Early Childhood Studies

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This course is for people who aim to advance their knowledge of young children's learning and development. Through studying this course, you will enhance your understanding of early childhood education and care, from birth to age eight. You will also develop your research skills.

If you have a first degree in early childhood studies, childhood studies, education, or a related subject, this course will give you the opportunity to look in greater depth at aspects of young children's lives, and examine current policies, in order to build upon your own interests and gain a higher level qualification.

The course is also designed for people who are working with young children (for example, foundation stage teachers, graduates working in children's centres, or other early years practitioners) and for college lecturers in childcare and education who would like to study further to extend their professional development. We also welcome parents, volunteers, and others with a personal interest in this interesting and important subject.

International MA students are encouraged to join the course, as we enjoy dialogues about developments in early childhood education and care in different countries. In recent years, conversations with colleagues from around the world have been fostered through conferences run by the Early Childhood Research Group and we are keen to expand this community of enquiry.

Core modules

* Early Childhood: Interdisciplinary Perspectives (30 credits)
* Early Childhood Research Methodology (30 credits)
* Major Project (60 credits)

Optional modules

* Comparing Outdoor Learning Experiences
* Early Years Pedagogy
* Professional Enquiry for Early Childhood

You will choose two optional modules from the above list.

Assessment
Assessment is via different types of presentations and written assignments. For each 30 credit module there is an assessment of up to 8,000 words (or equivalent). The Major Project is usually a written research report of 18,000 words. There are no examinations on this course.

First degree at 2.2, should be in Early Childhood Studies, Education or a related subject (e.g. psychology, sociology, philosophy, history, cultural studies, health and / or social care, law, politics, social policy and economics etc.) Preferred: Criminal Records Bureau check, enhanced disclosure (necessary before fieldwork / research can be undertaken in early childhood settings). This is not an essential course requirement, as the pathway can be successfully completed with a focus on theory and literature, but students without a current CRB or unable to obtain one will not be able to engage in any direct work with young children in early childhood settings. Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 60 (Grade C) TOEFL paper-based test score : 600 TOEFL iBT® test: 100 IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.