Childhood Studies

Become a champion for children and young people as you strive to make a difference in their lives.

Not all children and young people get the support and nurturing they need to fully develop into thriving adults. However, childhood professionals can offer them a lifeline. It’s their job to step in, understand their development needs and deliver the necessary interventions so they can be all they can be.

This inspiring and forward-thinking degree opens the door to a fulfilling career working with children and young people. You’ll develop a rich and meaningful understanding of childhood and youth and the expertise to make a difference.

You’ll explore how childhood and youth are understood across different cultures, societies and communities, and what this means for children’s everyday experiences. With a strong child and youth‑centred ethos, your course gives you the capabilities to recognise, value and amplify the voices of children and young people on the issues that matter most to them.

Your learning journey offers you a comprehensive understanding in four dynamic and interconnected themes: research, child development, children’s rights, and social justice and policy.

If you’re passionate about supporting children and young people, this course will empower you to become a strong and effective advocate for them.

"The degree has allowed me to explore different avenues, and I am now looking to pursue a career in social work, working with children regularly."

Chiara Creates, BA (Hons) Childhood Studies

Why study at Leeds

• A world-renowned School: Study in our world-ranked School of Education alongside staff and students from across the globe.

• Expert tutors: Learn from influential academics who are experts in important disciplines including education, psychology, sociology and social policy.

• Engage with the debate: Examine some of the fundamental issues concerning childhood and youth, both in the UK and internationally.

• Get hand-on expertise: Gain valuable practical experience, with the opportunity to work alongside teachers or education professionals in your second and final year.

• Unique experiences: Get the opportunity to study abroad or undertake a work placement.

Rankings and awards

• Top 100 in the world for Education and Training, QS World Rankings by Subject 2026

• 1st in the UK for Childhood and Youth Studies, The Complete University Guide 2026

Where this degree could take you
Your course equips you with the in-depth theory and practical knowledge to thrive as a childhood practitioner, allowing you to address the experiences, lives and education of children within a globalised world.

This expertise will give you access to various career paths and popular graduate career destinations, shaping policy and practice around childhood and youth. These include roles in early years provision, social work, primary school teaching and teaching assistant roles.

Many graduates choose to pursue postgraduate study in the School of Education after completing their undergraduate degree, like MA Childhood Studies, or through teacher training with our School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) partners, Red Kite. Others also take up work in the charity sector, within local authorities and in the Civil Service.

"It offers a holistic approach to understanding children and young people, and the future career possibilities with this course are abundant."

Pratichya Gurung, BA (Hons) Childhood Studies

Careers support
Top 10 most targeted for 10+ years by the UK's leading employers, The Graduate Market 2026, High Fliers Research

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one.

Our Careers Service has the global expertise and sector-spanning industry partnerships that, combined, go way beyond simply helping you get a job. They provide you with the resources you need to upskill and achieve the future you aspire towards – even in the face of lightning-paced change.