MA Education (Early Years) at Birmingham City University

Programme overview

The MA in Education (Early Years) is designed specifically for practitioners working in the early years sector and can be studied part-time alongside and in support of your day-to-day role. Each module builds upon the experience and knowledge that you bring from your professional outlook.

What you will study

The first year of the course is reflective year, structured to balance the support of sector experts Professor Chris Pascal and Professor Tony Bertram with the guidance of specialist tutors. The focus of the year is professional practice and, through two academic assignments, you will reflect upon your own specialism within early years and consider how you might influence change. You are invited to specialise in areas such as Leadership, Music, Creativity and the Arts, Mentoring, and Nurturing Childhoods. Modules include Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning, Reflecting on Early Years Professional Practice, Reflecting on Early Years Theory, Introduction to Masters Research, Enhancing your Early Years Professional Practice, Professional Enquiry (Child Study), Researching Early Years Practice, Dissertation.

Career pathways

In addition to the academic qualification and personal growth that a post-graduate course can provide, CREC offers access to early years research networks and learning communities.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants will normally be expected to have an undergraduate degree and be in current employment (paid or voluntary) in an early years service or setting. However, we recognise that the early years sector includes many individuals who have positions of responsibility without having followed the traditional academic route. Therefore we also welcome applicants who can demonstrate 'graduateness' - that is, they have have developed equivalent qualities, skills and understanding, and can bring significant professional knowledge and experience to the programme. This is determined via a written assessment. We will accept RPL applications on this route prior to enrolment.

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 3 years part-time

Explore more study programmes

Arts & Humanities