Early Childhood Studies (Graduate Practitioner) BA (Hons) top-up

Undergraduate degree

Progress your career working with young children and achieve your Early Childhood Studies qualification in just one year with our flexible online top-up degree. Supported online learning lets you fit your studies around your existing commitments.

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Key facts about your online degree

How you'll study

This course is studied online but does include a work placement

Application deadline

Our next deadline is 27th May 2026

Course length

Choose to study over 1 or 2 years

Fees: £5,900

Payment plans available

Start dates

Start in September

Gold Standard Education

Gold rated for Teaching Excellence (2023)

Course overview

This early years top up degree enables you to transform your existing Foundation Degree into a full BA Honours qualification, building on your experience in the early years sector and enriching your role as you learn. Delivered online over one or two years, it offers flexibility for those working, or wishing to work, as teaching assistants, early years nursery workers or play workers.

The course includes a mandatory work placement, which can be completed within your current Early Years (0–8 years) setting or arranged separately, giving you the chance to apply theory directly to practice. With the support of a mentor, you’ll complete work-based activities and develop a professional development portfolio that reflects your growth and experience. Expert tutors with sector knowledge will guide your progress as you study independently and in small groups through our online Learning Management System.

By linking theory with practice, this childhood studies top up degree strengthens your analytical, communication and leadership skills, supporting your progression towards postgraduate study or wider career opportunities in early childhood education. The course has professional recognition, taking into account both the Children's Workforce Development Council and the Early Years Professional Framework.

If you don’t already have a relevant Foundation Degree we also offer this course as a full Early Childhood Studies BA (Hons).

Why choose this course?

Supported online learning offers flexibility around work and life
Ranked 13th in the country by the Guardian League Table 2025
Expert tutors with hands-on experience in the education sector
Practical placement provides valuable real-world experience
Designed to build on existing early years training and qualifications
Gold-standard teaching, learning and student support (TEF 2023)

What you’ll gain

Enhanced academic, practical and reflective skills
Ability to link theory with practice in early years settings
Strong critical thinking and analytical skills
Improved communication and teamwork abilities
Leadership competencies for career progression
Confidence to take on greater challenges or postgraduate study

Next application deadline: 27th May 2026

Course modules and assessments

Modules

Children's Rights

This module is based upon a critical exploration of children's rights with the focus on rights to education, protection, human rights and participation. The legal position of children has been enhanced by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) 1989 to encompass principles of protection, provision of services and participation. However, not all children's lives are the same and it is important that students of early childhood develop a broader perspective by using evidence from international and national contexts. Successful completion of this module will be relevant to your future employment in voluntary and statutory agencies working with young children.

Interdisciplinary Perspectives

This module will offer an overview of childhood from a range of academic perspectives – geographical, historical, philosophical, psychological, sociological, educational and economic – to enable you to explore how childhood is constituted and what this means for children in contemporary society. It aims to do two things. Firstly, it aims to broaden your knowledge base, setting your understanding of children within wider cultural contexts. Secondly, it aims to encourage a deeper and up-to-date understanding of some key concepts introduced earlier in the course so that you complete the degree with a true level 6 understanding of issues affecting children. The module content is organised around key academic disciplines to ensure a comprehensive coverage of new and more detailed material but teaching will be around key themes within this framework.

Early Childhood Graduate Competencies

To help you meet the Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies, you’ll study this module across all years of your degree. You’ll take part in 80 days of placement and reflect on your experiences. The Graduate Practitioner is an advocate for young children’s rights and participation and recognise that young children are active co-constructors of their own learning. As a Graduate Practitioner you’ll apply high-level academic knowledge of pedagogy and research evidence, of the holistic development of infants and young children (0-8), in a practice context that is respectful of the child, their family and community. This qualification will make you workplace ready with EYFS, when you graduate.

Leading Change in Early Childhood Contexts

Together we’ll explore how to deal with complex change, with a focus on desired outcomes. You’ll examine how education and care is provided, to review issues of how we can better meet the needs of young children in leading change in an early childhood context. We’ll look at working in partnerships and interdisciplinary working, and the challenges that these can present. Fostering your self-development, you’ll evaluate your professional growth and reflect on your experiences. This learning links to the Level 6 Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies.

