BA in Education, Culture and Childhood, The University of Sheffield

Sheffield,

36 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

The BA Education, Culture and Childhood is a unique degree that combines education and childhood studies, offering students a comprehensive perspective on current educational policies, child development, and childhood issues. The course covers areas like psychology, sociology, history, cultural studies, politics, and philosophy, encouraging students to critically engage with issues related to childhood and education. Throughout the program, students have opportunities for work placements, which are supported by partnerships with regional educators, such as nurseries, schools, hospitals, and cultural organizations. The structure includes core modules on topics like the sociology of education, child psychology, education history, and educational research methods, alongside optional modules that allow specialization in digital cultures, curriculum studies, or participatory research. The course aims to develop well-rounded graduates ready for careers in children's services, education policy, research, or further postgraduate study.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is highly regarded because it is one of only a few in the country to combine education and childhood studies, providing a well-rounded understanding of both fields. It offers dedicated placement support, allowing students to gain practical experience in various settings such as nurseries, schools, hospitals, and cultural organizations, which enhances employability. The supportive learning environment, with personalized feedback and small-group seminars, helps students develop critical thinking and research skills. Moreover, the degree is recognized for its impact and is delivered by a team of internationally acknowledged experts in education and childhood research. Its strong links with regional and national organizations also open up varied career opportunities or pathways to postgraduate qualifications.

Specialisation

This degree uniquely blends education studies with childhood studies, allowing students to explore a wide range of topics relating to childhood development, educational theories, policy, and practice. The optional modules provide opportunities to focus on areas like digital cultures, curriculum reform, or participatory research with children and young people. In the third year, students can tailor their learning further through research projects, dissertations, and specialized modules such as educational psychology in practice or globalising education. This flexible approach helps students develop specific expertise aligned with their career or academic interests within the broad fields of education and childhood.

Course fees

Application fees

25.13L

1st year tuition fees

25.13L

Living cost

Degree requirements

For admission, the course generally requires A Levels at ABB (or equivalent), including specific research subject interests for some offers, such as politics, sociology, childhood studies, and psychology. International Baccalaureate students need 33 points, and BTEC Extended Diplomas should be relevant subjects with appropriate grades. Other qualifications like T Levels, Scottish Highers, or the Access to HE Diploma are considered, provided they meet specified criteria. For mature students, relevant professional or educational qualifications are accepted. English language proficiency must be demonstrated through GCSE, IELTS, or equivalent qualifications. Specific visa and immigration requirements also apply for international students.

English language test

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

IELTS

6.5

Career prospects

Graduates from this degree can pursue careers across various sectors related to education and children’s services, including educational leadership, community work, early years services, youth work, and educational research. The degree provides a solid foundation for further training in social work, educational psychology, speech and language therapy, or occupational therapy. Some students progress towards teaching careers by undertaking postgraduate certifications like the PGCE. Others may choose to continue with postgraduate studies such as a master's or PhD to specialize further. The program’s emphasis on research, practical experience, and interdisciplinary understanding equips graduates to work in diverse environments like schools, children’s charities, hospitals, and cultural organizations.