Undergraduate Course

Early Childhood Studies
BA (Hons)

Discover how children develop, learn and think. Gaining valuable experience through placements and fieldtrips, you’ll be equipped for careers where you can make a real difference to children’s lives.
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Course details

Study options

Full-time: 3 years, Part-time: Up to 6 years

UK/EU fee

£9,250 per year* (2020/21)

International fee

£14,045 per year (2020/21)

UCAS points

112 (September 2020 entry)

UCAS code

X310

Course level

Undergraduate

Qualification

BA (Hons)

Start date

September†

Location

Kedleston Road, Derby Campus

This course is available as a Joint Honours degree.

View Joint Honours optionsView Joint Honours options

If you do not achieve the typical entry points required, you may want to consider studying this course with foundation year.

View with foundation year optionView with foundation year option

Course description

The University of Derby Leads the Way

From September 2018, The University of Derby will be one of only four Universities in the country to offer graduate level practitioner competencies for students studying BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies from Stage 1 of the degree.

The Competencies have been developed by members of the Early Childhood Studies Degrees Network (ECSDN) in consultation with students and employers, with an aim of ‘strengthening a graduate-led Early Childhood workforce that is responsive to workforce needs and improves outcomes for children’ (ECSDN, 2018). 

Students that achieve the Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner competencies will meet the nine competencies through assessed observations of practice, practice-based tasks and academic assessment.

The Early Childhood Graduate Competencies are:

  1. Advocating for young children’s rights and participation
  2. Promote holistic child development
  3. Work directly with young children, families and colleagues to promote health, well-being, safety and nurturing care
  4. Observe, listen and plan for young children to support their well-being, early learning, progression and transitions
  5. Safeguarding and child protection
  6. Inclusive practice
  7. Partnership with parents and caregivers
  8. Collaborating with others
  9. Professional development

 

'We are delighted to have been part of the development of these competencies and to be able to offer our students this important opportunity. These developments will enhance reflective practice, graduate employability and the progression onto post-graduate study. The Early Childhood Competencies will not only serve to strengthen the practice of our students and their critical application of theory to practice but will also make an important contribution towards meeting our on-going aim of building a graduate led workforce for children and families.'  Carol Fenton and Helen Simmons, Programme Leaders: BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies

BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies lecturers, students and graduates talk about the course and how it can benefit a career working with young children
Top25for Education**The Guardian University Guide 2020

If you’d like to make a genuine and lasting difference to children’s lives, our BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies is an excellent foundation for vital roles in health, education and social care.

There can be few more rewarding professions than working with young children, helping them to reach important milestones and to develop skills that will last a lifetime. Our BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies degree is your first step to a successful and worthwhile future. 

Explore how children develop

You’ll gain a thorough understanding of early childhood from birth to eight years, exploring how children develop, learn and think. You’ll look at the importance of early childhood from a broad range of perspectives.

Our focus throughout is on identifying and meeting children’s holistic needs, so you’ll consider all the challenges and opportunities faced by early years professionals working in a variety of children’s services.

The role of professional and personal development is an important theme for this course. By spending a substantial amount of time on placement, you'll draw on your own practical experiences with young children to advance your knowledge. 

Professional credibility

Our BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies course enables you to gain practitioner recognition if you do not already hold a practical qualification relating to the field.

A contemporary and relevant course, it is included in the Department for Education’s new qualifications list for settings that deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage for children.

It means that your qualification will be well regarded by prospective employers – and this is reflected in our strong track record for enhancing students’ career prospects. Latest statistics show that 98.2% of our Early Childhood Studies graduates were in employment or further study within six months of completing the course. 

You have the opportunity to achieve extra qualifications as part of your studies, such as the British Red Cross Paediatric First Aid certificate which is an important asset for employers. 

Practical experience on placement

Real-world learning lies at the heart of this course. You’ll undertake a placement for one or two days each week, building your skills in working with children and boosting your employability.

We liaise closely with nurseries, children’s centres and other early years employers across the region, so you’ll gain practical knowledge of what it is like to work in different settings as well as developing your observational and reflective skills.

There is also the opportunity to go on fieldtrips to places such as the Museum of Childhood, Think Tank Museum and Eureka Children’s Museum.

