Childhood and Youth Studies

Childhood and youth studies is an interdisciplinary field that places children and young people at the centre of academic inquiry, drawing on sociology, social policy, psychology, and cultural studies to examine their lives, experiences, and wellbeing. It asks how childhood is defined and experienced across different contexts, how social institutions shape the opportunities available to young people, and how policies affecting children are developed, implemented, and evaluated. In an era of rapid technological and social change, the questions this discipline raises, about digital lives, mental health, inequality, and safeguarding, are more urgent than ever.

At the University of Bedfordshire, this full-time, three-year programme combines current theory with practical experience, providing a thorough understanding of the needs of children and young people in a contemporary context. You will begin by exploring child development and child welfare alongside the social policies and legislation that govern how children are protected and supported. As you progress, you will have the opportunity to specialise in areas such as mental health, disability, special educational needs, and youth violence, building expertise in the issues that matter most to you and that are most relevant to your intended career direction.

The typical entry tariff is 104 UCAS points.

Graduates from childhood and youth studies programmes work in social care, education, youth work, early years provision, health promotion, policy analysis, and local government. Many graduates progress to social work training, either as a direct continuation of their undergraduate study or through a postgraduate route. Others move into teaching, family support, safeguarding roles, charity and voluntary sector work, or research positions.

The degree provides an excellent foundation for postgraduate study in social work, education, public policy, or related fields, and for professional registration in a range of child and youth-facing professions.