Alternatively, you could explore options across the early years, health and social care sectors.
A foundation degree in Early Years in Education can open up opportunities across education, health and social care. Depending on the role, some further training may be involved. Career options include:
Develop your knowledge and understanding of child development, learning, communication and play.
Throughout the course you'll also reflect on your own role as an early years professional, and learn about conducting research with, and about, younger children.
Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.
You’ll show your progress through written work, including essays, reflective diaries, patchwork texts, reports, presentations, web discussions and your professional development portfolio.
We’ll also check your progress regularly to make sure you’re achieving milestones, and offer any extra support you need.
This course is studied online, with placements in years 2 and 3.
You'll complete 25 placement days in Year 2, and 30 placement days in Year 3.
There'll be times when you study two modules simultaneously during a trimester. Our tutors will help you to manage your workload and assessment deadlines.
Please contact us if you'd like to discuss the pacing of this course and the options available to you. Email [email protected] or call 01245 686707.
48 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 2 A Levels (or equivalent).
2 GCSEs at grade C, or grade 4, or above in English.
Applicants should have experience working in the Early Years sector.
If English is not your first language you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.0 (Academic level) or equivalent English Language qualification, as recognised by Anglia Ruskin University.
Alternatives
UCAS Tariff points acquired from BTEC Level 3 Diplomas are accepted.
Access to HE Diplomas at overall Pass grade are accepted.
Level 3 Childcare qualification.
UCAS Tariff points from the Irish Leaving Certificate are accepted.
UCAS Tariff points from Scottish Highers are accepted.
UCAS Tariff points from Scottish Advanced Highers are accepted.
Important additional notes
Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements.
Other equivalent qualifications may be accepted for entry to this course; please email [email protected] for further information. Applicants to undergraduate courses can also check our information about undergraduate entry qualifications.
You'll need a computer and reliable internet access to successfully engage with your course.
You will need to provide evidence that a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance has been undertaken.
If you have lived outside of the UK for 6 months or more within the last 5 years, then you will need to provide a police check from the country/countries previously resided in.
If you are completing placements overseas you will be required to obtain a police check/certificate of good conduct from the relevant country.
Fees and funding
£11,800Distance learning students starting 2026/27 (total cost)
Paying your tuition fees If you're a UK student, you don't need the money to pay for university now.
If you accept an offer to study at university, you can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan to cover your course fees.
Both full-time and part-time students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan. You'll start repaying the loan in the April after you graduate.
EU, EEA and Swiss nationals benefiting from citizens’ rights under the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement.
Accredited Prior Learning may reduce the tuition fees. This will be confirmed after you've submitted your application.
For military students: you can use your ELCs towards this course. ARU is a recognised ELCAS provider (number 1007). Please contact your Learning Centre for details of ELC, eligibility and how to apply.
Olivia Boulter
Stacy Randall
Kaya Barnetson