Broaden your horizons

Thanks to our strong professional links overseas, you’ll have the chance to apply for an international placement. Successful applicants spend four weeks in Milan, working in a pre-school and living with a local family. It’s an experience which will build your independence, give you valuable new perspectives and provide an impressive addition to your CV.

Other European fieldtrips have seen our students visit the famous Peto Institute in Budapest to gain insights into its ground breaking work with children who have complex disabilities.

If you would like to widen your international outlook further still, you also have the opportunity to study abroad in the second semester of stage two. Under the Go Places, Go Further scheme, we have agreements with universities in Amsterdam and Brussels where you can explore a new culture and enhance your career potential.

Be inspired by leading experts

Our course is delivered by a highly experienced team, including influential researchers and published authors. It means your course is shaped by the latest thinking and innovative ideas which are changing the face of early childhood studies.

Our staff have conducted important studies into a wide range of subjects, from creativity for early years professionals to social constructions of childhood, from the pressures faced by new parents to ways of engaging fathers in early years settings.

You may even take part in fascinating research initiatives yourself. Our students have, for instance, worked with school children and community groups to draw up ideas for improving the play and educational potential of various parks in Nottinghamshire. 

Our annual conferences also give you the chance to share findings from your own projects with an audience of fellow students and practitioners.

A vibrant learning experience

We pride ourselves on offering a friendly, welcoming learning environment where you will receive plenty of encouragement and guidance. Our tutors are approachable, dedicated and passionate about their subjects.

You’ll learn in our Kirtley Building which offers first-rate facilities for our Education and Childhood Studies students. It includes specially designed collaborative learning spaces and a large hall for practical activities and observing learning in action.

Flexibility and choice

If you already have appropriate qualifications and experience, you could start this course at stage two or three.

We offer a variety of optional modules so that you can tailor your studies to match your personal interests and career aspirations. These could cover themes as diverse as children’s literature, family dynamics, health and inequality, child protection and children across the world.

Guaranteed interviews for our PGCE Primary

If you complete this degree and meet the entry requirements for our PGCE Primary, we will guarantee you an interview during your final year of undergraduate study (subject to places being available). 

Places on our PGCE are highly sought after, so we recommend you apply as early as possible once UCAS opens.

Terms and conditions:

What you will study

Year 1Year 1Year 2Year 2Year 3Year 3
Core modules
Early Language and Communication
Early Emotional and Social Development
Play and Creativity in the Early Years
Self-Management, Study Skills and ICT
The Emerging Practitioner
The Growing Child
Core modules
Children's Health
Developing Employability
The Early Years' Researcher
Child Protection
Optional modules
Emerging Literacies in the Early Years
Family Dynamics: Children Parents and Families
The Young Child in School: A UK Perspective
Children Across the World
Technology in Early Childhood
Wellbeing From Birth
Creative Approaches to the Curriculum 0-8 Years
The European Early Years Curriculum
The European Citizen
The European Early Years Placement
Montessori Education
Core modules
The Critically Reflective Practitioner
Contesting Childhood
Independent Study
Optional modules
The Young Child in Transition: Supporting Change and Promoting Resilience
Child Protection
Leadership in Early Childhood Education and Care
Children's Voices: Listening and Experiences
Creative Possibilities and Opportunities in the Early Years
Health and Inequality in Children's Lives
International Perspectives in Early Childhood Education and Care
Inclusion, Special Educational Needs and Disability
Vulnerable Children and the Law
Back to Module List

Code: 4EY500

Early Language and Communication

Language and Communication are central to children’s emotional, social and cognitive development. The ability to express needs, feelings, opinions and questions unlocks the world of understanding, knowledge and relationships for the young child.

This module provides students with key knowledge of language and communication development in young children and babies, identifies the role of the adult in promoting language and looks at theories of language development. It provides the student with the opportunity to discuss and analyse a range of theoretical perspectives and consider their application to practice.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4EY501

Early Emotional and Social Development

The 1989 UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (Article 31) stresses the importance of young children’s experiences of emotional security and warm relationships for healthy early emotional development, well- being and happiness.

This module explores the ways in which adults can promote successful personal, social and emotional development towards these (above) objectives. It also examines how a positive start in life and a sure foundation is likely to have a direct impact on well-being and achievement later in life.

There will be an exploration of theories of attachment plus social development and the critical role of the adults with whom children come into contact. Different styles of parenting are examined as is the importance of encouraging a positive and healthy self-image.

