Key information
- Duration:
- 3 years full time
- Typical A-level offer:
- BBB-BBC
View full entry requirements - UCAS code:
- L590
- Start date:
- September 2025
- 1st in the UK for our research impact in Education in REF 2021 (Times Higher Education)
- 2nd in the UK for Childhood and Youth Studies (Complete University Guide 2025)
What is it to be a child? What do children and young people need from the professionals supporting them? This course and our interdisciplinary approach help you explore these questions. You’ll find out how children and young people’s lives are shaped by their position in society. And you learn how professionals can work to promote rights, democracy and justice in their everyday lives.
During your studies, you’ll:
- discuss contemporary issues, debates and challenges in global childhood
- learn about different theoretical and practical approaches to working with children and young people, and their families
- develop yourself as a practitioner in the field of childhood and youth by building an understanding of collaborative working, safeguarding and reflective practice
- explore the relevance of wellbeing and digital technologies to the lives of children and young people today and for their futures
- take electives from other subjects – such as philosophy, psychology, law, or modern languages – to open your mind to other disciplines and tailor your degree to your interests.
Through two professional placements you’ll experience different practice settings. These might include a nursery, a play scheme, a youth club, a children’s charity or a school.
You’ll be taught by active researchers who are passionate about their areas of expertise. Our multidisciplinary Centre for Innovation and Research in Childhood and Youth influences policy. It informs the work of those working at the forefront of practice with children and young people, nationally and globally.
This degree is for you if you want to make a difference to the lives of children and young people. When you graduate, you’ll have the critical academic, research and practice skills needed for a range of future career paths. These could include youth work, social work, health care, therapeutic work, education, social policy or international development.
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.
The lectures and seminars are interactive, and the team delivering the courses always have time for you.”Danae Stanton
Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice BA
Choosing Sussex – Paige Lewis, Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice BA
Entry requirements
A-level
| Typical offer | BBB-BBC |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | View contextual offer Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| GCSEs | You should also have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (or A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
| Extended Project Qualification | We take the EPQ into account when considering your application and it can be useful in the summer when your results are released if you have narrowly missed the conditions of your offer. We do not routinely include the EPQ in the conditions of your offer but we sometimes offer alternative conditions that include the EPQ. If you wish to discuss this further please contact us |
Other UK qualifications
Access to HE Diploma
| Typical offer | Pass Diploma with at least 39 level 3 credits at Merit or above including 18-21 credits at Distinction |
|---|---|
| Subjects | The Access course should be in the humanities or social sciences. |
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects (including A-level mixes)
| Typical offer | M2 M2 M2 If you have one A-level and two Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subjects we would expect you to have grade B at A-level and, M2 and M2 in two Pre-Us. If you have two A-levels and a Cambridge Pre-U Principal Subject we would normally expect you to have grades BB at A-level and M2 in Pre-U. |
|---|---|
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs grades 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 30 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
NCFE CACHE Level 3 Technical Diploma in Childcare and Education ( Early Years Educator)
| Typical offer | Grade A |
|---|---|
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs grades 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and one A-level
| Typical offer | Grade B in A-level and Distinction, Merit in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | View contextual offer Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs grades 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate and two A-levels
| Typical offer | Grades BB in A-levels and Merit in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | View contextual offer Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs grades 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma)
| Typical offer | DDM |
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | View contextual offer Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| Subjects | The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma should be in Health & Social Care, Business, Sport, Applied Science, Performing Arts, IT or Media |
| GCSEs | You should have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
Scottish Highers
| Typical offer | ABBBB - BBBBB |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
T Level
| Typical offer | Pass T-Level with an overall grade of Distinction including grade B in the Core Component
|
|---|---|
| Contextual offer | View contextual offer Not everyone has the same support to get to higher education – we help you reach your potential. When we receive applications through UCAS, we consider all factors and will sometimes make contextual offers as part of our Access and Participation Plan |
| Subjects | Preferably Education and Childcare |
| GCSEs | You should also have a broad range of GCSEs 9-4 (or A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced
| Typical offer | BBB-BBC from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate and two A-levels |
|---|---|
| GCSEs | You should also have a broad range of GCSEs (A*-C), including good grades in relevant subjects. |
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
International Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | 30 points overall from the full IB Diploma. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
European Baccalaureate
