Childhood and Youth Studies (English medium) BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Bangor University

Program Overview

The Childhood and Youth Studies (English-medium) BA (Hons) at Bangor University provides students with a thorough understanding of the psychological, social, and educational development of children and young people. It suits individuals who are passionate about supporting children and youth, and who wish to pursue careers in youth work, education, social services, community development, or related fields.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In the first year, students explore foundational concepts including childhood and youth development, early literacy and communication, and the influence of social and family contexts. Modules such as Children and Society and Literacy for Life: Developing Children’s Communication, Language and Literacy introduce students to how children learn and grow in a variety of environments. They also gain early practical insight through observational school or community placements, helping them connect theory with real-world practice.

Year 2
The second year deepens understanding of youth development and social contexts. Students study inclusion, wellbeing, additional learning needs, and the social and emotional factors affecting children and young people. Practical placements continue, enabling students to apply teaching or youth engagement strategies, support diverse learners, and develop confidence in planning and delivering activities for children in educational or community settings.

Year 3
In the final year, students specialise and integrate their learning through advanced modules addressing topics such as working with vulnerable children, youth development policy, and interventions in community or educational settings. They also have opportunities to undertake research projects or extended practical placements, applying academic knowledge to real-world challenges and preparing for professional roles after graduation.

Focus Areas
“Child development · Youth wellbeing · Early literacy & communication · Inclusion & diversity · Family & community support · Education and youth engagement”

Learning Outcomes
“Understand the psychological, social, and educational development of children and young people; assess and respond to diverse learning and wellbeing needs; plan and implement activities in educational and community settings; apply theory to practice through placements; develop professional skills for careers in youth work, social care, education, or community services.”

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
The programme equips graduates for careers involving children and young people, including youth work, social services, education support, and community-based roles. Its practical and academic balance ensures graduates are well-prepared for employment or further study in relevant fields.

Reputation (Employability & Suitability)
Bangor University’s Childhood and Youth Studies programme is recognised for its strong student satisfaction and the quality of its practical placements. Graduates are valued by employers for their combination of theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and understanding of contemporary issues affecting children and youth.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the English-medium Childhood and Youth Studies programme combine academic learning with practical experience. From early in the degree, placements and community-based projects allow students to apply theory in real-world contexts, gaining insight into childhood and youth development.

Students benefit from:

Work placements in schools, youth centres, or community organisations, providing hands-on experience supporting children and young people.
Educational visits and field projects that link modules on development, socialisation, and wellbeing to practical observations.
Group projects and collaborative assignments, fostering teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.
Access to digital research tools and databases to support evidence-based study of children, young people, and social contexts.

Academic Structure & Curriculum Depth

The programme covers child development, youth studies, education, social inclusion, wellbeing, and policy. Modules focus on child growth, learning, socialisation, family and community influences, and contemporary issues affecting children and young people.

This curriculum prepares graduates for work in educational, social, and community settings, equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

What Sets This Programme Apart

Emphasis on practical placements alongside academic study, ensuring graduates are practice-ready.
Opportunities to develop transferable skills in research, advocacy, and project management.
Preparation for careers in education, youth work, social services, or community development.
Support from university tutors and placement mentors throughout the programme enhances learning and professional development.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the Childhood and Youth Studies (English-medium) BA (Hons) program at Bangor University are equipped to work with children and young people in educational, social, and community settings. They typically pursue careers in youth work, community education, social services, or support roles in child development:

University Career Services: Bangor University’s Careers and Employability Service provides guidance on career planning, CV preparation, interview coaching, and access to graduate schemes in youth work, education, and social services.
Employment statistics & salary: Graduates often secure employment within six months of completing the program. Entry-level positions in youth work, community education, and social services offer starting salaries around £20,000–£25,000, with growth potential through experience and specialization.
University–industry partnerships: The program includes placements with local schools, youth centres, and community organizations, providing hands-on experience and networking opportunities with professionals in the sector.
Long-term accreditation value: The degree provides recognized qualifications that support professional development in youth and community services.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates are prepared for careers in youth work, community education, social services, and roles supporting children and young people’s development.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates may continue their studies with postgraduate programs in childhood and youth studies, social work, education, or community development, enhancing their expertise and opening pathways to advanced roles in educational and social service sectors.