City

What you'll study

This MA combines theoretical perspectives on child development and learning with applied study of curriculum, assessment and leadership in early years settings. Core themes include child development across the early years, contemporary approaches to pedagogy, inclusion and safeguarding, and the relationship between policy and practice.

• Foundations of Early Childhood — major theories of cognitive, social and emotional development and their implications for environments and practice.
• Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment in the Early Years — curriculum design, play-based learning, observation and formative assessment approaches.
• Inclusion, SEND and Safeguarding — strategies to meet diverse needs, multi-agency working and statutory responsibilities in early years provision.
• Leadership, Management and Professional Practice — organisational leadership, quality improvement, staff development and working with families and communities.
• Research Methods for Practice — qualitative and quantitative methods, ethical practice, and designing practitioner-focused enquiries.
• Dissertation or Practice-based Project — an extended piece of independent study or an applied enquiry carried out in or with an early years setting, drawing on research methods taught on the course.

Delivery typically combines seminars, workshops, observed practice, practitioner enquiry and independent study. The programme is offered with flexible pathways to suit full-time students, part-time students and those in employment who want to pursue continuing professional development.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good undergraduate degree (UK second class honours or equivalent) or an appropriate professional qualification plus substantial relevant experience in early years or education. Applicants without a degree but with long-standing professional experience and qualifications may be considered on an individual basis.

• Current or recent experience working with children aged 0–8 is normally expected.
• A personal statement outlining professional experience, reasons for study and proposed area of enquiry or interest is required.
• Two references, at least one of which should be from an employer or professional refereeing the applicant's practice with young children.
• International applicants will need to demonstrate English language proficiency to the University’s required standard.
• Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check or equivalent clearance may be required for work-based elements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA Education (Early Years) progress into a wide range of roles across the early years and education sector. The programme supports career development for practitioners already working in settings as well as those moving into policy, research or leadership roles.

• Nursery manager, centre leader or senior practitioner roles in private, voluntary and maintained settings.
• Early years coordinator and curriculum development roles within schools and trusts.
• Advisory and consultancy roles in local authorities, charities and private providers focused on quality improvement, inclusion and staff development.
• Progression to doctoral study or research posts in early childhood education and development.
• Training and professional development roles, such as accredited trainer, mentor or teacher educator.

Why study at City

City, University of London offers a practice-oriented MA delivered by staff with strong links to local settings, early years providers and policy networks across London. The programme emphasises applied research and professional enquiry, enabling students to investigate issues directly relevant to their practice and build a portfolio of evidence for career progression.

• Opportunities for work-based projects and partnerships with a wide range of London early years settings.
• Access to research-active academic staff working on contemporary issues in early childhood education, inclusion and leadership.
• Flexible study options to fit around professional commitments and continuing professional development needs.
• City’s central London location gives ready access to local authority provision, charities and specialist services supporting early years practice and policy.