| Typical offer | Overall result of at least 75% |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | We welcome applications from both recent school leavers and those returning to education. For non school leavers, we look for evidence of recent study and/or relevant experience and may require you to produce a piece of written work in order to assess your academic level. Initial selection, however, is based on the strength of your UCAS application. You're invited to contact the admissions tutor to discuss any queries you may have about your eligibility. Selection decisions will normally be taken on the basis of your UCAS application only. There will be no mandatory interviews for Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice. In certain circumstances you may be accepted onto the course if you can demonstrate the ability to study at the appropriate level. You may be accepted onto the course if you have equivalent professional qualifications and/or professional experience. We particularly welcome applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential, enthusiasm and commitment to study. |
Other international qualifications
Australia
| Typical offer | Relevant state (Year 12) High School Certificate, and 85% in the ATAR or UAI/TER/ENTER, or a Queensland OP of 5 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Austria
| Typical offer | Reifeprüfung or Matura with an overall result of 2.2 or better for first-year entry. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Belgium
| Typical offer | Certificat d'Enseignement Secondaire Supérieur (CESS) or Diploma van Hoger Secundair Onderwijs with a good overall average of 65% or more. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Good grades in subject areas. Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Bulgaria
| Typical offer | Diploma za Sredno Obrazovanie with excellent final-year scores (normally 5.5 overall with 6 in key subjects). |
|---|
Canada
| Typical offer | Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 70% from 6 grade 12 U, U/C or M courses. British Columbia Certificate of Graduation BBBBB from 5 grade 12 courses. We also recognise the High School Diploma from other provinces -including Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick- where we look for strong performance in grade 12 subjects, and the Diplome d'Etudes Collegiales (DEC) from Quebec. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
China
| Typical offer | If you have the Goakao, we will consider applications for direct entry to first year. You would normally need an overall average of 75%, including required subjects. We are also pleased to consider applications if you are following a recognised International Foundation Year or you have one or more years of Higher Education in China at a recognised degree awarding institution. The Senior High School Graduation alone would not be sufficient for entry to our undergraduate degrees, but you may be eligible to apply for our International Foundation Year. If you successfully complete an International Foundation Year, you can progress on to a relevant undergraduate course at Sussex. Check which qualifications the International Study Centre accepts for the International Foundation Year. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Croatia
| Typical offer | Maturatna Svjedodžba with an overall score of 4. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Cyprus
| Typical offer | Apolytirion of Lykeion with an overall average of 18 /20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Czech Republic
| Typical offer | Maturita with a good overall average. |
|---|---|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Denmark
| Typical offer | Højere Forberedelseseksamen (HF) or Studentereksamen with an overall average of at least 7 on the new grading scale. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Finland
| Typical offer | Pass Ylioppilastutkinto with overall final result between MMMM - EMMM |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
France
| Typical offer | French Baccalauréat with overall final result of at least 12/20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Germany
| Typical offer | German Abitur with an overall result of 2.2 or better. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Greece
| Typical offer | Apolytirion with an overall average of at least 18 will be considered for first-year entry. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hong Kong
| Typical offer | Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) with grades of 4,4,4 from three subjects including two electives. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Hungary
| Typical offer | Erettsegi/Matura with a good averageof at least 55544. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
India
| Typical offer | Standard XII results 75% - 80% from ISC Indian School certificate of Education (CISCE) |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Iran
| Typical offer | Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|---|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Ireland
| Typical offer | Irish Leaving Certificate (Higher Level) at H2,H2,H2,H3,H3 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Israel
| Typical offer | For first year entry at least 80% (or 8/10) in at least 6 subjects, including one 5 unit subject, in one sitting of the Bagrut. |
|---|
Italy
| Typical offer | Italian Diploma di Maturità or Diploma Pass di Esame di Stato with a Final Diploma mark of at least 78/100. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Japan
| Typical offer | Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|---|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Latvia
| Typical offer | Atestats par Visparejo videjo Izglitibu with very good grades in state exams. |
|---|
Lithuania
| Typical offer | Brandos Atestatas including scores of 80% in at least three state examinations (other than English). |
|---|
Luxembourg
| Typical offer | Pass the Diplome de Fin d’Etudes Secondaires with 43 points overall. |
|---|
Malaysia
| Typical offer | at least Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) with grades of BBB, Matriculation with a least a grade of 3.0 or UEC with an overall average grade B4 (70%) from 6 subjects. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Netherlands
| Typical offer | Voorereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs (VWO), normally with an average of at least 7. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis |
Nigeria
| Typical offer | You are expected to have one of the following:
You must also have a score of C6 or above in WAEC/SSC English. Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|---|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Norway
| Typical offer | Norwegian Vitnemal Fra Den Videregaende Opplaering - Pass with an overall average of 4. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Pakistan
| Typical offer | You can apply for direct entry to Year 1 if you are completing at least two years of Bachelor degree studies. You'll normally need to complete a Foundation year after taking Intermediate Certificate or the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC). You might choose one of our International Foundation Years at the International Study Centre on campus. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Poland
| Typical offer | Pass Matura with least 3 Extended level subjects in the 75th percentile.
