Enter OTP
3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of PortsmouthProgram Overview:
This three-year interdisciplinary program explores the psychological, social, and educational development of children and young people. It is ideal for students interested in working in youth services, education, child psychology, or social care. The degree combines theoretical knowledge with practical insight into the experiences and wellbeing of young people.
Curriculum Structure
Year One
You’ll cover introductory modules in Child Development, Foundations of Psychology, Education and Society, and Research Methods. The year provides a solid grounding in key theories and contexts affecting childhood and youth.
Year Two
In-depth modules explore Adolescence and Identity, Social Policy and Youth Work, and Developmental and Cognitive Psychology. Research skills are enhanced through applied projects focusing on real-world issues impacting young people.
Year Three
Final-year modules include Children’s Rights and Safeguarding, Mental Health in Young People, and an independent Dissertation that allows you to explore a topic of your choice at the intersection of childhood studies and psychology.
Focus areas:
Child development, adolescent psychology, youth mental health, education policy, safeguarding, and wellbeing.
Learning outcomes:
Graduates will be equipped with knowledge of psychological theory and child development alongside policy and practice affecting children and youth. The program fosters analytical, research, and communication skills relevant to multiple sectors.
Professional alignment (accreditation):
While not BPS-accredited, the program supports progression to postgraduate training in education, social work, and youth-focused psychology fields.
Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Portsmouth is known for its practical, career-focused education, with strong links to community youth organisations and education services enhancing graduate employability.
This interdisciplinary programme blends developmental psychology with child and youth development, preparing students for careers supporting young people’s wellbeing and education.
Key practical experiences include:
Graduates gain the skills to work across youth services, education, family support, and early intervention.
Typical roles include:
Youth Support Worker, Early Years Practitioner, Educational Welfare Officer, Behavioural Support Assistant, Community Project Officer
Career and academic support includes:
Further Academic Progression
Many graduates go on to postgraduate study in areas such as Educational Psychology, Social Work, Child and Adolescent Mental Health, or Teaching.
English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.0 with no component score below 5.5.UCAS points - 104-112 points to include a minimum of 2 A levels, or equivalentOptional Foundation or Placement year available.TOEFL - 79 with a minimum of 18 in Reading, 17 in Listening, 20 in Speaking and 17 in Writing.Official academic transcripts and certificates from your previous qualifications (e.g. GCSEs, A‑Levels, or equivalent).English language evidenceA compelling personal statement explaining your interest in psychology and youth studies, any relevant experience (such as volunteering or school work placements), and what you hope to achieve.At least one academic or professional reference, which can be from a teacher or someone who knows your capabilities and experience. Proof of recent academic study (within the last five years) or evidence of readiness for university-level learning—especially if you've been out of education for a while. For international applicants, you will also need a copy of your passport, financial documents (for visa applications), and potentially bank statements or sponsor letters, as part of the student visa process and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Careers advisor or Education link coordinatorYouth workerNursery manager or Early years practitionerFamily support workerMental health support workerEducational welfare officer or teaching assistantSocial care or probation officerCommunity outreach or development officerChild protection practitionerPsychologist (with a postgraduate BPS‑accredited conversion)
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