MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice at the University of Sussex offers an in-depth exploration of the experiences, rights, and development of children and young people within contemporary society. Designed for students passionate about making a positive impact in young lives, the program combines academic theory with hands-on practice. It provides a critical understanding of social, educational, and policy frameworks affecting childhood and youth. Students are equipped with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to work across sectors such as education, social care, youth justice, and policy development, making this course ideal for those aspiring to influence change and support young people effectively.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice is structured to balance theoretical understanding with professional application. In the early stages, students explore foundational topics such as child development, sociological perspectives on childhood, education systems, and safeguarding practices. As they progress, the program delves deeper into areas like youth identity, social justice, global childhoods, and the impact of digital technologies on young lives. A strong emphasis is placed on reflective practice and critical analysis, preparing students for real-world challenges. Importantly, students undertake placements that allow them to integrate classroom learning with practical experience in youth services, educational settings, and non-profit organizations.
Research Focus: Research is at the heart of the BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth program at Sussex. Students benefit from a research-led teaching approach informed by the University’s internationally recognized expertise in childhood studies, education, and social policy. Current research themes include children's rights, inequalities in education, youth activism, mental health, and the effects of global migration on young people. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research projects, fostering skills in critical inquiry, data collection, and ethical research practices. This strong research orientation ensures that graduates are not only consumers of knowledge but also contributors to advancing understanding in childhood and youth studies.
Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex prioritizes industry engagement as a core element of the BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. Through structured placements and partnerships with local councils, schools, charities, and community organizations, students gain valuable on-the-ground experience. Sussex’s collaborations with organizations such as youth mentoring groups, early years settings, and social advocacy programs offer students real-world insights and networking opportunities. Workshops, guest lectures by practitioners, and career development programs further enhance students’ employability. This industry engagement ensures that graduates are well-prepared to transition into professional roles supporting children and young people.
Global Perspective: Recognizing the increasingly interconnected nature of childhood and youth issues, the program at Sussex integrates a strong global perspective. Students examine how childhood is constructed and experienced differently across cultures and contexts, exploring international frameworks such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Modules on global childhoods, migration, and international education policy broaden students’ understanding of global challenges faced by young people. Furthermore, Sussex’s vibrant international community and study abroad options offer students opportunities to gain cross-cultural experiences, equipping them with the skills needed to work in diverse environments and advocate for young people worldwide.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19050
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
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 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice program at the University of Sussex opens up a wide array of rewarding career opportunities for graduates who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people. With a combination of theoretical learning and practical experience, graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to work across various sectors, including education, social services, youth justice, and policy development.
Social Worker: Graduates of the program can pursue careers in social work, specifically in roles focusing on children and families. Social workers are responsible for supporting children and young people through challenging situations, including those involving abuse, neglect, family issues, and mental health concerns. With a strong foundation in child development, safeguarding, and social justice, graduates can work in local government social services, child protection agencies, and non-profit organizations. They are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact on the well-being of vulnerable young people.
Youth Worker: Youth workers engage with young people in community settings, providing support, guidance, and mentorship. This career allows graduates to work with diverse groups of young people, helping them develop their personal, social, and educational skills. Youth workers often work in community centers, schools, youth clubs, and charities, delivering programs that promote social inclusion, emotional well-being, and youth development. The program’s focus on youth identity and social justice ensures graduates are equipped to engage with young people from various backgrounds and support their growth.
Education Support Worker: Graduates can work as education support workers, assisting children and young people in educational settings. They may support students with special educational needs (SEN), help with classroom management, or provide one-on-one tutoring. Education support workers play a vital role in ensuring that all children have equal access to learning opportunities, particularly those who may face barriers due to learning disabilities or socio-economic factors. The program’s practical placements in educational settings offer valuable experience for this career.
Early Years Practitioner: For graduates interested in working with younger children, becoming an early years practitioner is a natural career path. Early years practitioners work in nurseries, preschools, and children’s centers, providing care and educational support to young children. They focus on fostering social, emotional, and cognitive development during critical early years. Graduates of the program, with their knowledge of child development and educational theory, are well-equipped to work with children from birth to age five, ensuring that they receive a strong foundation for their future learning.
Family Support Worker: Family support workers provide guidance to families who are facing difficulties. This role involves working with parents and caregivers to improve family dynamics, support child development, and address any social or economic challenges. Graduates of the Childhood and Youth program are well-prepared for this role, as they have a solid understanding of child development, parenting practices, and the social issues that affect families. Family support workers often work in local authorities, social services, and community organizations.
Children’s Mental Health Worker: Graduates interested in supporting the mental health of young people can pursue careers as mental health workers, specifically focused on children and adolescents. These professionals assess, treat, and support children who are dealing with emotional or psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. The program’s emphasis on youth development, safeguarding, and well-being prepares graduates to work in clinical, school-based, or community mental health settings, helping children and young people navigate mental health challenges.
Youth Justice Worker: Youth justice workers work with young people involved in the criminal justice system, aiming to reduce reoffending and support rehabilitation. They work with young offenders, providing advice, support, and guidance to help them reintegrate into society and prevent future criminal behavior. Graduates of the Childhood and Youth program, with their understanding of social issues, youth behavior, and justice systems, are well-equipped to work in youth detention centers, rehabilitation programs, and outreach initiatives.
Child Protection Officer: Child protection officers are responsible for investigating and intervening in cases of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation. They work to ensure that children and young people are safeguarded from harm and are provided with a safe environment in which they can thrive. Graduates of the BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth program, with their knowledge of safeguarding practices and child welfare policies, are well-prepared to take on roles in child protection services, working closely with families, schools, and other agencies to protect children from harm.
Policy Advisor or Researcher: Graduates of this program can also pursue careers in policy development, focusing on issues related to children and young people. Policy advisors or researchers work within government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy organizations to influence policy decisions that affect the lives of children. They conduct research, gather data, and provide recommendations on topics such as education reform, children’s rights, and social services. The program’s strong research component equips graduates with the necessary skills to contribute to the development of policies that support children and youth on a local, national, or international level.
Charity or Non-profit Worker: Graduates of the program can work in the charity and non-profit sectors, focusing on services for children, young people, and families. They may take on roles in advocacy, fundraising, project management, or service delivery, working for organizations that promote children’s rights, social justice, and youth development. This sector offers a wide range of opportunities for graduates to work in roles that directly impact the well-being of young people, whether through providing direct services or working to influence social change.
Youth and Community Development Officer: Youth and community development officers focus on building and strengthening communities by developing programs and services that support young people’s social and personal development. They work with local communities, schools, and organizations to create opportunities for youth engagement, social inclusion, and empowerment. Graduates of the Childhood and Youth program, with their understanding of social dynamics and community engagement, are well-equipped to lead initiatives that improve outcomes for young people in marginalized communities.
