Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice

Childhood and youth theory and practice is a discipline that takes seriously the experiences, rights, and developmental needs of children and young people, examining them through multiple disciplinary lenses including sociology, psychology, education, and social policy. It is a field concerned not only with understanding childhood and youth as social categories but with developing the professional knowledge and skills to support young people effectively. As the challenges facing young people, including mental health difficulties, economic insecurity, and educational inequality, grow more pressing, graduates with this kind of training are in increasing demand.

At the University of Sussex this three-year full-time programme includes a foundation year for those who benefit from additional academic preparation before entering the main degree, as well as a sandwich placement year, a year abroad, and a work placement component. You will develop a strong understanding of the challenges young people face and the theoretical and practical tools needed to respond to them. The curriculum covers child and youth development, social inequalities, policy analysis, safeguarding, and the professional and ethical frameworks that govern work with young people.

The typical entry tariff of 136 points reflects the standard expected on entry.

You will develop research skills, the ability to analyse complex social questions, reflective practice, and the professional capabilities needed to work effectively across a range of settings that serve children and young people.

Graduates pursue careers in youth work, social care, education, children's services, the voluntary sector, policy research, family support, and play and leisure. The degree also provides a foundation for further professional training in social work, teaching, or youth justice, and for postgraduate study in childhood studies, education, or social policy.