University of Huddersfield

Youth and Community Work BA(Hons)

If you would like to work with young people and help them reach their full potential, or play a part working in the community with local groups then this Youth and Community Work degree could help you get the qualification and experience you need. The course doesn’t just lead to a degree in Youth and Community Work – upon successful completion you will attain recognised status as a professional Youth Worker: as it’s endorsed by the National Youth Agency and recognised by the Joint Negotiating Committee for Youth and Community Work, this qualification could help you stand out from the crowd.

Why Youth and Community Work?
During your studies you’ll have the chance to study a whole range of subjects relating to young people in today’s society. You’ll look at education, learning and development, and explore how groups and communities interact. You’ll also be able to study social policy and inclusion.
We’ll give you the opportunity to gain a wider knowledge and understanding of government policies, as well as the current theories and strategies to do with how young people act. You’ll also have the chance to study a wide range of broader topics, including controversial issues like what society can do to prevent child sexual exploitation or violent extremism.
The course is designed to be an extremely practical introduction to your subject. In fact, we aim to give you at least 800 hours of practical, hands-on experience in a wide range of settings. You could be working: with a wide range of youth projects; as part of a creative team supporting young people's participation in theatre, music or other arts-based work; in High School pastoral care teams; and at other alternative education settings. Some students have even completed placements in prisons, preparing young offenders to prepare for life after they are released; or in community-based services supporting young people to address their issues with alcohol and drugs; and in other community services addressing mental health, child sexual exploitation, gangs and violence and sex / relationship education.
With such an emphasis on placements and work experience, the course is a great opportunity to develop your practical knowledge and skills – exactly what employers in the real world are looking for. During your time at Huddersfield you’ll be able to access our extensive professional and academic network, not to mention our excellent facilities and specialist equipment.