Childhood Studies (Early Years Pathway) top-up

Course Overview
The BA (Hons) Childhood Studies (Early Years Pathway) top-up is designed for experienced practitioners seeking to complete an honours degree while continuing to work in early years settings. This Level 6 programme builds on prior learning to develop a critical, research-informed understanding of childhood, early years practice, and the social, political, and ethical contexts that influence children’s lives.

Students engage with modules such as The Evolution of Childhood, Child Health, Wellbeing & Inequality, and Leading Change, exploring contemporary issues in early childhood education and care. The programme also develops independent research skills through the Becoming a Researcher module and the dissertation, emphasising methodological rigour, ethical practice, and evidence-based approaches.

The course strengthens professional capabilities, enabling students to critically evaluate and improve the quality of practice in early years settings. It promotes reflective, ethical, and inclusive approaches to leadership, curriculum development, and child-centered practice, equipping students to make a positive impact on children’s learning and development.

This top-up degree provides a flexible, locally accessible route for practitioners, combining academic challenge with practical relevance. Graduates leave with the knowledge, research expertise, and professional insight to advance careers in early years education, leadership roles, policy or consultancy positions, or to pursue further postgraduate study.

Level 6 Modules:
The Evolution of Childhood
Child Health, Wellbeing & Inequality
Becoming a Researcher
Leading Change
Dissertation

Important Links:
Click HERE for the programme specification.
For a full list of the University Centre’s regulations and policies please click HERE.
Click HERE for The Open University Regulations for Validated Awards.
Click HERE for the University Centre Terms & Conditions.

Start Date
September 2026

Progression
On successful completion of the course, students can progress into employment, to roles relating to the early years sector.

Career Opportunities:
Early Years Manager, SEN/Inclusion Lead, Child Development Officer, Curriculum or Quality Improvement Officer

Level 6 Modules:

The Evolution of Childhood
Child Health, Wellbeing & Inequality
Becoming a Researcher
Leading Change
Dissertation

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

• Course does not award QTS