Early Childhood Leadership and Management

Building on the principle that good quality in early years provision requires creative and effective leaders who are able to manage resources and foster effective team development. You’ll examine the context in which education and care is provided to review issues of how we can work better to meet the needs of young children. The issues concerning provision in terms of quality and providing equality of opportunity for all children will be explored from philosophical and theoretical leadership perspectives in early childhood. We’ll provide an opportunity to critically review the application of theory to practice to further your understanding of leadership and management in an early childhood context. Your learning will be linked to the Early Childhood Graduate Practitioner Competencies at Level 6.

Into ARU

Entering third level education is exciting; but it can also be a daunting experience. At ARU, we want all students to make the most of the opportunities Higher Education provides, so they reach their potential, become lifelong learners and find fulfilling careers. However, we appreciate that the shift from secondary education, or a return to formal education is quite a journey.

This module is designed to ease that transition. You’ll be enrolled on it as soon as you receive an offer from ARU so you can begin to learn about university life before your course starts. Through Into ARU, you will explore a virtual land modelled around ARU values: Courage, Innovation, Community, Integrity, Responsibility, and Ambition. This innovative module is designed as a game, where students collect knowledge and various complete mini tasks. You’ll proceed at your own pace, though we expect all students to have completed they’re Into ARU exploration by week 6. Students who, for whatever reason, are unable to complete by that date, will be signposted to existing services so that we can be confident that they are supported.

Modules are subject to change and availability.

How you’ll be assessed

You'll be assessed in a range of ways which are designed to support the professional skills you need within the workforce. These include observations, patchwork texts, presentations, case studies, portfolios, posters, investigations, reports and essays.

How you'll study

100% Online study

Dedicated support

Study online and graduate on campus

Our Early Childhood Studies (top-up) BA (Hons) is studied predominantly online, but you’ll also take part in 30 days of placement. If you are not currently working in a relevant setting, we will help you find a suitable work placement.

You’ll study through Canvas, our world-class online Learning Management System (LMS), which can be accessed from your phone, PC, or tablet, both at home or on the move. Canvas provides instant access to study materials, forums, and support from tutors and classmates, as well as enabling easy submission of your assignments.

You can choose to study our BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies top up degree over 1 or 2 years. Please note that if you choose the 1-year option this is the equivalent of full-time study and may be a challenge if you’re employed full-time or have other life commitments. Our advisers will be happy to talk through your options in more detail.

On successful completion of your studies, you’ll be invited to attend a graduation ceremony on campus. If attending the ceremony in person is not possible then we’ll arrange to have your certificate sent to you.

Entry requirements

What you’ll need to start this course

A Foundation Degree (or other recognised Level 5 qualification) in Early Years Education*

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 ARU

A current Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) is required. You will need to provide evidence that a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance has been undertaken.

Qualifications may also be considered for Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL).

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

As a distance learner, you'll also need a suitable computer with internet connection, together with sufficient IT competence to make effective use our online learning management system (LMS) with high-speed internet and email.

*We are unable to accept previously achieved credit from the City & Guilds Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for the Children and Young People's Workforce - Early Years (Advanced Practice) qualification as it doesn’t provide the pre-requisite 240 credits. You would first need to complete our Early Years and Education FdA course and then you can automatically progress to this top-up course to complete your degree.

Please note: 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 contact us for further information.

Fees and Funding

Fees

The full tuition fee for this childhood studies top up degree is £5,900.

The tuition fees you pay each year for the full Early Childhood Studies (top-up) BA (Hons) will be between £2,950 and £5,900 depending on the length of study. The course is studied over 1 or 2 years.

Accredited prior learning may reduce the tuition fees. This will be confirmed once your application has been submitted.

Funding

Government-backed part time student loans are available to cover the cost of studying this course. These are subject to eligibility and terms and conditions.

We offer payment by instalments, so you can spread the cost of studying with us.

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.

For more information on how you fund your studies please see our funding page.

