Education and Childhood (Accelerated Degree)
Undergraduate
- Start date
- –
- Study mode
- –
- Course length
- –
- UCAS Code
- –
Interested in a different start date?
This course is designed for those who want to understand education in depth – exploring the ideas, policies and practices that shape learning today. Across your studies, you’ll develop the ability to think critically, analyse complex concepts and apply theories to real-world contexts.
You’ll learn how to:
– Examine educational concepts and policies systematically, gaining insight into the principles that influence teaching and learning.
– Reflect on connections and differences between theory and practice, understanding how ideas translate into educational settings.
– Adapt to new principles and perspectives, building confidence in applying fresh approaches.
– Engage with a wide range of sources, including research and theoretical evidence, to deepen your knowledge.
– Use evidence to propose meaningful changes, formulating practical, well-justified solutions.
– Apply theories to real-world educational challenges, preparing you to make a positive impact in diverse contexts.
At Birmingham Newman, you’ll be supported by an experienced and approachable teaching team who value your individual journey. Learning takes place through discussion, collaboration and hands-on application, ensuring you graduate with the skills and confidence to shape the future of education.
Studying this accelerated programme allows you to begin your career working with babies, children and young people sooner, without compromising on depth or quality. You’ll gain all the essential knowledge, skills and professional experience of a traditional degree, but in a focused format designed for motivated learners who want to make an impact quickly.
Got a question you’d like to ask?
Entry requirements
We welcome students from all backgrounds and accept a wide range of qualifications. If yours aren’t listed, don’t worry – our Admissions Team can help you explore your options. See full entry requirements.
48 UCAS points.
At least 10 hours paid (or voluntary) practice.
We encourage students from any background and work experience to enquire and apply, even if they do not meet the stated entry requirements. Dependent upon their situation and consultation we may still consider the application.
Please contact Admissions if you have any questions.
Course fees
The tuition fee for academic year 2025/26 is: £11,440
Fees for the 2026/27 academic year are subject to change and will be published here on 9 February 2026.
Additional costs
The University will review tuition fees and increase fees in line with any inflationary uplift as determined by the UK Government, if permitted by law or government policy, in subsequent years of your course. It is anticipated that such increases would be linked to RPI (the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments).
Check out our blog/news/events
Vice-Chancellor Professor Jackie Dunne awarded MBE in New Year Honours
Professor Jackie Dunne, Vice-Chancellor of Birmingham Newman University, has received an MBE in the 2026…
Birmingham Newman University Celebrates Staff Achievements at Annual Awards
On Thursday 11 December, Birmingham Newman University proudly celebrated the dedication and achievements of its…
North Midlands RFU and Birmingham Newman University Join Forces to Support Grassroots Rugby Coaching
Birmingham Newman University has strengthened its commitment to community engagement and coach development by hosting…
Andrew Csizmadia Named Fellow of the British Computer Society for Excellence in Computing Education
Andrew Csizmadia SFHEA, Emeritus Fellow in Computing Education at Birmingham Newman University, has been appointed…
Birmingham Newman University Exceeds Fundraising Goal with British Heart Foundation Partnership
Birmingham Newman University has achieved an incredible milestone in its ongoing partnership with the British…
Book an open day
Find out about our next open day. Book now to secure your place.
This is a work based degree programme so students must be either working with children or will be supported to find a placement working with children.
This programme opens doors for those already working in education and looking to take the next step. It’s designed to support teaching assistants and educational support staff to gain a degree while continuing to work, creating a clear pathway to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) through routes such as PGCE, SCITT or Birmingham Newman Direct.
With a government pledge to recruit 6,500 additional teachers, there’s never been a better time to progress in your career. School leaders are actively seeking solutions to address the teacher shortage, and this programme offers a practical way forward—helping you build on your experience and prepare for future opportunities.
You’ll also benefit from modules that develop adaptability, resilience and critical thinking—skills essential in a rapidly changing world shaped by economic uncertainty and advances in AI. Real-world learning, combined with extended placements and part-time work, ensures you graduate ready to thrive in education and beyond.
Potential career paths include:
– Primary or Secondary Teacher (via QTS routes)
– Early Years Practitioner
– Special Educational Needs (SEN) Support
– Education Leadership and Management
– Policy and Community Education Roles
At Birmingham Newman, we don’t just prepare you for a job—we empower you to build a meaningful career that makes a difference.
Courses we think you'll also like
BA Secondary Education Physical Education 11-16 with Post 16 enhancement (with recommendation for QTS)
- Start date:
- September 2026
PGCE Secondary Religious Education with recommendation for QTS (part-time)
- Start date:
- September 2026
PGCE Secondary Physical Education (part-time)
- Start date:
- September 2026
BA (Honours) Secondary Education Humanities (History, Geography and RE) 11-16 with Post 16 enhancement (with recommendation for QTS)
- Start date:
- September 2026