Youth Work And Communities Birmingham City University

Overview

The Youth Work and Communities degree at Birmingham City University is a contemporary and engaging course that has received accreditation from the Joint Negotiating Committee, the professional body responsible for certifying youth workers in England and Wales. This programme has been meticulously crafted in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the National Youth Agency and UK Youth, to ensure that it meets the needs of both students and the communities they will serve.

Throughout the course, students will gain essential knowledge and skills required to embark on successful careers in youth work, whether in the public sector, non-governmental organisations, or private enterprises. The curriculum is rich with practical skills, cultural competencies, and communication strategies, all designed to enhance community engagement opportunities. This ensures that graduates are well-equipped to work with diverse populations and make a meaningful impact.

Why Youth Work And Communities at Birmingham City University?

Birmingham City University stands out for its commitment to practice-based learning and its strong ties to local organisations. With over 31,000 students from more than 100 countries, the university fosters a diverse learning environment. The Youth Work and Communities programme is embedded within the vibrant social fabric of Birmingham, allowing students to engage with a wide array of communities and cultural contexts. The university's focus on employability ensures that students not only earn their degrees but also acquire the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in their future careers.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the BA (Hons) in Youth Work and Communities are as follows:

• National Students: £9,535 per year
• International Students: £18,570 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The programme is structured into three years, with a blend of core modules and optional units to enhance learning:

• Year 1:
  • Introduction to Youth and Community Work
  • Working with Individuals, Groups and Communities
  • Social Policy: Inequalities and Inclusion
  • Equality, Diversity, Values and Social Justice
  • Placement: Foundations in Practice
  • Identities, Self and Intersectionality
• Year 2:
  • Researching with Youth and Communities
  • Global Youth and Community Development
  • Placement: Reflexive Practice
  • Leadership, Management and Enterprise Skills in Youth and Community Contexts
  • Optional modules include Mental Health, Wellbeing and Counselling and Crime Media Culture.
• Year 3:
  • Placement: Critical Operational Reflexive Practice
  • Multi and Intra-professional Working Project
  • Leadership, Networking and Partnership Building in Youth and Community
  • Optional modules include Violence, Conflict and Mediation and Counselling and Wellbeing Support Skills.

Guaranteed Work Experience

This programme includes a mandatory 800 hours of placement experience, ensuring that students gain practical skills and professional connections throughout their studies. These placements are designed to provide real-world exposure and are integral to the learning process.

Careers with Youth Work And Communities

Graduates of the Youth Work and Communities programme can pursue various career paths in sectors such as community development, social work, and education. Many alumni find employment with local authorities, charities, and youth organisations, where they apply their skills to support and empower young people and communities. The strong emphasis on employability and partnerships with local employers enhances job prospects for graduates.