What our students say

0%

of our Alumni would recommend studying with ARU Distance Learning

0%

found studying via distance learning either ‘very accessible’ or ‘quite accessible’

0%

felt ‘much more confident’ or 'more confident’ at work

2026 Alumni survey with 268 respondents

Meet Early Childhood Studies Student Jess

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Meet Early Childhood Studies student Jessica

Jessica, a Nursery Nurse from Essex chose our BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies to grow in confidence, step up in her career and achieve her full potential in the Early Years sector. Studying by distance learning means she can balance work, study and balance life as a new mum.

The course has benefitted my career. The confidence I have taken from completing my modules to a high standard has translated to confidence in performing my duties at work.

Jacob, Early Years Alumni

Read Jacob's story

ARU is a well-established, internationally recognised University. I chose to do a degree here to improve my career opportunities and personal aspirations of becoming a teacher.

Peter, Early Years Alumni

Read Peter's story

The support from ARU has been amazing. Since day one, I have felt so supported and reassured. Being a distance learner, you do not feel like you are on your own.

Sophie, Psychology Alumni

Read Sophie's story

The tutors understand the challenges and do what they can to help and support you on your journey. I am very proud of myself for finally accomplishing what I have been meaning to do for many years.

Sophie, Early Years Alumni

Read Sophie's story

Awards and recognition

Gold-standard education

We're proud to have received a Gold award for the quality of our education in a UK-wide review of university teaching standards.

Why we're rated Gold

Our course content and delivery is rated as outstanding with the review citing ‘innovative and highly effective course design and content that inspires students to actively engage and commit to their learning’.

We’re also rated outstanding in the areas of:

student engagement in learning
learning environment and academic support
learning resources
student engagement in improvement
approaches to supporting student success
intended educational gains
approaches to supporting educational gains.

What is the Teaching Excellence Framework?

The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) is a national scheme run by the Office for Students that focuses on the areas students care most about: teaching, learning, and achieving positive outcomes from their studies.

It has three outcomes: Bronze, Silver and Gold.

This rating was awarded in September 2023, and lasts for four years.

Be part of the University of the Year

We're proud to be the Times Higher Education (THE) University of the Year 2023. The prestigious THE awards honour ’exceptional performance during the 2021-22 academic year, and reflect ARU’s success in delivering high-impact projects during this period, despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The award recognises the difference we make in the region and our communities – while also acknowledging the broader impact of our world-leading research, and the contributions our students and graduates make to society.

Supported distance learning

We understand that distance learning is different to traditional campus study and if you’re new to online study you may have concerns or apprehensions about studying your early years top up degree online, and that’s natural.

To help put your mind at ease we have a dedicated Distance Learning Support Team to help and support you throughout your time at ARU, starting with your first online induction and staying with you right through to graduation. In addition, you’ll also be supported by specialist early years tutors, well experienced in supporting distance learning students.

Once you start your childhood studies top up degree, we encourage the creation of online communities and many of our learners find these connections with others invaluable, helping them to stay motivated, share concerns or make new friendships.

Visit our support page to learn more about our support services.

Careers

Everything you need to know about building your career in education

What could an Early Childhood Studies top up degree do for my career?

Our Early Childhood Studies degree aims to build upon your existing qualifications to help you progress your career, open doors to leadership positions and enable you to gain influence and authority in the workplace. By building on your existing qualifications, you’ll add a valuable strength to your CV that will help you stand out from the crowd in a competitive job market, making you an attractive prospect for either the next step in your current career, or an asset to a new employer if you choose to embark down a new path.

The early childhood studies arena is one that is continuously evolving, with theories and new programmes continually being updated and implemented. A top-up course will keep your knowledge up to date and give you the tools to keep up with the changing nature of the field, aiding long-term job security and ultimately making you more valuable in your chosen industry. As well as empowering you to develop your career, this course will also boost your ability to deliver in your chosen child-centric role, enabling you to make a positive impact on young lives.

Our BA top-up degree will also give you transferable skills that will help you in all aspects of your career. Not only will you gain a deeper understanding of child development, but you will also have the opportunity to develop your communication, time management, and research skills.

