BA (Hons) in Education Studies and Early Childhood, University of Winchester

Winchester,

36 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

This course prepares you for a career in early childhood settings and related fields. You'll develop an extensive understanding of research, policy, and practice in early years education, drawing from disciplines like education, social policy, disability studies, philosophy, health, and psychology. Throughout your studies, you'll gain theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and critical thinking abilities, enabling you to work confidently in early years or multi-professional contexts. The program emphasizes research-informed practice and professional development, supporting you in becoming reflective, critical, and future-ready. With placements integrated into each year, you’ll have hands-on experience in real early childhood settings, enhancing your practical competence and understanding of child development, health, relationships, play, culture, inclusion, and more.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for passionate individuals aiming to work with young children or pursue further study. It equips students with professional status as an Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner, alongside practical experience through placements, making graduates work-ready. The program’s emphasis on research, policy understanding, and multidisciplinary knowledge makes graduates capable of critical reflection and innovative practice. The university’s strong links with local and international early years providers and the focus on high-quality teaching by research-active tutors also add significant value to the learning experience.

Specialisation

The course offers a focus on early childhood development, policy, practice, and inclusive education. Students explore a broad range of factors influencing children’s growth, such as culture, race, gender, environment, and technology. The curriculum emphasizes research and practice, with opportunities to select optional modules in the third year, including a dissertation and additional specialization area.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

17.63L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need between 96-112 UCAS tariff points, equivalent to qualifications like CCC-BBC at A-levels, MMM-DMM in BTEC or CTEC, or a minimum of 2 Higher Level IB certificates at grade H4. GCSE English Language at grade 4 or above is required, alongside other qualifications such as the Access to Higher Education Diploma, Scottish Highers, or equivalent. For mature students, work and life experiences are considered. Additionally, applicants must obtain enhanced DBS clearance and pass a suitable level 2 literacy and numeracy qualification if aiming to attain the Graduate Practitioner status.

English language test

IELTS

5.5

DUOLINGO

TOEFL

PTE

Career prospects

Graduates often pursue roles such as Early Years Practitioners, Managers, and postgraduate teachers specializing in early years, SEN, or primary education. Opportunities extend to social services, health sectors, and other caring professions working with children, families, and communities. The course's strong foundation and professional status also prepare students for further postgraduate study, including PGCEs and Masters degrees. The university’s high employment rate for graduates reflects the value and demand for skills developed through this program.

FAQs

What are the English language requirements for international applicants?

International students need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component, or equivalent qualifications like Pearson PTE, Cambridge C1, or TOEFL iBT.

Are placements provided during the course?

Students arrange their own placements with support, and placements are included every year, providing essential practical experience in early years settings.