|
|---|
Portugal
| Typical offer | Diploma de Ensino Secundario normally with an overall mark of 16/20. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Romania
| Typical offer | Diploma de Bacalaureat with an overall average of 8.0. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Russia
| Typical offer | Applicants who have good grades in the Attestat o Srednem Obrazovami (Certificate of Secondary Education) and who have successfully completed the first year of a Russian University degree, with a minimum GPA of 4.0, will be considered for admission to the first year of our bachelor’s degree courses. |
|---|---|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Singapore
| Typical offer | A-levels, as well as certain certificates and diplomas. |
|---|---|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Slovakia
| Typical offer | Pass Vysvedčenie o maturitnej skúške (Maturita) with an average grade of 2.0 from 4 subjects
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Please note: Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Slovenia
| Typical offer | Secondary School Leaving Diploma or Matura with at least 23 points overall. |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
South Africa
| Typical offer | National Senior Certificate with very good grades. |
|---|---|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Spain
| Typical offer | Spanish Título de Bachillerato (LOGSE) with an overall average result of at least 7.5 |
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sri Lanka
| Typical offer | Sri Lankan A-levels. |
|---|---|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Sweden
| Typical offer | Fullstandigt Slutbetyg/Högskoleförberedande Examen with a total of 2,500 credits to include B grades in the majority of subjects.
|
|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Switzerland
| Typical offer | Federal Maturity Certificate. |
|---|---|
| Please note | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
Turkey
| Typical offer | We'll consider students who have taken the Lise Diplomasi or Lise Bitirme, with a score of at least 4/5 or 80/100 in their final year, on a case by case basis for direct entry to year 1. Where direct entry is unsuitable, we'll automatically consider you for one of our Foundation Years. Or you might want to apply to one of our International Foundation Years at the international Study Centre on Campus. Visit isc.sussex.ac.uk/our-courses/international-foundation-year or www.sussex.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/foundation-years |
|---|
USA
| Typical offer | We look at your full profile considering everything you are studying, including the High School Graduation Diploma, Grade 12 GPA, SAT tests and subject tests and/or ACT grades and AP tests. We expect to see a combination of these qualifications. Alongside your High School Graduation Diploma, we would ideally like to see 3 good AP scores with either, a combined SAT test score (evidence-based reading and writing and mathematics) of 1300, or a combined ACT score of 26 AP and SAT Subject tests Please check the individual course pages for our typical A-level offer and see below for the corresponding scores we would require from AP test scores:
We will also accept a combination of any 3 AP tests and SAT subject test where a score of 600 in an SAT subject test can be substituted for an AP test in the above table If you are applying for a degree with an A level subject requirement in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or Biology will normally need to hold an AP test in that subject. College level credits We also accept college level 3-credit courses in academic subjects as the equivalent of a UK A Level on a case by case basis. These can be combined with AP tests and or SAT subject tests Associate degrees An Associate degree with a GPA of 3.0 will meet our entry requirements for year 1. Foundation Year entry Students who have a High School Diploma and SAT or ACT tests only would be eligible to apply for our Foundation Year
| ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Additional requirements | Our entry requirements are guidelines and we assess all applications on a case-by-case basis. |
My country is not listed
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
English language requirements
IELTS (Academic)
6.0 overall, including at least 5.5 in each component
Check your IELTS qualification meets all of our language requirements
IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.
