This BA (Hons) degree at Edge Hill University explores the lives of children and young people both in the UK and internationally. Over three years full-time (or six years part-time), you will examine childhood development while engaging with ideas about crime, harm, rights, and social justice. The course critically analyses the role of the criminal justice system, questioning how social status influences justice and rights. It is ideal for those interested in careers in youth justice and related fields, offering extensive skills in reporting, presenting, and working collaboratively. Students will study a diverse range of modules covering criminology, sociology, social policy, and child development, with opportunities for work placements, studying abroad, and learning additional languages.
Why this course is highly recommended
This course is highly valued because it offers a comprehensive understanding of both childhood and criminology, two interlinked fields that are crucial to social policy and justice. With an emphasis on practical skills like report writing, presenting, and teamwork, it prepares students for careers in youth justice, social work, law enforcement, education, and policy advocacy. The inclusion of work placements, studying abroad, and language options enhances employability and cultural awareness, making graduates well-equipped to make a difference in their future roles.
The course combines childhood and youth studies with criminology, providing a unique interdisciplinary approach. You will focus on understanding childhood as a social construction, explore issues related to crime, harm, and social justice, and critically examine the criminal justice system. Optional modules allow further specialisation in topics such as youth justice, media representations, gender, violence, and the politics of imprisonment, enabling students to tailor their studies to particular interests and career ambitions.
Application fees
17.95L
1st year tuition fees
17.95L
Living cost
Applicants typically need 104-112 UCAS Tariff points, with examples including grades like BCC-BBC at A Level, DMM on BTEC, or equivalent qualifications. No specific subjects are required, and the course welcomes international students who meet the English language requirement of IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component. Additional qualifications such as access courses or IB are accepted with specific criteria outlined.

English language test
Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria,
and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Edge Hill University admission page
for complete details.
Graduates are well-positioned for careers in youth justice services, social work, criminal justice agencies, education, welfare rights, and advocacy. The course’s interdisciplinary nature also opens opportunities in law enforcement, care and resettlement of offenders, and international aid organizations. Further study or research within childhood and youth studies is also a promising pathway for those interested in academic or policy-oriented careers.