BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies (Graduate Practitioner)

Why Early Childhood Studies at ARU?

• Join a course that ranked 13th in the UK in the Guardian University Guide 2025.
• 95% for “Learning resources” (National Student Survey 2024).
• 95% for “Communication of mental well-being support” (National Student Survey 2024).
• Gain a globally recognised degree qualification.
• Learn on placements to gain experience in a variety of early years settings.
• Gain additional experience though volunteering and work experience.
• Save time and money with an accelerated degree and demonstrate the drive to succeed.

You’ll grow your understanding of professional and inclusive practice and how you can develop a rewarding career supporting babies, toddlers, young children and families in a variety of early years settings.

You’ll study the latest theories, issues and approaches in education, and put your new knowledge into practice on placement. You’ll develop as a professional and Early Childhood practitioner and build your leadership skills.

If you've already completed a foundation degree (or equivalent), you can gain a full honours degree in just one or two years with our Top-Up options via distance learning.

This accelerated course is delivered via blended learning, which means you can study in your own time, around your other commitments. You'll join your tutors and peers on campus for three full days each trimester, and we'll offer additional workshops and guest lectures to complement your studies.

Using our learning management system, Canvas, you'll access a comprehensive range of study resources and take part in optional online workshops with the Course Director. You'll also be fully supported with advice and regular feedback from our expert tutors.

What can you do with a degree in Early Childhood Studies?

Guided by the Early Years Professional Framework, we work with employers to ensure our BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies will give you the knowledge, skills and abilities that they need.

You’ll be qualified to work in any registered setting in England, including nurseries and pre-schools, and with additional training you could also consider a career in educational psychology or social work.

You’ll complete at least 80 placement days over the three years of the course (25 in Year 2, 30 in Year 2 and 25 in Year 3), helping you hone your skills and get hands-on practical experience. Our dedicated Placement Coordinator will be on hand to help you source your placements. If you study by distance learning, and are already working in a relevant environment, you can usually complete your placement days with your current employer.

When you graduate, you might decide to continue on to a Masters course, such as one of our MA Education degrees, which include options to specialise in leadership and management, SEND, and Montessori settings, or our PGCE. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship to get 20% off your fees.