BA (Honours) Childhood Studies

The BA (Honours) Childhood Studies program at Sheffield Hallam University offers students a comprehensive understanding of childhood from a multidisciplinary perspective. This undergraduate degree explores various aspects of childhood, including child development, education, sociology, psychology, and social policy, preparing students for careers working with children and families.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA Childhood Studies program covers a broad range of topics relevant to understanding and supporting children's development and well-being. Students study child psychology, sociology of childhood, children's rights, child welfare, early childhood education, and research methods. The program emphasizes critical thinking, reflection, and practical application of theories to real-world contexts, fostering students' abilities to advocate for children's rights and contribute to positive social change.

Research Focus: Sheffield Hallam University places a strong emphasis on research in childhood studies, and the BA program reflects this commitment. Students learn how to critically evaluate research literature, design research studies, and apply research findings to inform policy and practice related to children and families. Faculty members are actively involved in research projects addressing diverse issues affecting children, providing students with opportunities to engage in research and contribute to knowledge advancement in the field.

Industry Engagement: The BA Childhood Studies program at Sheffield Hallam University maintains close links with organizations and agencies working with children and families, including schools, childcare centers, social services, non-profit organizations, and government departments. Students have opportunities for placements, internships, and practical projects in various settings, gaining firsthand experience and insight into the challenges and opportunities in working with children and families.

Global Perspective: Childhood is influenced by cultural, social, economic, and political factors that vary across different regions and contexts. The BA Childhood Studies program at Sheffield Hallam University incorporates a global perspective, exposing students to international perspectives on childhood, child rights issues, and global initiatives aimed at improving children's lives. Students have opportunities to study global case studies, engage with international guest speakers, and participate in global exchange programs, enhancing their understanding of childhood in diverse cultural contexts.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Sheffield Hallam University are typically required to have a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their high school or equivalent qualifications.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90, with at least 20 in Listening, 20 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 20 in Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 60 with no individual score below 51.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105 is required.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Sheffield Hallam University offers a range of scholarships to international students to support their academic journey and recognize their achievements. These scholarships are designed to provide financial assistance and enhance the overall student experience.

Transform Together Scholarships: These scholarships are available for undergraduate and postgraduate students and cover a significant proportion of the tuition fees. The scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, and applicants are required to demonstrate their commitment to making a positive impact in their home country after completing their studies.

Chevening Scholarships: Sheffield Hallam University is a Chevening partner, offering scholarships to exceptional students from Chevening-eligible countries. Chevening scholarships are fully funded and cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other study-related costs. Recipients of Chevening scholarships become part of the influential global network of Chevening Alumni.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Sheffield Hallam University offers scholarships specifically designed for students from certain countries. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, financial need, or other specific criteria.  

Sports Scholarships: Sheffield Hallam University recognizes the achievements of talented student-athletes by offering sports scholarships. These scholarships support athletes in balancing their academic and sporting commitments. Recipients of sports scholarships receive financial assistance, access to training facilities, coaching support, and other sports-related benefits.

Partnership Scholarships: The university has established partnerships with various organizations and institutions, leading to the availability of partnership scholarships. These scholarships may be offered to students from partner institutions or through collaborations with industry partners. They provide financial support and unique opportunities for academic and professional development.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes may vary from year to year.

Graduates of Sheffield Hallam University's BA (Honours) Childhood Studies program have a wide range of career opportunities available to them, leveraging their knowledge and understanding of childhood development, education, sociology, psychology, and social policy. With their multidisciplinary perspective on childhood, graduates can pursue rewarding careers working with children, families, and communities.

Early Childhood Educator: Many graduates choose to work as early childhood educators, teaching and caring for young children in preschools, nurseries, daycare centers, or early intervention programs. Early childhood educators create engaging learning environments, facilitate play-based activities, and support children's social, emotional, and cognitive development during their formative years.

Child Welfare Worker: Some graduates pursue careers as child welfare workers, advocating for and supporting children and families in need of assistance or intervention. Child welfare workers may work for social services agencies, non-profit organizations, or government departments, providing case management, family support services, and ensuring children's safety and well-being.

Child Life Specialist: Graduates interested in supporting children facing medical challenges may work as child life specialists in hospitals, pediatric clinics, or healthcare facilities. Child life specialists use play, education, and therapeutic techniques to help children cope with medical procedures, reduce anxiety, and promote positive experiences during hospitalization or medical treatment.

Family Support Worker: Graduates may work as family support workers, providing assistance and resources to families experiencing challenges such as poverty, housing instability, or parental stress. Family support workers collaborate with families to identify needs, access community services, and develop plans to strengthen family resilience and promote child well-being.

Child Advocacy Specialist: Some graduates pursue careers as child advocacy specialists, working for advocacy organizations, legal firms, or government agencies to protect and promote children's rights and interests. Child advocacy specialists may engage in policy analysis, lobbying, public education, and legal representation to address systemic issues affecting children and families.

Community Outreach Coordinator: Graduates may work as community outreach coordinators, developing and implementing programs and initiatives to support children and families in local communities. Community outreach coordinators collaborate with community organizations, schools, and government agencies to address community needs, promote child development, and foster community engagement.

Research Assistant: Graduates interested in research may work as research assistants for universities, research institutes, or government agencies, contributing to research projects and evaluations related to childhood development, education, social policy, or family dynamics. Research assistants collect data, conduct literature reviews, and assist with data analysis to inform evidence-based practices and policies.