Community Development BA

Community Development is about working alongside communities to promote social justice, inclusion and empowerment. A Community Development degree prepares you to help groups address inequalities, build stronger networks and create positive social change. It combines academic learning with hands-on practice, making it an ideal choice for students who are passionate about social action, diversity and grassroots change.

Course Structure

Most Community Development degrees last three years full time, with some universities offering part-time routes or a four-year programme including a placement or study abroad year. Many are recognised by the Endorsement and Quality Standards Board for Community Development Learning (ESB).

Teaching is delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops, case studies and extensive practice placements. Assessment typically includes essays, reports, reflective journals, group projects, presentations and community-based projects.

Typical Modules Could Include

Year 1 – Foundations of Community Work

Introduction to Community Development

Social Policy and Inequality

Values, Ethics and Professional Practice

Human Development and Identity

Communication and Group Facilitation Skills

First Practice Placement in a Community Setting

Year 2 – Building Skills and Knowledge

• Community Development Approaches and Methods

• Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Oppressive Practice

• Participatory Action Research

• Working with Young People and Families

• Social Justice, Policy and Human Rights

• Extended Practice Placement

  
  

Year 3 – Advanced Practice and Leadership

• Community Organising and Campaigning

• Leadership and Project Management in Community Settings

• Global and Sustainable Development

• Partnership Working with Local Authorities and NGOs

• Dissertation or Applied Research Project

• Final Extended Placement (often 200+ hours)

  
  

Placements are central to the degree, giving students experience in charities, housing associations, local authorities, faith organisations and grassroots groups.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements vary, but useful subjects include:

• A levels: Sociology, Psychology, Politics, Health and Social Care or Geography.

  
  

• BTECs: Health and Social Care, Applied Social Science, or Public Services are widely accepted.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Social Sciences or related fields are preferred.

  
  

• Strong communication skills and a passion for social justice are just as important as academic results.

What Makes a Strong Application

Universities value applicants who demonstrate community engagement and awareness of social issues. A strong application should include:

• Relevant volunteering or work experience in community centres, youth groups, charities, or social action projects.

  
  

• A personal statement showing motivation for social justice, awareness of diversity and interest in empowerment.

  
  

• Academic results in social science or related fields.

  
  

• Extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership, teamwork and commitment to community causes.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

A Community Development degree provides professional and transferable skills, including:

• Communication and facilitation – engaging groups and individuals.

  
  

• Leadership and teamwork – coordinating projects and campaigns.

  
  

• Problem-solving – addressing community needs and challenges.

  
  

• Advocacy and empowerment – supporting people to make their voices heard.

  
  

• Research and analysis – evaluating policies and community initiatives.

  
  

• Cultural awareness and inclusivity – working effectively in diverse communities.

  
  

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Community Development Students

Here are four accessible and inspiring books:

“Pedagogy of the Oppressed” by Paulo Freire – A classic text on empowerment and participatory approaches to learning.

“Community Development in an Uncertain World” by Jim Ife – Explores the role of community development in global social justice.

“Asset-Based Community Development” by John P. Kretzmann and John L. McKnight – Focuses on building community strengths rather than deficits.

“Radical Help” by Hilary Cottam – A practical look at reimagining public services and communities in modern society.

Typical Pay After Graduation

Graduates in community development roles typically start on £23,000–£28,000 in charities, local government or housing associations. With experience, community development officers or managers earn £30,000–£40,000. Senior managers, policy advisers or specialists in areas like regeneration and international development may earn £45,000–£55,000+.