Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons)

University of Gloucestershire

Our Early Childhood Studies degree will give you the specialist skills you need to make a real difference to the lives of children (aged 0–8 years) and families, including those with additional needs. You’ll explore contemporary influences and factors that impact upon children’s lives and examine how to provide the most enabling environment for their development. You’ll investigate areas linked to education including health, social care, psychology and sociology. With opportunities to gain work experience in a range of early years settings, our graduates stand out from the competition. Previous placements have seen students work in children’s centres, schools, nurseries, family support teams and more. There is also the opportunity to go on a field trip to Sweden, an international leader in early years practice (additional costs may apply, see course web page for details). You’ll draw on the expertise of lecturers with a wealth of varied professional experience, as you develop your own knowledge and understanding of the complex world surrounding young children and their families. There are also opportunities to improve your employment prospects even further, by undertaking continuing professional development activities and achieving additional qualifications, for example in first aid and child protection. What's more, our Early Childhood Studies course scored 95% for assessment and feedback in the National Student Survey 2024.

At University of Gloucestershire, we’ve been encouraging students to meet every ambition since 1847. Join us and you’ll benefit from our three UoG promises:

– if you are not in a job 6 months after graduating, we’ll guarantee you 6 months of free support post-graduation should you need it, followed by the offer of a paid internship and lifetime career coaching (eligibility conditions apply).

– we guarantee all first-year students accommodation on, or near, the campus you’re studying at.

– whilst at UoG, you’ll find the connections to reach your goals. With over 4,000 placements and more than 60 clubs and societies to join, you’ll make connections for life. Our ambition is boundless. Experienced lecturers promote a real-world ethos and treat our students as more than just a number. Alongside our strong support system, guest speakers, networking events and influential partnerships will help you prepare for life after graduation, whether that be in a successful career in your field or onto further study. Students never tire of finding inspiration here in the unique county of Gloucestershire – innovation and bravery thrive here. Cheltenham and Gloucester offer the best of city and country living, with the rolling hills of the Cotswolds paired with vibrant nightclubs and stunning parks in the bustling town and city centres.

Your story doesn’t end with us at graduation. We support our graduates to balance purpose with ambition, and 95% of University of Gloucestershire graduates are in work or further study within six months of completing their course. Graduate Outcomes Survey published 2024 and based on 2021/22 leavers.