We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.
We do not accept IELTS Online.
Other English language requirements
Proficiency tests
Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English (CAE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill
Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced.
We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test.
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)
169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill
Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency.
We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.
You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test.
Pearson (PTE Academic)
59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills.
Check your Pearson (PTE Academic) qualification meets all of our language requirements
Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic).
Please refer to our English language requirements above, and as listed for each of our undergraduate courses, to find the appropriate English level for the course you are applying for.
PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.
We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.
TOEFL (iBT)
80 overall, including at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, 17 in Writing.
Check your TOEFL qualification meets all of our language requirements
Find out more about TOEFL (iBT).
TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.
We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.
The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.
English language qualifications
AS/A-level (GCE)
Grade C or above in English Language.
Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English
GCE O-level
Grade C or above in English.
Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.
GCSE or IGCSE
Grade C or above in English as a First Language (grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).
Grade B or above in English as a Second Language
Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate
If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.
If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language.
Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)
Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.
Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)
The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%
Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70% or Grade 3
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
English A or English B at grade 5 or above.
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
Grades A – C in English
Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 119/GCE O-level
If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-5 in English Language.
If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.
The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).
West African Senior School Certificate
Grades 1-6 in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).
Country exceptions
Select to see the list of exempt English-speaking countries
If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirements. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.
You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.
Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.
List of exempt countries
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada**
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guyana
- Ireland
- Jamaica
- New Zealand
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- United Kingdom
- USA
** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.
Admissions information for applicants
| Disclosure and barring service check | Yes. All candidates offered a place on the course will be required to satisfactorily complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, including a check of all cautions and warnings as well as convictions, before their place on the course is confirmed. International students will additionally be required to obtain a recent criminal record certificate from their home country. A list of admissible certificates can be found on the UK Government website: Criminal records checks for overseas applicants. |
|---|---|
| Transfers into Year 2 | Yes. Find out more about transferring into Year 2 of this course. We don’t accept transfers into the third or final year. |
If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us
For details on any additional costs, check out the Fees and scholarships section.
Don’t meet our entry requirements?
If you don't meet our entry requirements, we recommend our in-house Foundation Year course to prepare you for Year 1 of your chosen degree:
Modules
This is a single-honours course, allowing you to focus in depth on your core subject.
Find out about our types of undergraduate degrees, their structure, modules and credits
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
- Historical Childhoods: antiquity to the modern day
- Introduction to Childhood and Youth: Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Autumn teaching
Spring teaching
Explore modules from other subjects as part of your course
At Sussex, you can choose to customise your course to build the sort of degree that will give you the knowledge, skills and experience that could take you in any direction you choose.
As part of this degree, you explore subjects that are different to your course through electives and pathways that complement your main subject. Exploring different disciplines in four electives across Years 1 and 2 helps enrich your learning experience.
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.
Check back in January 2025 for more details of the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
Autumn teaching
Spring teaching
Explore modules from other subjects as part of your course
At Sussex, you can choose to customise your course to build the sort of degree that will give you the knowledge, skills and experience that could take you in any direction you choose.
As part of this degree, you explore subjects that are different to your course through electives and pathways that complement your main subject. Exploring different disciplines in four electives across Years 1 and 2 helps enrich your learning experience.
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.
Check back in January 2025 for more details of the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.
