Childhood and Youth Studies (English medium)

Highlights

Childhood and Youth Studies staff are professionals with academic expertise in diverse areas, such as children’s rights, family law, bilingualism, education, social care, mental health, literacy, additional learning needs and inclusion. Teaching is informed by internationally renowned research. From anti-bullying and whole-school positive behaviour to developing literacy and numeracy or supporting refugees, it is changing lives for the better.

Annual children's voice conference for primary and secondary schools. Recently, we considered the influence of technology on children, and the benefits and concerns about digital technology on children and young people’s emotional and physical health and wellbeing. There is a strong emphasis on employability throughout the program, offering students the opportunity to network with leading providers in children’s services, develop skills as diverse as filmmaking for young people or communicating with children with learning difficulties.

Part of this course can be studied in Welsh, and we offer a version taught entirely in Welsh (UCAS code X314), which is ideal for those wishing to work in Wales and/or through the medium of Welsh. Financial incentives are available for those students who would like to study part or all their degree in Welsh. Bangor University achieved 96% Overall Satisfaction for Childhood & Youth Studies in the National Student Survey 2025.

Course overview

This BA (Hons) Childhood and Youth Studies is designed for students who want to work with and support children and young people, or are interested in learning about issues that affect them. It examines the full spectrum of childhood and youth experiences from conception to the transition to adulthood. This includes adolescence, children’s rights, development, learning, play, identity, safeguarding, mental health and diversity.

At Bangor University, our teaching team has expertise and backgrounds in psychology, sociology, children’s rights, linguistics, education, forensics, health and welfare. Their insight and experiences prepare you to listen to what children and young people have to say. You will be encouraged to adopt an approach that firmly places these individuals at its centre.

We place a strong emphasis on developing your employability. Regular formal, and informal, peer-led oral presentations help build your confidence in public speaking, while educational visits and guest speakers give you a head start building and engaging with professional networks. Previous visits have ranged from a prison to a special educational needs school.

Past guest lectures have included a children’s TV producer who shared how techniques are used in both current affairs and drama-based programming to raise and address key issues that affect children and young people. You will be able to learn both theoretical and practical skills in supporting children and young people, including supporting children with additional learning needs and communication difficulties by accessing opportunities to learn communication support techniques. Read more Course options

Placement year

What is the Placement Year? This exciting opportunity allows you to spend a year working with a self-sourced, professional organisation relevant to your studies. You'll typically start between June and September of your second year and finish by the following June or September.

Placements can be UK-based or even overseas. Why choose a Placement Year? Gain practical experience that complements your academic learning Make valuable industry contacts that could open doors for future careers Strengthen your employability by gaining real-world experience.

How does the Placement Year work? With dedicated support from your Academic School and our Careers and Employability Services, you will be fully equipped to find the perfect placement to complement your degree. We will guide you through the process of securing and finalising your placement…