University of Derby United Kingdom

Early Childhood Studies

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

If you are passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of young children, the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies at the University of Derby offers a robust pathway into crucial roles within health, education, and social care. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring professionals who wish to champion the development and well-being of children, fostering essential skills and promoting positive milestones. You will explore foundational theories, pedagogical approaches, and the critical discourses surrounding childhood, preparing you to become an informed and effective advocate in this vital sector.

This full-time, on-campus degree, studied over three years, will immerse you in a curriculum that balances academic rigour with practical application. You will engage with core modules covering safeguarding, policy, research methodologies, and creative pedagogies, alongside opportunities for paediatric first aid training and primary research. Through active learning and collaboration with a research-informed academic team, you will develop essential employability skills. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared to pursue further study or embark on a rewarding career in early childhood settings nationally and internationally.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program explores the multifaceted field of early childhood, examining holistic development, professional identities, and the theoretical underpinnings of childhood. Students will engage with topics such as safeguarding, health and wellbeing, and creative pedagogies, preparing them for impactful roles in the sector. The curriculum emphasizes research, critical practice, and leadership, culminating in an independent research project.

1 Year One

Preparing to Study
Understanding Holistic Development
Professional Identities in Early Childhood (Academic Route)
Professional Identities in Early Childhood (Graduate Practitioner Competencies and Practitioner Options Routes)
Contextualising Childhood: Theory, Philosophy and Pioneers
Supporting Holistic Development
Principles for Sustainability through Play and Creativity

2 Year Two

Safeguarding Children Advocacy, Policy and Practice
Professional Identities for Equitable Practice (Academic Route)
Professional Identities for Equitable Practice (Graduate Practitioner Competencies and Practitioner Options Routes)
Research in Early Childhood Ethics, Agency and Participation
Creative Communication and Listening in Early Childhood
Promoting Children’s Health and Wellbeing
Preparing to Study at Level 6: Research, Reflection and Academic Integrity

3 Year Three

Independent Research Project
Creative Pedagogies
Health and Inequalities in Children’s Lives
Professional Identities for Critical Practice and Leadership
Challenging Childhood: Rights, Discourses and Debates

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

12% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,160.00 USD 22,843.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,843.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,843.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 65,848.00 USD 68,531.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on Derby Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationCorporate Training & DevelopmentEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesHealthcare Administration & ManagementHealthcare ConsultingNursing & Allied HealthRehabilitation & PhysiotherapySecondary & High School EducationVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AQA

Derby College

NHS

University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust

Why Study Early Childhood Studies at University of Derby

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Derby in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Early Childhood Studies at University of Derby

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you'll need an overall IELTS score of 6, with a minimum of 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. This ensures you're well-prepared for academic engagement.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as early years educators, child development specialists, and family support workers.

What will I actually study in this course?

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.

Our purpose is

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake month for the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies program is September. Make sure to prepare your application in advance to meet the deadlines.
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