Childhood, Youth & Communities (Top Up)

Study Childhood, Youth & Communities at level 6 and graduate with a full honours degree. This one-year, work-based course, which follows on from our Foundation Degree, enables you to continue in paid employment or volunteering as you work towards this qualification.

Whether you're already working in education, social care, or the voluntary sector, this flexible top-up degree helps you become a confident and impactful practitioner in community support, advocacy, and inclusion.

What you'll learn
• Lead impactful community and advocacy projects that support children, young people, and families.



• Collaborate across services to strengthen inclusive, sustainable partnerships in your sector.



• Investigate key issues like social inequality, media influence, and youth voice.



• Develop leadership, research, and communication skills tailored to real-world professional practice.



• Explore real-world issues such as social justice, children’s rights, community leadership, and inter-agency collaboration.



Co-designed with industry professionals, alumni, and academics, this course blends theory with practical insight. You'll study through evening and occasional weekend sessions, supported by tutors who understand the challenges of balancing work, study, and family.

Whether you're continuing in study from the Foundation Degree, looking to progress in your current role, explore new career paths, or move on to postgraduate study – including teacher training – this top-up degree gives you the opportunity to unlock a wide range of rewarding graduate careers.

91% of our students were satisfied with the teaching in the subject area of Childhood and Youth Studies - National Student Survey 2025

Study options and Location

Twilight:


• Canterbury Campus



• Medway Campus

University isn't just an education, it's the start of your career. At Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU), you'll get to explore a number of exciting career paths, whatever you study.

CCCU is ranked top 5 UK university for employability (Uni Compare Rankings 2026), highlighting its excellent student careers and employability support. The university is home to career-relevant courses and industry-standard facilities. For example, film students can showcase their creativity in the fully equipped film/TV studio, forensics students can test their observational abilities in mock crime scenes, and nursing students can practice their skills in simulated hospital wards.

With a campus in a World Heritage Site, Canterbury is also less than an hour on the train from London and is buzzing with student life. You've got beautiful coast and countryside right on your doorstep, and plenty of opportunities to make friends. With CCCU's range of clubs and societies, including Tennis, Musical Theatre and Dodgeball, you're bound to meet your friends for life.

Click register interest now to secure your place at CCCU this September.