Higher Education

BA (Hons) Youth Justice

Take the first step in shaping the future of youth justice with our BA (Hons) Youth Justice, validated by the University of Suffolk. This unique degree empowers you with the expertise and practical skills to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children and young people.

Youth justice is more than a career – it’s a calling to challenge societal perceptions, address the root causes of offending behaviour, and advocate for better outcomes. In the UK, with the age of criminal responsibility among the lowest in Europe, how we work with children in the justice system has never been more critical. This course prepares you to lead change, whether by working directly with children or influencing the policies and practices that shape their futures.

Through a blend of academic insight and practical application, this course provides a unique pathway to a career in youth justice. Fully online and flexible, it’s designed to fit around your commitments, helping you achieve your professional goals while making a real impact in the lives of young people.

Course pathway options

Certificate of Higher Education in Youth Justice (Cert HE)

Course duration: 54 weeks

Level of study: Level 4

Credits: 120

BA in Youth Justice

Course duration: 138 weeks

Level of study: Level 4, 5 & 6

Credits: 300

Foundation Degree in Youth Justice (FdA)

Course duration: 108 weeks

Level of study: Level 4 & 5

Credits: 240

BA (Hons) in Youth Justice

Course duration: 168 weeks

Level of study: Level 4, 5 & 6

Credits: 360

Next cohort: April 2025

Enrol now

Make an enquiry

What will I study?

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of youth justice, blending theoretical insight with practical application. You’ll examine the causes of offending behaviour, the challenges faced by children and young people, and the strategies professionals use to support them.

From understanding the development of young minds and the societal factors influencing their lives to navigating legal frameworks, you’ll build the skills and confidence to excel in this rewarding field. As you progress, you’ll build practical expertise in assessment, intervention planning, and multi-agency collaboration, all while engaging with contemporary debates on desistance, safeguarding, and social policy.

With our higher education pathways, what you'll study will depend on the qualification you choose. If you choose to complete your Certificate of Higher Education, you'll study the topics covered in Level 4. If you enrol for the full BA (Hons) in Youth Justice, you will study all modules through to Level 6.

Course modules

Level 4

Exploring Youth Justice

Introduction to Youth Justice
Child and adolescent development
Relationship-based practice
Rights, responsibilities and the legal framework
Education, training and employment
Reflective practice

Developing Practice Skills 1

Child and young person development in the youth justice system
Assessment
Safety and wellbeing
Risk of offending and risk of harm

Level 5

Effective Practice in Youth Justice

Why young people offend
Working effectively
Assessment and planning interventions
Engagement and participation
Custody and resettlement
Desistance

Developing Practice Skills 2

Engagement and communication
Effective practice
Multi-agency working and sharing information
Transitions

Level 6

Managing and Coaching in Youth Justice

Public sector management
Reforming the workforce
Implementation

Social Policy and Youth Justice

Political ideology
Children in the care of the state
Childhood and social policy
Diverse groups and needs
Children and young people’s rights
International youth justice systems

Independent Research Module (IRM) - BA (Hons) ONLY

Entry requirements?

We are firmly committed to a policy of open learning and there are no specific academic requirements for this course, but you must be employed/volunteering within the Youth Custody Service, youth justice system or allied area for at least one day a week.

We encourage applications from students of all ages and backgrounds.

When will I study?

Upcoming cohorts: April 2025, October 2025.

What career progression opportunities does this course offer me?

Our BA (Hons) Youth Justice is designed to prepare you for a meaningful and impactful career in the youth justice sector. As a graduate, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take on roles in youth justice services, social care, and other organisations dedicated to supporting children and young people.

The degree is particularly valuable for those aspiring to roles such as:

Youth Justice Officer
Caseworker or Practitioner in youth offending teams
Restorative Justice Facilitator
Advocacy and Support Worker

In addition to opening doors to specialised roles, the degree also strengthens your qualifications for broader opportunities in criminal justice, social work, and policy-making. The programme’s emphasis on practical skills, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice ensures you are well-prepared for both direct service delivery and leadership roles in the field.

What if I'm already working within the field?

For those who study this pathway and are already working within the youth justice field, the course opens doors to a wealth of knowledge and skills required for advancing in your career. For those aiming for leadership roles, our Managing and Coaching module equips you to lead teams and drive positive change in the sector.

How do our higher education pathways work?

Our flexible degree pathway allows you to work towards a full BA (Hons) degree at your own pace by earning credits one module at a time. Each module is worth 60 credits, with a total of 360 credits required to achieve a BA (Hons).

As you progress, you’ll gain standalone, recognised qualifications, starting with a Certificate of Higher Education (120 credits), advancing to a Foundation Degree or Diploma of Higher Education (240 credits), and ultimately completing the BA (Hons).

At every level, you have the flexibility to pause your studies and graduate with an accredited qualification, or you can continue adding modules to reach your desired degree level. In your final year, you’ll undertake an Independent Research Project, showcasing your skills and expertise in your chosen field.

What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

Many of our courses and modules are designed to count towards recognition of prior learning (RPL). This means that if you have previously studied a course with us, there is a likely chance that it may contribute as credit toward another - for example, if you choose to only study our Certificate of Higher Education, but decide a year later* you want the full BA (Hons), this prior learning will be recognised and it won't be necessary to study these modules in order to progress further. You'll essentially be 'one step ahead'.

*this RPL must have been awarded within a five-year period

Learning and assessment

The BA (Hons) in Youth Justice is designed with flexibility and accessibility in mind, making it ideal for working professionals. You’ll engage with a variety of online learning materials, including videos, case studies, and reading resources, allowing you to tailor your studies around your commitments and progress at your own pace.

Delivered entirely online by Unitas, a leading distance learning provider, this course enables you to access your studies from anywhere—whether on your computer or mobile device—offering the ultimate convenience in balancing education with a busy schedule.

Will I receive support throughout my studies?

Each student is allocated a dedicated Learning Coach to guide them throughout their studies, providing academic support and feedback.

They will:

✓ Provide advice and guidance on course content and on the best ways for you to study

✓ Help you to plan and prepare for assignments

✓ Mark and provide detailed, constructive feedback on your assignments

If you ever need practical and technical assistance or other advice during your course, then our Student Support Coordinators are on hand to help.

How will I be assessed?

Each block of study regularly assesses students' knowledge and understanding through a selection of reflective questions as they read through the course materials. Other forms of assessment include:

End-of-unit quizzes
Weekly tests

To complete the course and achieve the certificate of study, students will be assessed through:

Computer Marked Assignments (CMAs) which take place at the end of each block. These are online, multiple-choice tests based on what has been learnt so far.
Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs) which are written pieces of work such as essays, reports, briefing papers and reviews. These will allow students to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the topics covered.

How much does this course cost?

Our mission is to provide accessible, affordable learning that is within reach for everyone. Because of this, our courses are priced considerably lower than most learning providers and universities in the UK. With a total fee of just £7,200 for the entire BA (Hons), you can benefit from quality higher education without the financial strain.

Certificate of Higher Education: £2,400*

Foundation Degree in Youth Justice: £4,800*

BA: £6,000*

BA (Hons): £7,200*

*Price increases will be implemented 01/02/2025.

How can I fund my studies?

There are a number of payment options when it comes to funding your studies* (contact our student support team on 01603 570 365 to discuss these further).

Interest-free payment plan (self-funded)
Pay in full (self-funded)
Employer sponsorship

*For all self-funding students, a deposit will be due before the course begins.

Ready to start your journey with Unitas?

Make an enquiry

Enrol now