The module will also review recent research into emotional literacy and resilience, considering how these findings can inform practice and support the development of the skills and attitudes of people who are involved with young children.

Reference: UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (November 1989) UNICEF

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4EY502

Play and Creativity in the Early Years

The module considers the role of play and creativity within young children’s learning and development in early childhood education and care. It will examine a range of theories in relation to how play supports children’s holistic development, as well as how opportunities for play and creativity can be provided within early years settings. The module will also consider the relationship between the current curriculum guidance and opportunities for play and creativity.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4EY503

Self-Management, Study Skills and ICT

This module is intended to develop the students’ skills and confidence in producing academic writing and confident use of the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (ULE). It will deal with how to collect information from academically appropriate sources and present this in a well structured manner with indication as to its source.

The skills developed in this module are generic ones which will be applicable across all modules. Additionally, the module facilitates self evaluation of a range of key skills and promotes the development of an action plan focusing on academic, personal and career outcomes. Inherent in this is the development of the skill of critical self reflection.

More information
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4EY504

The Emerging Practitioner

The module investigates concepts of care and education within the landscape of provision for children and families. It examines a variety of settings and the legislation which underpins practice within them. This module will provide the context for workplace preparation, an opportunity to see observation in practice and promote students responsibility in relation to safeguarding children within the work setting.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 4EY506

The Growing Child

Due to the wide diversity of students in terms of age range, prior knowledge of this subject, experience and ability, an innovative approach to teaching this module has been adopted. It aims to encourage the development of methods of enquiry in students, and the opportunity to undertake exploratory study and to share information.
20 Credits
core
Exam
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY500

Children's Health

This module is intended to develop students’ knowledge of concepts of health as they apply to children in contemporary society. and how this is related to healthy growth and development. Throughout the module, a strong emphasis is placed on poverty and its’ resultant inequalities in health, the policy context including children’s right to health and the role of the Early Years Educator in promoting children’s health and wellbeing.
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY502

Developing Employability

This module seeks to further students’ personal and professional development, building upon skills learnt in Stage 1, with a particular focus on reflective practice skills. Within the early years sector high value is placed upon the importance of working collaboratively as part of a team, particularly in moving towards securing the highest standards of children’s welfare.

This module enables students to review their personal and professional development and the successful and limiting factors which influence working together effectively with children, parents, and professionals from both a theoretical, practice and employability skills perspective.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY505

The Early Years' Researcher

The module is designed to help you plan your own research, develop research skills in a topic of your own choice and give the opportunity to study an area of interest to you. The knowledge gained will help in the understanding of how practice and theory inform each other.

The module is also intended to prepare you to complete your Independent Study in Stage 3. It involves the development of a range of skills, including the ability to study independently.

Crucially, the Ethical Guidelines of the University are explored and how they affect students, settings and tutors. There is support and guidance available to you at each stage of this module to help you progress.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY518

Child Protection

This module is aimed at students who are planning to work with children in early years, health, social care and education settings. The purpose of this module is to equip students with knowledge and understanding that will help them to identify children at risk of or suffering abuse and neglect.

The module will help students to understand the policies and procedures that will help them fulfil their safeguarding responsibilities effectively. The module also aims to promote understanding of multi-agency and multi-disciplinary working in the field of safeguarding children.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY501

Emerging Literacies in the Early Years

The module considers the role of children’s emergent literacies in an increasingly digital age. It will look at the historical context of children’s literature and how childhood is portrayed within children’s reading material.

It will explore the relationship between children’s literacies and current issues in childhood experience and consider how books and digital material can be used to support children’s learning.

The module aims to equip students with a deeper understanding of how important aspects of childhood are addressed through image, icon and text illustration as well as writing.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Practical
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY504

Family Dynamics: Children Parents and Families

This module is designed to enable students to identify and evaluate the unique influence of the family in children’s development. It is concerned with the examination of the effects of early relationships within the family and ways in which these might influence the course of development.

The importance of parenting is considered here alongside contemporary research from psychology and to a lesser extent sociology. The changing nature of the family during the late 20th and early 21st centuries is considered.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY506

The Young Child in School: A UK Perspective

Early years’ education is subject to the ebb and flow of social and economic demands, politics and philosophy. However, through all these changes, the majority of young children attend school.

