BA (Hons) Psychology and Early Childhood Studies

The BA (Hons) Psychology and Early Childhood Studies at the University of Derby gives you a rich understanding of how children think, grow, and develop — both from a psychological and educational perspective. It’s ideal for students who are passionate about working with children and families, supporting early learning, or pursuing careers in education, health, or child psychology.

From the very first year, your learning will combine theory with practice. You’ll explore how young minds develop and learn, supported by practical experience, research projects, and access to Derby’s specialist psychology and early years facilities.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded throughout the course:

• Specialist psychology laboratories: Learn in dedicated spaces such as observation rooms and developmental psychology labs, equipped with tools for studying cognitive, emotional, and social development in children.

• Early years experience: Engage with nurseries, schools, or community childcare settings through observational visits and work-based learning modules that connect theory to real-life early education practice.

• Research and data analysis projects: Develop your skills in experimental design, qualitative and quantitative research, and ethical study of children’s development.

• Independent dissertation: In your final year, you’ll carry out your own research project — for example, exploring topics like play-based learning, attachment, or early intervention strategies.

• Group projects and seminars: Collaborate with peers on child development case studies, education-based problem-solving, and presentations that enhance communication and teamwork skills.

• Guest lectures and professional insights: Learn from early years practitioners, child psychologists, and researchers who share practical insights from their work in child development and education.

• Access to expert facilities: You’ll have full use of the University’s advanced psychology labs, early childhood resources, digital learning environments, and the library’s comprehensive child development and psychology collections.

Why this course stands out

• Combines psychological science with early childhood practice, preparing you for careers in education, early intervention, or child and family services.

• Provides hands-on learning through research projects, practical placements, and use of specialist laboratories.

• Develops key skills in observation, data analysis, communication, and child assessment.

• Encourages an interdisciplinary perspective, connecting psychology with real-world early childhood education challenges.

• Supported by experienced lecturers with backgrounds in child psychology, early learning, and developmental research.

The BA (Hons) Psychology and Early Childhood Studies at the University of Derby is a perfect blend of two impactful disciplines — exploring how children develop, learn, and grow, alongside a deep understanding of human behaviour and psychological principles. This joint degree prepares you for a range of rewarding careers that support children’s learning, emotional well-being, and overall development. Graduates often pursue roles such as early years practitioner, child development researcher, learning and development officer, or educational psychologist assistant.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

• University services: The University of Derby offers strong employability support through personal academic tutoring, psychology laboratories, and early childhood practice placements. You’ll have access to research-led teaching and real-world experiences through the University’s psychology and education networks.

• Employment stats and salary figures: A large percentage of graduates from related Derby programmes are employed or in further study within 15 months of graduation. Starting salaries for roles in early years and developmental psychology typically range from £22,000–£27,000, with opportunities for progression in education, research, or specialist support roles.

• University–industry partnerships: You’ll gain valuable experience through placements in nurseries, schools, and community settings, helping you apply theory to practice and build professional confidence.

• Long-term accreditation value: Depending on your chosen pathway, you may graduate with eligibility for British Psychological Society (BPS) accreditation — a recognised mark of quality that enhances your career prospects in psychology and related fields.

• Graduation outcomes: You’ll develop transferable skills in communication, research, and critical thinking, preparing you for careers across education, childcare, psychology, and social support sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you can advance to postgraduate study in areas such as Educational Psychology, Child and Adolescent Development, or Counselling. Many graduates also pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) to qualify as teachers, or continue with a Master’s or Doctorate in Psychology to become a chartered psychologist or academic researcher.