Childhood Studies (Youthwork Pathway) BA (Hons) top-up BA (Hons)

The Childhood Studies (Youthwork Pathway) BA (Hons) top-up is designed for experienced practitioners seeking to complete an honours degree while continuing to work in youthwork, informal education, and related services. This Level 6 programme develops advanced, research-informed understanding of childhood and youth within social, cultural, political, and policy contexts, enabling students to critically analyse and reflect on contemporary youth and community practice.<br/><br/>You will engage with modules such as Becoming a Researcher, Leading Change, and optional units including Youth Justice & Social Policy and Critical Youth Work, exploring issues that shape young people’s lives and the delivery of inclusive, ethical youth services. The programme emphasises independent research, culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates methodological rigour, sustained critical argument, and relevance to professional practice.<br/><br/>Alongside academic study, the course strengthens leadership, reflective practice, and professional capabilities, equipping students to lead quality improvement initiatives and evidence-based approaches in youthwork and informal education settings.<br/><br/>This top-up degree provides a flexible, locally accessible route for practitioners, combining academic challenge with practical relevance. Graduates leave with the knowledge, research expertise, and professional insight needed to advance careers in youth services, community organisations, outreach programmes, or to pursue postgraduate study in youthwork, education, or social policy.<br/><br/>Modules/Highlights:<br/>• Becoming a Researcher <br/>• Leading Change <br/>• Dissertation <br/>• Critical Youth York (optional) <br/>• Youth Justice & Social Policy (optional)<br/><br/>Start Date<br/>September 2026<br/><br/>Progression<br/>On successful completion of the course, students can progress into employment, to roles relating to the childhood and youthwork sector.<br/><br/>Career Opportunities:<br/>Youth Worker, Youth Engagement Officer, Youth Justice Officer, Youth Project Manager