The history of early years’ education will be considered as well as the philosophy and theory which underpins early years’ learning provision. The daily lived experience of the young child’s school life will be viewed through an holistic perspective of the school day, including curriculum components, governance and relationships.

This module will provide the student with a thorough knowledge of the possible experience of a young child in school and will build on any prior placement experience in school.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY508

Children Across the World

This module provides students with an opportunity to consider children’s diverse and different experiences of childhood. It explores differing experiences of childhood from sociological perspectives and considers how inequalities impact on children’s lives. It analyses how ideas about children and childhood are constructed within socio cultural contexts in relation to social class, gender and ethnicity.
20 Credits
optional
Practical
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY509

Technology in Early Childhood

The module is intended to help students to consider the impact on children of growing up in an environment in which they are immersed in technology. It will consider the range of technology to which children are exposed and enable critical examination of the possible effects of these new technologies on the development of their skills, knowledge, understanding and social practices.

It will consider the attitudes and perceptions of children, parents and practitioners and what the technologies have to offer.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Practical
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY510

Wellbeing From Birth

This module explores the world of babies and very young children and current theories and perspectives into their wellbeing. It explores how infants learn and develop through their emerging relationships with others. This module enables students to examine the provision of an environment in which babies and young children can flourish.
20 Credits
optional
Practical
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY511

Creative Approaches to the Curriculum 0-8 Years

This module builds on stage 1 modules Play and Creativity and the Emerging Practitioner and explores the central role of creativity in children’s early learning.

The module will explore how creativity can support children to become autonomous in their own learning through decision making and how we can provide opportunities for them to develop individual approaches to learning across the curriculum. This will focus upon creative approaches to learning and teaching related to the current curriculum.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY512

The European Early Years Curriculum

There is a growing interest in the curricula followed by early year’s settings across Europe and beyond. This module requires students to consider the implications of the similarities and differences between curriculum design and pedagogical practices.
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY513

The European Citizen

There is a growing interest in the identity of European citizens and what it means to be European. The children of today will grow up in a world where such distinction is understood quite differently to the way they were understood by their parents. This module requires students to consider the nature of national identity and what it means to be a European child.
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY514

The European Early Years Placement

Through work experience, students improve their knowledge, understanding, and professionalism. This enhances their employment progression following their time at university. This module recognises the importance of a work placement in linking theory to practice. It is also expected that students will work as a part of a team in an unfamiliar context, reflecting on the challenges encountered and how those challenges were met.
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 5EY515

Montessori Education

One of the claims of Montessori pedagogics is that learning and behavioural problems are signalled earlier and easier than in a regular school, due to the individual approach of children and the respect from the teacher for the individual development of children.

You will compare the several types of schools in their aims and claims referring to this topic. You will visit so-called "regular" schools and Montessori schools, deepening your insight into the main question for every teacher: What does my ideal school look like?

More information
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY503

The Critically Reflective Practitioner

The term reflection has been interpreted by theorists and practitioners in a number of different ways and is used for different purposes. This module explores ideas and theories about the purpose of critical reflection and its use to practitioners and students in the final year of the early childhood studies undergraduate programme.

It enables students to recall, explain, analyse and reflect upon their own professional practice and personal development through the nurturing of critical thinking skills. It provides an opportunity for students to bring synthesis to their academic and practice-based journey and their personal progression.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY504

Contesting Childhood

This module aims to equip students with a critical understanding of childhood; recognising it is a contested phenomenon. It explores competing ideas from history, philosophy, psychology and sociology about the concept of ‘childhood’, children’s development and reflects upon current research findings especially when considering how different groups (or communities) consider notions of ‘upbringing’. It is particularly useful in developing students’ critical thinking skills.

The style of presentation is necessarily dialogic and includes individual and small group tasks requiring skills of working together, debate and communication.

More information
20 Credits
core
Practical
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY998

Independent Study

This module is designed to enable students to bring to bear upon a personally chosen field of study a range of skills developed in the course to date in order to identify an aspect of practice in relation to the care and education of younger children which they have studied or researched in considerable.

This will provide a distinctive and unique aspect to their degree qualification and will represent a field of knowledge and understanding which may be developed further in practice, postgraduate study or research. A central feature of the conduct of this module will be the generation of a learning contract between students and the members of staff allocated to the support of this module.