What job roles can I consider with a BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies top up degree?

An Early Childhood Studies top up degree could lead to a wide range of career opportunities within education, health, and social care sectors with further training and/or qualifications. These are just some of the job roles that Early Childhood Studies Top-up BA (Hons) graduate may consider, possibly with further training depending on the role:

Early Years Teacher
Family Support Worker
Teaching Assistant
Learning Mentor
Health Play Specialist
Education Consultant
Play Therapist

If you are looking for more information about these job profiles and potential salary earnings see Prospects.ac.uk. It’s important to note that salaries can vary widely depending on the job role, employer, industry sector and location.

What skills will I get from an early years top up degree to help my career?

What can I study after an Early Childhood Studies top up degree?

Depending on your long-term goals and desired career, you may consider a postgraduate degree in a related subject such as Education with Early Childhood MA or Education with Montessori MA. A Master’s degree is the most common type of postgraduate qualification and usually focuses on a specific area of a wider subject which may support your future career development. Having a bachelor’s degree under your belt is a key entry requirement in opening doors to postgraduate study.

Careers Advice Service

Once you become an ARU student you will be able to access our Employability service to help you whatever stage of your career, whether that’s landing your dream job or the next progression step.

We offer:

careers advice, including one-to-one online and telephone appointments with our experienced advisers
help with your CV, job searches, applications, and interview preparation
an online portal packed with useful careers resources
our Employability Programme, which helps you hone the skills employers say they want in graduates.

FAQs

A selection of popular questions

What is a top-up degree?

A top-up degree is the equivalent of the final year of a Bachelor degree, meaning that if you have already completed a Foundation Degree or an equivalent Level 5 qualification, you can study a one year top-up course to turn it into a full Undergraduate degree.

Choosing to do a top-up degree means that you won’t have to start a full honours degree from scratch. Rather, you will build upon your existing knowledge to ensure you graduate sooner. Some students choose to complete their top-up degree immediately following completion of their Foundation Degree, while others return to study after a break.

Who is suited to this childhood studies top up degree?

This early childhood degree is perfect for those already working in childcare and educational fields. Entry requirements dictate that you must have already completed a Foundation Degree or equivalent in a related area. Because you will have already completed an FdA in Childhood Studies or equivalent qualification, you will have a firm grounding in early childhood theories and practices. This means that you’ll be able to jump right into this degree programme to build upon your existing understanding and knowledge.

Working with children is an incredibly fulfilling vocation, and one that requires a passion for helping young people succeed and grow. If you want to take the next step in your childcare career and make a difference in the lives of the children who you teach, then this is the perfect place to achieve the future you have always dreamed of.

Why Study with ARU?

As this course is fully online, when you study a BA top-up degree via distance learning with ARU, you’ll have complete flexibility over your schedule, meaning you can study at a time that best suits your individual needs. Our online Early Childhood Studies degree is ranked number in the country by the Guardian League Table 2021, and is perfect for anyone seeking to further their qualifications and grow their childcare career.

As you will already be working in the childhood studies or educational fields, you’ll be able to apply your learning from day one, thus seeing the immediate benefits of your new found knowledge, and ensuring that you remain up to date on all the latest theories and policies that are in place to ensure that every child receives a good start in life.

What support will I receive?

At Anglia Ruskin University, we are experts in the delivery of online learning, and we work tirelessly to ensure that every one of our students receives the support they need throughout every stage of their education.

Because your studies will take place online, you will be able to fit your learning around your lifestyle. This is perfect for those students who already have other commitments, such as work and families.

You will study through our world class learning management system, Canvas, which you can access from a range of devices and from anywhere in the world. This means that wherever and whenever you choose to study, you’ll be able to retain contact with both your university peers and your tutors.

Our team is on hand to ensure that you receive all the support and guidance that you need, available to answer your questions and aid in your individual educational needs. Our institution cares about your employability, so we have ensured that we provide you with excellent career and employment advice in order to fully equip you upon graduation to achieve your career goals.

Take the next step, apply today

Next application deadline: 27th May 2026

Your future, on your terms. Apply now before the application deadline.