MA Childhood Studies and Early Years

COURSE OVERVIEW

Recognise and champion the uniqueness of every child as you take an holistic 'whole child' approach to the study of children and the issues that affect them and their families. Using the latest research, you will explore the theoretical and conceptual terrain of childhood to inform and develop your own practice. This course will enable you to specialise your study through two distinct routes - Early Years and Children & Young People.

The Early Years route will see you apply a critical lens to young children's education and care within a variety of settings. The Children and Young People route will focus more closely on critically examining concepts, contexts and practice related to childhood.

We recognise that children are active social agents and meaning makers with the ability to both interpret and shape their social worlds. Therefore, each module has been designed to highlight the importance of the child's voice and children's participation.

To fit around your working patterns and personal commitments, you can study over one, two or three years through day, evening and Saturday face-to-face sessions or online via our Virtual Learning Environment.

You can study this course over one, two or three years. It's delivered through day, evening and Saturday sessions or via distance learning to fit around your working pattern.

This course is valuable if you want to explore contemporary issues about children's and young people's social, political, cultural and educational lives in a global context. We have students from a variety of professional backgrounds on the course which encourages a significant number of valid and relevant perspectives in class discussions. We also draw ideas from a great variety of academic disciplines including history, geography philosophy, psychology, sociology and anthropology. All of these things mean that you will come away from your course with a broader and more developed view of the sector and what children and young people need today.

TEACHING & LEARNING

Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.

Our silver status in the latest Teaching Excellence Framework, reflects our commitment to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.