Early Childhood Studies Degree Guide

Early Childhood Studies is an academic and vocational field that explores the development, care, and education of children from birth

to around eight years old. It combines insights from education, psychology, health, sociology, and social policy, making it ideal for students who want to understand and support children’s early life experiences in a range of settings.

This blog explains what it means to study Early Childhood Studies in the UK, and how it compares to similar programmes around the world.

Studying Early Childhood Studies in the UK

In the UK, Early Childhood Studies is typically offered as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) Honours degree and provides a broad, multidisciplinary foundation in the early years. It is different from a teacher training degree, though it may serve as a stepping stone to teaching or other professional qualifications.

What the Course Covers:

• Child development and psychology

• Early years education and curriculum

• Health, wellbeing, and safeguarding

• Social policy and inequality

• Play and learning theory

• Research methods

Courses often include placements in nurseries, preschools, or early years settings, although they do not usually lead directly to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). However, graduates can progress into teaching through a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT), or other postgraduate routes.

Entry Requirements:

• A-levels, BTECs, or equivalent Level 3 qualifications

• GCSEs in English and Maths (especially important if you plan to pursue teacher training later)

• Experience working with young children is beneficial, though not always required

Career Opportunities:

Graduates go on to work in:

• Early years education (nurseries, preschools)

• Family support and social services

• Child and youth work

• Special educational needs (SEN)

• Education policy or charity work

• Postgraduate study for careers in teaching, social work, play therapy, or educational psychology

It is important to check if the degree is recognised by professional bodies such as the Department for Education (DfE) or leads to eligibility for roles like Early Years Practitioner or Early Years Teacher.

Studying Early Childhood Education in Europe

Across Europe, Early Childhood Education is a well-established academic field. Most countries offer degree programmes focused on both the care and education of young children, though the structure and emphasis can vary.

General Features:

• Typically offered as a three- or four-year bachelor's degree

• Combines theory with practical training in early years settings

• Often leads to a role in early years education or care, though teaching in schools may require additional certification

• Most programmes are delivered in the national language, but some are offered in English

Examples:

• Ireland: Offers Level 7 and Level 8 degrees in Early Childhood Care and Education, often required for working in state-funded early years settings.

• Finland: Known for its high-quality early childhood education system; teachers are highly trained with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

• Germany and France: Early years roles are often vocationally focused, but academic programmes are becoming more common.

If you plan to return to the UK after studying abroad, ensure your degree is recognised for further study or professional roles.

Studying Early Childhood Education in Australia

In Australia, Early Childhood Education is a respected profession with clear pathways into teaching and childcare leadership.

Typical Courses:

• Bachelor of Early Childhood Education – 3 to 4 years, includes teaching practice

• Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care – vocational route leading to educator roles in childcare settings

• Graduate diplomas or master's degrees are also available for those who already hold a degree

Graduates can work in long day care, preschool, or kindergarten settings, and may be eligible to register as early childhood teachers depending on the course and the state.

Courses are regulated by Australian Children's Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA), which ensures national consistency in early childhood qualifications.

Studying Early Childhood Education in New Zealand

New Zealand offers structured and respected pathways into early years education, with a strong emphasis on cultural inclusivity and holistic development.

Education Options:

• Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education) – typically 3 years

• Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE) – for those with an undergraduate degree

• Accredited by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand

Courses prepare students to work in a variety of settings including kindergartens, daycare centres, and community services, with an emphasis on bicultural practice and Te Whāriki, New Zealand’s unique early childhood curriculum.

Studying Early Childhood Education in Canada

In Canada, early childhood education (ECE) is typically delivered at the college level for practitioners, while university-level study is available for those pursuing leadership or research roles.

Two Main Pathways:

1. College Diplomas in ECE – typically two to three years; prepares students for work in daycares, preschools, and family centres

2. Bachelor’s Degrees in Early Childhood Education or Child Development – available at universities; may lead to supervisory roles or further study

Early years education is regulated at the provincial level, so qualification requirements differ by region. For example, Ontario has the College of Early Childhood Educators, which oversees professional registration and standards.

Studying Early Childhood Education in the USA

In the United States, early childhood education is a growing field, especially with national focus on universal pre-K and early learning access.

Training Routes:

• Associate Degrees in ECE – two years; prepares students for roles in daycare or preschool settings

• Bachelor’s Degrees in Early Childhood Education – four years; may include state certification to teach in pre-K or kindergarten settings

• Master’s Degrees – for leadership, policy, or specialist roles

Each state sets its own requirements for certification and licensure. For example, to teach in public schools, candidates often need to complete a state-approved teacher preparation programme, pass licensing exams, and hold a bachelor’s degree.

Roles range from preschool teacher and Head Start educator to early years policy advisor or curriculum specialist.

Final Thoughts

Studying Early Childhood Studies provides a strong foundation for working with young children and supporting their learning and development. In the UK, the degree offers a flexible route into early years education, social care, or postgraduate teacher training. Internationally, early childhood education is widely valued, though qualifications and pathways differ.

When choosing where to study, consider:

• Whether you want to work directly with children or in research, policy, or support services

• If the course includes practical placements

• Whether the qualification leads to professional recognition or teacher registration

• Long-term career plans and where you intend to work

No matter where you study, a career in early childhood can offer purpose, variety, and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of young children and their families.