More information
20 Credits
core
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY500

The Young Child in Transition: Supporting Change and Promoting Resilience

The Module is intended to stimulate thinking on two areas of child development that have underpinned the whole BA programme.

Research suggests that if a child is able to cope with the expected changes they can anticipate through their childhood, then they will be able to cope better when the unexpected things happen.

We need to identify ways of supporting children through these expected and unexpected changes so that they are better able to construct their understanding of their world. The strength that comes from this understanding is called resilience.

Research suggests that children who develop the ability to be resilient will develop into adults who can support themselves more effectively.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY501

Child Protection

This module is intended to extend student’s existing theoretical and practical based knowledge and understanding of the role of Early Years’ practitioners in protecting children from abuse and supporting children at risk. The module examines the current legislative and procedural framework for child protection and the responsibilities of the multi-disciplinary team within us.
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY502

Leadership in Early Childhood Education and Care

This module is intended to address some of the key issues for leaders in early years’ settings and the challenges they face. This will include the development of skills, ensuring quality and the different types of leadership styles. Additional consideration will be given to the developing professionalism agenda.
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY505

Children's Voices: Listening and Experiences

Children live different lives according to the context in which they are located. This module aims to provide a framework for exploration of these (in some respects) unique experiences without judgement and in full recognition of the validity and these varied lives.

The course addresses issues of (children’s) rights and citizenship in modern contexts globally and its content includes ‘ways of asking’, different languages through which children can feel confident to express their feelings and experiences, hopes, fears, aspirations (to name but a few). Practitioners’ roles and approaches are clearly key to this process as well.

This relatively new area is, arguably, part of new thinking about children as active participants in interpreting and making meanings of their world(s). The assessment strategy is innovative and different with both a human element and an opportunity to demonstrate summarising and presentational skills.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Practical
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY506

Creative Possibilities and Opportunities in the Early Years

Creativity has achieved, in recent years, renewed status, supported by compelling claims for deep learning, deep thinking, emotional satisfaction and engagement with others. Recent interest has extended the notion of creativity to encompass children’s geographies, engagement with nature and awareness of surroundings.

This module aims to equip students with a critical understanding and awareness of both the importance of and potential for children’s creative development in the wider context of play spaces, community and home. There is opportunity to discuss economic, social and political influences on freedom, risk and play opportunities.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY507

Health and Inequality in Children's Lives

This module explores the relationship between children’s health and socio-economic status. It considers how health inequality in childhood not only impacts unfavourably on outcomes for children but also has significant implications for life prospects in adulthood. Health inequalities are considered from both a historical and contemporary perspective and attempts to address them are viewed through an exploration of the wider social, political and economic conditions that prevail. There is a critical analysis of health intervention strategies which have been designed to improve children’s health.
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY508

International Perspectives in Early Childhood Education and Care

The aim of this module is to raise critical thinking in relation to contemporary academic debates about childhood, children and children’s services, drawing on practice from across the world. It recognises that there are significant differences in practice, exploring their origins and justification. The module encourages students to ask whether these differences in approach are important. Through examination of the policy and practice in a range of countries, specific aspects of provision are contrasted with the United Kingdom.

As we live in a competitive international environment, this module examines the premise that it is becoming increasingly important to be aware of alternatives and a see early childhood from a global perspective.

The module explores a range of provision from across the world and requires a critical consideration of how specific international provision can inform personal and professional attitudes and practice.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY510

Inclusion, Special Educational Needs and Disability

In this optional module, students will critically analyse current values and attitudes surrounding special educational needs and disability critically reflecting on current practice. This module will explore the complex nature of special educational needs and disability and examine the importance of accurate diagnosis in meeting individual needs and strategies presently used in children’s services to promote inclusion.
20 Credits
optional
Practical
Coursework
Back to Module List

Code: 6EY511

Vulnerable Children and the Law

This module focuses on the contemporary international and national legal framework in respect of vulnerable children. The module aims to demystify children’s law and provide students with up to date, in-depth knowledge and understanding regarding child law as a basis for working effectively with vulnerable children in a range of settings.

This module builds upon a number of key modules you have already undertaken. You will consolidate and extend the knowledge gained through prior learning and experience of working with children.

