About the course

This course is aimed specifically for those wanting to work with children and/or families, giving you the skills and knowledge to pursue or develop your career across a range of associated work settings. It runs alongside our MA Childhood, Youth and Family Studies: Youth Work Pathway

The course provides a broad level of understanding relevant to areas such as early years; nursery worker or manager; family support worker or manager; child protection; and pastoral support roles in primary education.

You start by studying core areas, looking at the range of experiences children, young people and families may have; how professionals involved may be best placed to respond; effective and ethical practice; and the relevant theoretical frameworks that underpin practice. You can then follow your interests with a choice of optional units while building your research skills in preparation for your final research project.

Why choose this course?

• Explore the theory, practice, research and policy that underpins children’s, youth and family services
• Build your evidence-based knowledge and skills and learn to apply them to changing childhood contexts
• Explore the cultural and social constructions of childhood, youth and families, and the impact they have on children and young people’s everyday lives
• Develop your understanding of children’s rights; the ideologies of welfare; the responsibilities for welfare; and their practical application
• Challenge yourself by undertaking an independent research project in a subject area of interest
• Learn from research-active academics who publish frequently, including books and articles in world-leading academic journals, and also feature regularly in local and national media