Early Childhood Studies

• 21st for Satisfied with Teaching for Education –The Guardian University Guide 2025 (Education League Table)

Our Early Childhood Studies degree is ideal if you’re looking to work with children and babies from birth to the age of eight.

You will gain a broad understanding of the professional issues that underpin the care and education of young children as well as increasing your understanding and awareness of the rapidly evolving nature of early years provision around the world. You will cover children’s development and learning in the context of the family and the community, as well as wider national and international settings. Paediatric First Aid training is included as part of the course and you will have the opportunity to complete the Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies.

This course includes placements in each year which allows you to put your academic learning into practice giving you real, practical knowledge that will be invaluable in your future career.

You will benefit from specialist sessions with professionals in the fields of special educational needs, social work, cultural diversity and creative and therapeutic approaches.

This degree is excellent preparation for any leadership role in an Early Years setting. It is also a strong foundation for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), Early Years Teacher Status (0-5) or the School Direct route into teaching.

NSS*

• 100% of final year BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies students at The University of Northampton agreed they were satisfied with the course

• 95% go on to work and / or study within 15 months after the course

• 100% Staff are good at explaining things

• 94% Staff have made the subject interesting

• 100% The course is intellectually stimulating

BWhy choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost**, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information
✱✱ Eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information

Course Modules

Stage 1

• Children’s Health and Wellbeing (Compulsory)

• Professional Practice in Early Childhood 1 (Compulsory)

• Personal, Academic and Professional Development 1 (Compulsory)

• The Developing Professional (Compulsory)

• Child Development (Compulsory)

• Ethical Approaches to Early Childhood (Compulsory)

Stage 2

• Safeguarding and Child Protection (Compulsory)

• Promoting Children’s Development (Compulsory)

• Professional Practice in Early Childhood 2 (Compulsory)

• Creative and Therapeutic Approaches (Compulsory)

• Special Educational Needs and Disability (Compulsory)

• Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood (Compulsory)

Stage 3

• Dissertation (Compulsory)

• Research and Inquiry in Professional Contexts (Compulsory)

• Graduate Practitioner Practice (Compulsory)

• Specialist Option: Health and Social Care (Designated)

• Professional Pedagogy in Early Childhood Education and Care (Designated)

• Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies (Designated)

• Early Years Leadership and Management (Compulsory)

Module information is quoted for 2026 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.

There are no exams on this course. Instead, you will complete written assignments, presentations, projects, posters and professional development portfolios.