BA (Hons) in Early Childhood, University of the West of England

Bristol,

36 Months

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About this course

The BA(Hons) Early Childhood course at UWE Bristol offers a comprehensive foundation for careers involving children or further study.. It's an accessible, intellectually engaging program that examines issues related to children's roles in society, including education, special educational needs, and their learning and development from birth to eight years old. The course emphasizes linking theory to practice, enabling students to understand social, psychological, and philosophical factors affecting children’s lives. Work-related experience in early childhood settings is a central component, with opportunities to visit settings in each year of study and undertake longer placements in older years. The program develops key skills such as communication, critical thinking, research, and reflection, preparing students for diverse employment opportunities in childcare, education, and family support fields.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course combines academic rigor with practical experience, making it ideal for those passionate about working with young children. It is designed to develop essential skills such as communication, research, and reflection, which are highly valued in the sector. The program also prepares graduates to work at level 3 in early years settings, aligning with government requirements and facilitating employment in roles that contribute significantly to children's development. Its international perspective and diverse module options make it suitable for students aiming for a broad range of careers or further postgraduate study in fields like education, social work, or therapy.

Specialisation

The course focuses on early childhood, specifically issues affecting children from birth to eight years old. It covers areas like children’s roles in society, education, and development, with modules exploring childhood constructions, play, children's rights, policy, language, and reasoning. The curriculum allows students to tailor their learning towards areas of particular interest through optional modules and research projects, enhancing their expertise in early childhood environments and practices.

Course fees

Application fees

16.89L

1st year tuition fees

16.89L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need to meet a tariff point score of 104, achieved through Level 3 studies. GCSE requirements include a grade C/4 in English or equivalent. International students must meet specific English language requirements, such as a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each component, or approved equivalents. There are no specific subject prerequisites for A-levels or other qualifications, though relevant personal or professional experience can be considered.

English language test

PTE

TOEFL

IELTS

DUOLINGO

105

Career prospects

Graduates of this degree are well-prepared for a variety of roles, including managerial positions in childcare, children’s services, and family support. Many students further pursue postgraduate qualifications like PGCE for early years or primary teaching, or specialized degrees in social work, psychology, or speech and language therapy. The course's alignment with government standards also enables graduates to be counted in childcare staffing ratios at Level 3, opening doors to employment in diverse early childhood settings and related fields.

FAQs

What practical experience will I gain?

You will spend time in early childhood settings each year, including longer placements in your final year, to gain hands-on experience and insight into real-world working environments.

Can I further my studies after this course?

Yes, many students go on to postgraduate study, including PGCE for teaching, or programs in social work, play therapy, or speech and language therapy.