BA (Hons) Early Childhood

BA (Hons) Early Childhood is designed for those who want to develop their career working with younger children, and gain skills and knowledge around early childhood. Youll understand the steps children take on their learning and developmental journey, and learn how to support them along the way.

You'll focus on how children develop language and child psychology, as well as a broader understanding of educational policy and practice. Youll take part in work-based learning with placement opportunities, during which youll be encouraged to be critically reflective of your own work, as well as observing the practice of other professionals.

On completion you'll gain certification of Graduate Practitioner Competencies at Level 6, which is supported by the Early Childhood Studies Degree Network (ECSDN) and recognised by the Department for Educations Career Progression for the Early Years Workforce. This will qualify you to work as an Early Years Educator and you'll develop a portfolio of evidence of your skills and practice at Level 6 to present to Early Years employers. 

BA (Hons) Early Childhood provides a clear pathway to postgraduate study and to Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) such as a one year fully funded PG Diploma in Early Years with Initial Teacher Training. Or you may progress to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or social work or youth work training.

Make a difference to the lives of young children. Learn how to support child development and education and gain a Level 6 Early Years qualification. BA (Hons) Early Childhood prepares you for a career working with young children in many sectors including education and health.

Entry requirements

Three A-levels at grades CCC or above

Or BTEC triple grades MMM or above

Or Access 23-45 D/M with min 6D

And GCSE English Language at grade 4 or grade C or above

Students with an appropriate Level 5 qualification, such as a foundation degree, are invited to apply for entry to year three of the course

All students applying to Plymouth Marjon University for an Undergraduate programme must have a minimum of GCSE English Language Grade C/4 or an equivalent qualification. The following qualifications are accepted by the University.

You will qualify to work in the Early Years Sector as an Early Years Educator. You can also progress on to early years or primary teaching through a postgraduate qualification (usually PG Diploma with EYITT, PGCE or School Direct).

Other opportunities include community education, integrated services, children’s workforce professionals, care services and social work. Students can also progress to postgraduate psychology courses should they wish to move into the area of child psychology.