Study abroad (optional)
Apply to study abroad – you’ll develop an international perspective and gain an edge when it comes to your career. Find out where your course could take you
If your application to study abroad is successful, you’ll have to meet the academic requirements at Sussex and also at the partner university. Find out more about studying abroad as a Sussex student
We spend five days each year on a placement, which is a great opportunity to apply what we’ve learnt on the course.”Yasmin Ahmed
Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice BA
Please note that if you’re receiving – or applying for – USA federal Direct Loan funds, you can’t transfer to the version of your course with an optional study abroad period in any country or optional placement in the USA if the number of credits for the placement/internship exceeds 25% of the total credits for your course. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid
Core modules
Core modules are taken by all students on the course. They give you a solid grounding in your chosen subject and prepare you to explore the topics that interest you most.
- Digital Childhoods
- Therapeutic Work with Children and Young People (PA 3)
- Working with Children and Young People: Linking Theory and Professional Skills
Autumn teaching
Autumn and spring teaching
Spring teaching
We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum. We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.
We’ll do our best to provide as much optional choice as we can, but timetabling constraints mean it may not be possible to take some module combinations. The structure of a small number of courses means that the order of modules or the streams you choose may determine whether modules are core or optional. This means that your core modules or options may differ from what’s shown here.
Check back in January 2025 for more details of the modules running in the academic year 2025/26.
Placements (in Years 1 and 2)
Placements help you to link theory and practice, and give you the opportunity to link your dissertation to a professional setting.
Currently, we offer two five-week work-based placements during the course of the degree:
- in the spring term of Year 1
- in the autumn term of Year 2.
Placements are in a variety of settings, including schools, youth centres, and alternative and supportive services.
Placements – Maya Uzamere, Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice BA
Silver
The student experience and student outcomes are typically very high quality.
This rating was awarded in 2023, for four years.
(Teaching Excellence Framework 2023)
Find out more about our approach to teaching and supporting you to thrive
Our staff
My studies of ‘social pedagogy’, a model of work with children and young people, is attracting interest in the UK because of its key role in other European countries.”Professor Janet Boddy
Professor of Child, Youth and Family Studies
An emphasis on research – Paige Lewis, Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice BA
Prof Tamsin Hinton-Smith
Professor of Sociology of Gender and Education
Fees
- Home students:
- £9,250 per year
- Channel Islands and Isle of Man students:
- £9,250 per year
- International students:
- £22,575 per year
- Study abroad:
- Find out about grants and funding, tuition fees and insurance costs for studying abroad
- Placement:
- Find out about tuition fees for placements
Note that your fees, once they’re set, may be subject to an increase on an annual basis. Find details on our Tuition fees page.
Additional costs
Note about additional costs
Please note that all costs are best estimates based on current market values. Activities may be subject to unavoidable change in response to Government advice. We’ll let you know at the earliest opportunity. We review estimates every year and they may vary with inflation. Find out how to budget for student life.
Placements
This course has two mandatory placements as well as a number of local day trips. Students must pay for their own travel costs.
DBS check
The University subsidises the mandatory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), with no cost to the student.
Find out about typical living costs for studying at Sussex
Find out about our terms and conditions
Scholarships
Details of our scholarships are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26.
Careers
As a student on this BA, you have the opportunity to work with supportive faculty on your future career plan. We also stay in touch with, and continue to offer our help to, all our graduates long after graduation.
Opportunities are rich and varied. Equipped with placement experiences, recent graduates have entered the workplace in roles such as:
- child mentor in the charity sector
- teaching specialist with sign language
- entrepreneur running a small business.
Some of our graduates have gained places on the prestigious JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) Programme and the South Korean government’s teaching programme. We currently have a graduate studying for, and student considering, a law conversion degree. Other graduates have started postgraduate training for roles such as:
- child-focused therapist or speech therapist
- school counsellor
- nurse practitioner
- social worker (postgraduate courses offered at Sussex)
- primary school teacher or early years teacher (postgraduate courses offered at Sussex).
Working while you study
Our Careers and Entrepreneurship team can help you find part-time work while you study. Find out more about career development and part-time work
Career ambitions – Paige Lewis, Childhood and Youth: Theory and Practice BA
A-level - contextual offer
BCC
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma and one A-level - contextual offer
Grade B in A-level and Merit, Merit in Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate and two A-levels - contextual offer
Grades BC in A-levels and Merit in BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma) - contextual offer
DMM
T Level - contextual offer
Merit overall with a grade B in Core Component