Psychology and Early Childhood Studies
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Psychology and Early Childhood Studies
=====================================
Overview
This course combines the study of psychology and early childhood studies, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of the psychological and social factors that influence human behavior and development.
Why Study This Course
- Learn about the range of core psychological domains and methods, accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS)
- Engage with on-site research projects, exploring contemporary issues such as mindfulness, psychopathy, and the science of dreaming
- Progressing into teaching? FREE pre-teaching course and guaranteed interview for PGCE
- Develop a wide range of transferable skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication
Course Summary
The BA (Hons) Psychology and Early Childhood Studies is a three-year undergraduate program that introduces students to the scientific nature of psychology and its wider cultural and social impact. The course develops students' understanding of psychology and its theories of the mind, emotions, and behavior, and how these theories are applied in real-life contexts.
Key Facts
- Award: BA (Hons)
- UCAS code: C8X3
- Duration: 3 years
- Mode of study: Full-time
- Start date: September 2025
- Awarding institution: Bishop Grosseteste University
- Institution code: B38
Entry Requirements
- 96-112 UCAS tariff points (from a maximum of four Advanced Level qualifications)
- GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at grade 4 (previously C) or above (or equivalent)
Course Modules
Year 1
- Researching Psychology I
- Introduction to Psychology across the Lifespan
- Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology (CHiP)
- Policy, Provision and Practice
- Principles of Child Development 2: Understanding How Children Learn
Year 2
- Personality and Individual Differences
- Social Psychology
- Researching Psychology II
- Promoting Positive Behaviour
- Understanding Childhood
- Safeguarding children
- Children, Families and Communities
Year 3
- Psychology Dissertation
- BioPsychology
- Cognitive Psychology
- Psychological Research Design and Project Preparation
- The Young Child in Transition: Supporting Change and Promoting Resilience
- Leading Early Childhood Pedagogy and Practice
Optional Modules
- The Value of Play
- Global and Future Childhoods
Assessment
Assessments in Psychology take place at the end of each module to demonstrate understanding of the objectives covered. A wide range of assessment methods is used, including portfolios, presentations, displays, and examinations.
Careers and Further Study
Graduates can pursue careers in teaching, education, local government, health and social work, and industry. Some students may choose to pursue further study in areas such as psychology, speech and language, or midwifery.
Support
Studying at BGU is a student-centered experience, with staff and students working together in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. The university offers a range of support services, including academic support, careers advice, and counseling.
Fees and Funding
For more information on fees and funding, please visit the university's website.
Related Courses
- Psychology and English
- Psychology and Business
- Psychology and Counselling
- Early Childhood Studies
- Health and Wellbeing in Early Childhood
Contact
For more information, please contact the university's admissions team.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The BA (Hons) Psychology and Early Childhood Studies is a three-year undergraduate program that provides students with an in-depth understanding of psychology and its theories of the mind, emotions, and behavior. It also introduces students to aspects of education, health, and social care, with a specific focus on children from 0 to 8 years of age.
Objectives:
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of psychology and its core domains.
- Develop an understanding of the development of children from 0 to 8 years of age.
- Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills.
- Gain hands-on experience through placements and projects.
Program Description:
The program combines the study of psychology with a focus on early childhood development. Students will explore various psychological theories and research methods, while also learning about the specific needs and challenges of young children. They will gain experience in observing and interacting with children in different settings, and develop the skills necessary to work effectively with them.
Outline:
Year 1:
- Researching Psychology I: Introduction to core areas and methods in psychology.
- Introduction to Psychology across the Lifespan: Developmental psychology across the lifespan.
- Conceptual and Historical Issues in Psychology (CHiP): History and origins of psychology.
- Policy, Provision and Practice: Historical and current approaches to early years policy and provision.
Year 2:
- Personality and Individual Differences: The structure of human personality and individual differences.
- Social Psychology: Social behavior and interaction.
- Researching Psychology II: Advanced research methods and statistical techniques.
- Promoting Positive Behaviour: Theories and practices for promoting positive behavior in young children.
- The Value of Play: The role and importance of play in early childhood development.
Year 3:
- Understanding Childhood: Philosophical, sociological, and psychological perspectives on childhood.
- Safeguarding children: Policy and practice regarding safeguarding and child protection in early childhood settings.
- Psychology Dissertation: Research project applying knowledge and skills gained throughout the program.
- BioPsychology: The biological basis of behaviors, emotions, and mental health.
- Cognitive Psychology: Key constructs and methodologies in cognitive psychology.
- Psychological Research Design and Project Preparation: Design and development of a research project for the dissertation.
- Global and Future Childhoods: Challenges and possibilities of global and future childhoods.
- The Young Child in Transition: Supporting Change and Promoting Resilience: Supporting children through transitions and promoting resilience. They include:
- Portfolios
- Presentations
- Displays
- Written essays
- Group discussions
- Practical projects
- Examinations
Teaching:
Teaching methods include:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Seminars
- Practical workshops
- Coursework
- Work-based placements The program features a small group size, allowing for close student-tutor interaction and personalized feedback. Staff are research-active and incorporate their expertise into teaching, providing students with a current and relevant learning experience.
Careers:
Graduates of the program can pursue careers in various fields, including:
- Psychology
- Early childhood education
- Teaching
- Social work
- Play therapy
- Special educational needs
- Research
- Human resources management
Other:
- The program is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
- Students have the opportunity to participate in placements to gain practical experience.
- The program is offered full-time.
- The starting date is September.
- The program is taught at Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln.
