Childhood and Youth Studies (Q23)

Open University

Undergraduate BA (Hons) Distance learning 3-6 Years Social work, childhood, and youth studies

Childhood and Youth Studies (Q23) BA (Hons) is an undergraduate degree at Open University, based in Milton Keynes, taught distance learning over 3-6 years.

About this course

What makes young people tick? What shapes and influences children’s development? How can the adults who work with children support them more effectively? Childhood and youth studies is one of the UK’s fastest-growing academic disciplines. We’re a pioneer in this field and have developed this degree over the last two decades. You’ll explore fascinating topics affecting the lives of children and young people today, including child development and psychology, international childhoods, research with children and young people, and children’s literature. This wide-ranging interdisciplinary degree is suitable if you’re working with children and young people or have a general interest in the field.

Key features of the course
- Spans the full age range from 0–24, offering insights into childhood and young adulthood

- Study diverse topics such as child development, psychology, international childhoods, research with children and young people, and children’s literature

- Gain unique perspectives by exploring children's and young people’s lives from different perspectives alongside students studying and working in different settings

- Relevant to a wide range of careers in childcare, education, health and social care

Please note that in England, this course does not provide Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) or Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), and in Scotland, this course does not lead to SSSC registration in day care of children’s services. GCSE requirements may affect eligibility.

Career Prospects

Graduates from this course typically go into the following occupations. Click through for salaries, employment rates and other UK degrees that lead there:

Related Courses

Course Details

Qualification
Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)
Study Mode
Distance learning
Duration
3-6 Years
Start Date
2025

2025-entry data — 2026 offers may differ

Academic Year
2025
Campus / Location
Milton Keynes
Scheme
Undergraduate
Subjects
Social work, childhood, and youth studies