This BA in Childhood Studies will train you in the diverse and fascinating subject of Childhood Studies, which draws on the disciplines of psychology, sociology and education. You will investigate the crucial areas of child study, including early years education, psychological development and the rights of the child. This course will equip you for work in any profession connected to child care, development, education and protection. As you study, you will consider the theoretical principles of the subject and evaluate them in the light of social history, contemporary legislation and the latest best practice. You will explore the social, emotional and cognitive development of children, and scrutinise the methods used for measuring child development.

Your BA in Childhood Studies can prepare you for a broad range of employment and further training options. You will be a strong candidate for work or further study towards becoming a child psychotherapist, an early years teacher, a learning mentor, a teacher (or special educational needs teacher), or social worker. Many Childhood Studies graduates progress immediately to further study, typically gaining a teaching qualification (PGCE). All Aberystwyth Childhood Studies graduates are usually guaranteed an interview to follow the primary PGCE taught in the North and Mid Wales Centre of Teacher Education, subject to meeting all other requirements. Throughout your training you will develop a wealth of core child-specialist skills and other, more generic skills that can be easily transferred into almost any graduate or professional employment situation. You will be able to show a comprehensive understanding of major learning theories; respond critically to contemporary arguments; reflect upon your own practice as a working professional; evaluate the aims and impact of social policies; and consider the subject from multiple positions, such as from gender and cross-cultural perspectives.