BA (Hons) Childhood and Society Studies (Top-Up)
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-16 | - |
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Childhood and Society Studies (Top-Up) program provides professionals working with children and young people with a comprehensive understanding of childhood-related issues. It enhances employability, prepares for further study, and offers an optional pathway in Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies, meeting the growing demand for qualified early childhood practitioners. The program is delivered part-time or full-time, with flexible evening classes and online learning options.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
BA (Hons) Childhood and Society Studies (Top-Up)
The program is designed for professionals working with children and young people who want to gain a full undergraduate degree in Childhood Studies. It provides a deeper understanding of childhood-related topics and allows individuals to analyze their own practices and those of others in childhood settings. Completion of the program may enhance career prospects and opens doors for further study.
Key Objectives:
- Develop a broader understanding of childhood-related issues and concepts.
- Analyze and improve your own practices and those of others in childhood settings.
- Enhance your employability in the field of childhood studies.
- Prepare for further study at the postgraduate level.
Unique Features:
- Opportunity to study the optional pathway in Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies, leading to the degree title BA (Hons) Childhood and Society Studies with Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies.
- This pathway enhances employability and meets the growing demand for qualified early childhood practitioners.
- Part-time study option available for working professionals with commitments.
- Evening classes and online learning ensure flexibility for working individuals.
- Strong link to current practices and real-world applications.
- Taught by experienced and knowledgeable faculty with expertise in childhood studies.
Program Delivery:
- Duration: Part-time (2 years) or Full-time (1 year)
- Class Schedule: Evenings, 2 sessions per week (part-time), Full-time schedule will be provided at a later date.
Optional Pathway:
- Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies: This pathway prepares individuals for professional practice in the early childhood sector. It emphasizes child development, early intervention strategies, and best practices for nurturing care.
Outline:
Module Structure:
The program comprises a blend of core and optional modules. Part-time students can also opt for the additional pathway in Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies.
Core Modules (National Level 6 - 40 credits each):
Work Based Research Project: Develop research skills and apply them to a specific topic in childhood studies. Equality and Diversity: Explore issues of equality and diversity in society and their impact on children and young people. Leading Practice for Children and Young People: Examine effective leadership practices within childhood settings and develop your own leadership skills. Education and Society: Understand the relationship between education and society and its implications for child development and learning.
Optional Modules (National Level 6 - 20 credits each):
- Creative Teaching and Thinking
- The Foundation Years
- Children, Young People and Digital Learning
- The Foundation Years with Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies (available only for part-time students with employment and experience)
Additional Pathway for Part-time Students:
- Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies:
- Consists of 4 modules totaling 60 credits.
- Focuses on the development and application of knowledge and skills relevant to early childhood practice.
Module Descriptions:
Core Modules:
- Work Based Research Project: Students will choose a specific topic related to their professional practice and conduct independent research to answer relevant questions. The project requires critical analysis of existing literature, data collection and analysis, and the presentation of findings.
- Equality and Diversity: This module explores various aspects of equality and diversity, including race, class, culture, disability, gender, and sexual orientation. Students will analyze how these factors impact children's experiences and learn to critically assess societal responses and provisions aimed at achieving equality.
- Leading Practice for Children and Young People: The module examines various leadership styles and theories relevant to childhood settings. Students will investigate effective leadership practices, explore ethical considerations, and develop their own leadership skills through real-world case studies.
- Education and Society: Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between education and society. They will examine historical, sociological, anthropological, and philosophical perspectives on education and learn how various contexts impact students' learning experiences.
Optional Modules:
- Creative Teaching and Thinking: This module focuses on developing innovative teaching practices for diverse groups of children, spanning from large groups to individual children. Students will explore creative teaching strategies, develop support resources, and critically analyze current educational policies and rhetoric.
- The Foundation Years: The module examines the concept of nurturing care and its importance in early childhood development. Students will learn about early intervention strategies and best practices for creating supportive learning environments for young children.
