Community Development and Youth Work

In December 2024, the University of Bolton was granted permission by the Office for Students (OfS) to change its name to the University of Greater Manchester with immediate effect. While we work to update our systems, you may see both names used in the information we provide.

Our BA (Hons) in Community Development and Youth Work is recognised by the JNC and was the first in the North West of England to offer dual professional recognition from the NYA and ESB. Incorporating 800 hours of fieldwork experience, it offers the flexible and adaptable skills and knowledge needed for a career making a real difference to young people and communities.

Based at our town centre campus in Bolton, the University of Greater Manchester's BA (Hons) Community Development and Youth Work course offers dual accreditation from two nationally-recognised professional bodies. Recognised by the Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC) and endorsed by the Endorsement Standards Board for Community Development (ESB) and National Youth Agency (NYA), it involves 800 hours of fieldwork practice. Work-based learning through fieldwork placements, and academic studies that support the development of knowledge and skills for practice, are central to this course.

The core values of community development and youth work are at the heart of this degree. Our passionate and knowledgeable staff will guide you to explore issues such as social education, social policy, community engagement, politics, globalisation, social justice, equality and diversity, social history, housing and homelessness. We'll also support you in developing key transferable skills such as communication, self-awareness and time management.

Fieldwork placements or work-based learning can be in a number of distinct settings that work to improve the lives of people in communities and young people, preparing you to adapt to the changing environments in which you may be employed in future. Your work experience will usually be in the Greater Manchester area but can be further afield in the UK.