More information
20 Credits
optional
Coursework

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

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Open Days

Register your interest for a future Open Day and we'll be in touch as soon as we are able to welcome you on campus.

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How you will learn

You’ll be taught through lectures, seminar activities and tutorials to support you through your assessments and group work.

How you're assessed

You’ll be assessed using case studies, essays, independent research, online tests, posters, presentations and reports. There are no exams.

Children playing in a forest area

Outdoor Learning Space

Learn how to apply education in an outdoor setting, using nature to improve the personal, social and technical skills of children.

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Personal academic tutoring

Your personal academic tutor will work with you to help you get the most out of your time at university. Having someone to talk to about your academic progress, your university experience and your professional aspirations is hugely valuable. We want you to feel challenged in your studies, stretched but confident to achieve your academic and professional goals.

Find out more about personal academic tutoring

Who will teach you

Headshot of Helen Simmons smiling

Dr Helen Simmons
Programme leader

Dr Helen Simmons is a Senior Lecturer and the Programme Leader of the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies and Pathway Leader of the MA Education (Early Years Pathway) at the University of Derby. Helen has undertaken research and publication relating to leadership in the early years and early years policy, and her thesis focused on surveillance within modern motherhood.

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Entry requirements

September 2020 typical entry requirements

RequirementWhat we're looking for
UCAS points112 (up to 16 from AS-levels)
Specific requirements at A-level

No specific subject requirements

Specific requirements at GCSEGCSE Maths and English Grade C/Grade 4 (or above) or equivalent qualification
IELTS6.0 (with 5.5 in each skills area)
Interview / AuditionN/A
PortfolioN/A

Alternative entry qualifications:

We usually consider an A-level in General Studies as a supplementary qualification. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.

A Disqualification by Association (DBA) statement is required for this course. In some circumstances an Ofsted Waiver may also be required. We will contact you with information on how to complete this when required. More information.

An Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service certificate cleared by the University is required for this course. We will contact you with information on how to complete this once you have applied. More information.

Our entry requirements for this course should be read together with the University's general entry requirements, which details subjects we accept, alternative qualifications and what we're looking for at Derby.

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Academic Achievement Scholarship

We’re offering eligible students a £1,000 scholarship to celebrate your hard work and success.

Learn more about the Academic Achievement ScholarshipLearn more about the Academic Achievement Scholarship

Fees and funding

2020/21 Fees

 Full-timePart-time
UK/EU

£9,250 per year*

£1,155 per module*

International

£14,045 per year

N/A

* The fees stated above are for the 2019/20 academic year; fees for 2020/21 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. We will update this information as soon as it is available.

Further information about our fees and support you may be entitled to.

Additional costs and optional extras

How to apply

UK/EU students

Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.

Part-time students should apply directly to the University.

Apply through UCASApply directly to the University

Guidance for EU students post-Brexit

International students

Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.

Apply through UCASApply directly to the University

Guidance for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree

Careers

This degree is your chance to shape and influence many young lives. Early childhood roles are a rapidly growing area of employment in the UK – opening doors to stimulating careers in the independent, private, public or voluntary sectors.

Well qualified and dedicated early childhood professionals are in demand across health, education and social care settings. Our graduates are now enjoying successful careers as early years practitioners and managers. You’ll also find there are ample opportunities for promotion and progression to leadership positions in children’s services.

Our degree is an excellent platform to broaden your career scope by taking additional qualifications. Some of our graduates have, for instance, gone on to train as children’s nurses by undertaking a shortened two-year Paediatric Nursing qualification. You can also consider our exciting range of postgraduate courses, including the MA Education or MA Social Work.

Please note that this course does not lead to Qualified Teacher Status. However, if you’d like to train to be a teacher, you will be guaranteed an interview for our PGCE Primary if you meet the entry requirements. 

You could also apply to study our PGCE Post-14 (Education and Training) or PG Cert Early Years with Early Years Teacher Status (0-5).

Student testimonial quote from Charlotte Baker
Charlotte Baker, Early Childhood Studies graduate

Contact us

If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.

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† Additional information about your studies

Full-time: September. January starts available for part-time, level 6 students only.

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Teaching hours

Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.

Additional costs and optional extras

We’re committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.

Included in your fees

Mandatory costs not included in your fees

Optional costs not included in your fees

Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.

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Full-time

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