- Children, Young People and Digital Learning: Designed for educators across all levels, from early childhood to higher education, this module promotes a shared understanding of digital competence needs. Students will explore various digital learning techniques and strategies to help learners achieve their academic potential.
- The Foundation Years with Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies: This module combines essential learning from "The Foundation Years" with a focus on developing and demonstrating competence in nine Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies. Students will gain practical experience and gather evidence of their proficiency in these competencies.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Assessed coursework assignments, including essays, reports, presentations, and other activities.
- Examinations, both written and in-class.
- Practical activities and demonstration of skills.
- For the Work Based Research Project, students will submit a comprehensive report and present their findings to a panel.
Assessment Criteria:
- All assessments will be evaluated based on specific criteria related to learning outcomes, demonstrating knowledge and understanding, critical analysis, problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and professional practice.
- Each module may have unique assessment criteria that will be provided to students at the beginning of the semester.
Grading System:
Grades are assigned using a standard letter grade system (A-F) and a corresponding grade point value.
Feedback:
Students will receive regular feedback on their progress through written comments on assignments, verbal feedback in class, and personalized feedback during individual consultations.
Teaching:
Teaching Philosophy:
The program uses a learner-centered approach, promoting active participation, critical reflection, and collaborative learning. Teaching styles vary depending on the specific module, but all instructors aim to create a supportive and interactive learning environment.
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures and seminars provide foundational knowledge and facilitate in-depth discussion.
- Group work and collaborative projects encourage teamwork and hone communication skills.
- Practical exercises and case studies help students apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations.
- Independent research projects allow students to explore their interests and develop research skills.
Faculty Expertise:
The program is taught by experienced and qualified faculty with expertise in childhood studies, education, and related fields. Staff members have extensive experience working with children and young people, which adds a valuable practical dimension to their teaching.
Unique Approaches:
- Integration of research and practice: The program places a strong emphasis on applying research findings to real-world scenarios. Students are encouraged to connect their learning to their professional experiences and contribute to advancing knowledge in the field of childhood studies.
- Leadership development: The program equips students with leadership skills crucial for working effectively in various childhood settings. They will learn to manage teams, navigate complex ethical dilemmas, and advocate for the needs of children and young people.
Student Support:
The program offers various support mechanisms to ensure student success. Students can access academic advisors for guidance, receive disability support services, and benefit from online learning resources and libraries. The University also offers personal counseling and mental health support services.
Virtual Learning Environment:
The program utilizes a virtual learning environment where students can access course materials, submit assignments, engage in online discussions, and receive announcements and updates.
Careers:
Career Opportunities:
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Childhood and Society Studies (Top-Up) program are well-positioned for a variety of careers working with children and young people, including:
- Early Years Educator
- Primary School Teacher
- Youth Worker
- Social Worker
- Child Psychologist
- Educational Psychologist
- Family Support Worker
- Community Development Worker
- Policy Analyst
Further Study:
The program also serves as a strong foundation for further postgraduate study, such as:
- MA Childhood and Youth Studies
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
- MSc Inequality and Society
- MA Social Work
Graduate Employability:
The program aims to enhance graduates' employment prospects by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary for success in the chosen field. The program curriculum aligns with current industry standards, and many graduates secure employment opportunities in their area of interest.
Other:
Additional Information:
- The program welcomes students with diverse educational backgrounds, including those who hold an existing Level 5 qualification in relevant subjects like Education and Care.
- Students who have completed a Foundation Degree in relevant areas may be eligible for direct entry into the second year of the Top-Up program.
- The program has strong links with various organizations working with children and young people, potentially leading to internship opportunities for students.
- The University's location in Sunderland provides easy access to a diverse range of childhood settings, offering practical learning experiences for students.
The annual, full-time fee for this course is: £9,250 if you're from the UK/Europe £16,000 if you're an international student (EU nationals will receive a £5,750 scholarship to reduce their fee to £10,250) Part-time fees are £6,935 per 120 credits. Part-time study isn't available to international students who require a student visa to study in the UK.
- The discounted fee will be reflected in your offer letter. Learn more in our Help and Advice article.
