Youth and Community Studies

The Youth and Community Studies - FdA (Full-Time) programme is designed to empower you with the skills, knowledge and practical experience to thrive in a rewarding career in youth and community work. The course bridges theoretical insights with real world application, enabling students to understand the complexities of modern youth culture, community dynamics, and the structural challenges faced by young people. The curriculum is structured across two levels (Level 4 and Level 5) covering foundational and advanced topics that emphasise personal and professional development. Through a blend of academic study and work-based learning, students gain insights into youth sociology, health and wellbeing, and cultural evolution, preparing them to address the diverse needs of young people (age 11 to 25) and their communities. This programme ensures graduates are equipped with the essential knowledge, practical skills, and confidence needed to succeed in youth and community work. By combining academic learning with applied study, students develop a professional mindset and a readiness to address real world challenges effectively .This course is ideal for individuals passionate about making a positive impact on young people and their communities. It suits aspiring youth workers, community advocates, career changers, recent graduates, and professionals seeking to enhance their qualifications. Designed for those eager to understand the social, cultural, and economic factors shaping youth and community dynamics, the programme appeals to those motivated to address issues like inequality and social exclusion while developing innovative solutions for evolving community needs. Whether starting fresh or building on experience, this course equips students to create meaningful change. Graduates of the FdA programme can progress onto the BA (Hons) Youth and Community Studies (Top-up degree)* subject to validation. Graduates of the Youth and Community Studies FdA programme are well equipped to pursue a variety of fulfilling career paths in youth work, community development, and social services. These include: Youth Worker, Community Development Officer, Faith Based Youth Worker, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator, Charity Youth Worker, Social Support Worker, Education Liaison Officer, Youth Justice Worker, Policy Advisor or Advocate.

Year One: Academic Study Skills, Personal Development, Developing Youth Community Work, Sociology of Youth and Community Studies, Young People's Health, Wellbeing and Identity, Work Related Learning, Youth Culture and Evolving Communities. Year Two: Research Methods in Youth and Community Work, Sociological Approaches to Inequality in the Youth Community. Professional Development, Young People's Health and Well-Being in the Community, Global Perspectives on Youth and Culture, Work Based Learning.

Students engage in a combination of: Lectures and seminars, Practical and group activities, Independent and guided research. Real-world work shadowing.