Education, Early Childhood & Youth

This course is a route to a professional qualification validated by the National Youth Agency (JNC national qualification).

How you learn

You study for a JNC qualification at postgraduate level by combining practice and academic work. Our students develop an understanding of the relationship between evidence, management and policy in youth work practice, and use 600 hours of fieldwork practice to demonstrate competence. You can choose to obtain the professional qualification by completing taught modules up to postgraduate diploma standard successfully, or go on to obtain a master's award and the professional qualification by completing the dissertation.

How you are assessed

Assessment reflects the practical skills of youth and community work. There are essays to write, modelling the report and analysis skills of workers, including a series of concise essays. There is a community study showing the ability to investigate, record and analyse the needs of young people in an area and propose youth work methods in alignment with those evidenced needs. There are portfolios of practice to demonstrate and reflect on competence, these are typical of the sector's approach to learning and qualification. Finally you write a dissertation to show a thorough investigation and explanation of a particular issue. There are no examinations.

Career opportunities

This MSc has an excellent employment record with former students working in youth services of local authorities, voluntary agencies, health authorities, schools and colleges, the criminal justice system, social services, outdoor pursuits and play work. The level of qualification and insights into young people’s lives are game changing in interviews for jobs.

Entry requirements

• Applicants will normally have a 2.2 honours degree.
• Applicants with other qualifications and experience may be considered if they can show their ability to study at master's level.
• The suitability of applicants without the normal entry qualifications will be assessed by an essay at degree level.
• All applicants will have a minimum of 12-months' full-time (or equivalent) experience of youth work.
• Applicants must have an Enhanced Criminal Records Bureau disclosure.
• We interview all applicants so that they can find out more about the course. Offers are only made after interview.

For additional information please see the undergraduate and postgraduate entry requirements in our admissions section

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