• Excellent reputation: Ranked 1st as best university provider for Teacher Training in the UK (NSS, 2020-21).
• Local industry connections: Benefit from our strong partnerships with over 300 schools and training providers across Hertfordshire, London, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Cambridgeshire.
• Employment prospects: Graduates have become successful practitioners within early years settings, as well as progressing onto further study and research.

• an honours degree (2:2 or higher) in a relevant subject such as Education, SEND, Childhood Studies, Social Sciences, Coaching, Mentoring or Counselling or other related fields. Other degree qualifications will be considered depending upon relevant professional experience in an educational context such as schools and colleges.Overseas awards need to be recognised as equivalent by NARIC
• English language GCSE Grade 4 (iGCSE Grade C) or above or equivalent
• a short personal statement (no more than 500 words) explaining why you are interested in education and any relevant experience (professional or voluntary) that might support your application
• a work or academic reference.

Applicants from non-majority English speaking countries must provide evidence of English language proficiency, equivalent to overall IELTS score 6.5 with a minimum of 6.5 minimum in Writing and 5.5 in all other bands.  

For country specific qualifications, please visit our Your Country page.

If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-Sessional English 
may help you to achieve this level.

More information about English Language qualifications is available on our International pages.

Many of our students join our Programme having already gained 'M-Level' or 'Level 7' credit from previous master’s level study – for example from a PGCE or accredited short course. Such credit in relevant subjects may be considered for accreditation through the APCL process and thereby exempt students from specific modules on our MA Programme.

Non-accredited masters level study in relevant subjects may be accredited through the APEL process. This must be completed prior to beginning study on the programme.

Why choose this course?

This MA Early Childhood Education award aims to equip students to enhance service provision at nursery, local and national level becoming or preparing to become a change agent in their own practice and in early childhood practice in general. Students will build on and deepen their knowledge and understanding of practice and theory in relation to child development, curriculum design and pedagogical leadership

Through this programme you will:

• develop and deepen your knowledge and understanding of issues relating to education practice through critical reflection, analysis and enquiry
• develop your ability to critically analyse educational theory and how it links to practice
• become a member of a supportive learning community and learn from professionals from a range of educational settings
• become a successful practitioner researcher.

We are proud to have ranked 10th for education in the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES, Advance HE, 2023). You can be confident in knowing you're receiving an exceptional learning experience when you study this course.

What will I study?

Taught sessions are built around discussion, discovery, shared learning and peer review with tutor support and expertise immediately at hand. All modules are constructed so that the focus of the work should be upon your individual interests and professional requirements.  

• For each 30 credit module, attendance at up to 10 twilight sessions per module (or equivalent)
• A significant amount of private study and reading
• Independent research
• An assignment of 4,500 words or equivalent for 30 credit modules
• A final 60 credit module over a year with a 12,000 word assignment
• Full access to the University’s Learning Resource Centre (LRC) and virtual learning environment