Early Years
    Gain the specialist knowledge you need to work with children aged 0-7 in early years settings with this degree.
  • Shortened BA Early Years
    Top-up your sector-endorsed foundation degree in early years to this degree, with or without honours, gaining the specialist knowledge to work with children aged 0-8.
  • Working with Young People
    This degree is suitable for experienced practitioners working directly with young people (aged 13–19 years) in informal settings or with informal educational roles in a formal environment.
  • Open degree
    The BA/BSc Open Degree provides a flexible way to combine a range of courses from different subjects either to suit your particular career or personal interests, or to complete studies you have started elsewhere.

Foundation Degrees

  • Early Years
    If you’re an experienced practitioner working with children from birth to seven years old in an early years setting, this degree will further your knowledge and skills.
  • Primary Teaching and Learning
    This foundation degree develops the professional knowledge and skills required by teaching and classroom assistants supporting children’s learning in primary schools.
  • Working with Young People
    This degree (JNC-validated for those starting the award prior to 2010) develops the skills/knowledge of those working with young people in informal education.
  • Youth Justice (England and Wales)
    This degree will suit if you work in the youth justice system (including the secure estate), volunteers working in this field, and those planning to join the youth justice workforce.

Courses in Childhood and Youth

See the list of all our individual courses in Childhood and Youth.

Postgraduate options

If you already have a degree, you may want to see postgraduate courses and qualifications in Childhood and Youth.

Spotlight on Childhood and Youth

Childminding or working in early years?

Looking for a professional qualification? The Certificate in Early Years Practice (C37) is ideal if you’re working in this sector without a professional qualification – as a childminder, in a playgroup or nursery setting, as a teaching assistant, or volunteering in these areas. This NQF Level 4, sector-endorsed qualification will enhance your existing role and could give your career a boost.

Qualifications for prior learning

If you’ve got experience in a caring professional area but no qualifications, then Make your experience count (U122) could be just what you’re looking for – the opportunity to gain credit towards higher education qualifications by drawing on your prior learning experiences.

 

Got a question?

Contact an adviser in our Student Registration & Enquiry Service
Email or call +44(0) 845 300 60 90

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