Master of Arts
Masters-level Course
MA Early Childhood Studies
This context creates an exciting backdrop in which to further develop the Masters Level programme – the MA in Early Childhood Studies at Stranmillis University College. The course will: • Develop and enhance the knowledge and skills of early years practitioners as they improve the outcomes and opportunities for children, families and communities; • Provide new opportunities to study in this specialised field of Early Childhood Studies; • Deepen student's capacity to manage their own learning. Who is the course for?
The MA in Early Childhood Studies will appeal to all those professionals who work to further the education and care of young children and who are already qualified to undergraduate level in an educational or social science area. It will be attractive to teachers, early years practitioners, social workers and development officers in both statutory and non-statutory agencies, to name but a few. Duration This programme is offered on both a full time (1 year) and part time (2-3 years) basis and will offer participants the ability to select from modules offered collaboratively by Stranmillis University College and by the Queen's School of Education. Course Structure • Four taught modules (each worth 30 Masters level points) and a dissertation (worth 60 Masters level points); • Is delivered using a blend of individual and collaborative teaching methods; • Uses Queen's Online (virtual learning environment) to provide flexibility; • Capitalises on the community of learners who engage in the course. Modules
Critical Perspectives on Early Years Care and Education International Perspectives in Early Years Care and Education Methods and Methodologies in Educational Research Advanced Theoretical Perspectives in Early Years Quality Pedagogy in Early Years Care and Education Understanding Inclusion in Society Learning Integrated Services in Early Years Child Development Dissertation Assessment
Assessment is through coursework, including written assignments, seminar presentations and a dissertation.
Student Commitment Full time: Student will complete 4 taught modules and double dissertation in one calendar year. Part time: Student usually completes one module per semester. Teaching patterns vary between modules and some of the modules may be delivered at Queen's University Belfast.
Admissions Each application will be considered on its own merit.
Candidates would normally: Hold a BA in Early Childhood Studies or a professional teaching qualification, both with an upper second class honours degree or equivalent in Education or the Social Sciences. Candidates who do not possess the above degree classification, may be considered for entry if they can demonstrate evidence of additional professional development. Further advice on this matter can be obtained from the Programme Leader or Academic Registry.
Credit Transfer All students who successfully complete a PGCE at Masters level will be eligible to apply for 30 M Level credit points towards a Masters qualification.
Financial Arrangements The course fee will be £600 per module (subject to confirmation) and may be paid by credit card.
What Stranmillis Offers High quality teaching led by a team which has significant experience in the provision of high quality undergraduate and postgraduate courses, especially in the field of early years; A lively and diverse student community; Consistent high ranking in National Student Survey and other university league tables. APPLICATION
MA Early Childhood Studies Applicaton Form Entry 2010
Further information about the course may be obtained from:
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Within Northern Ireland, services directed at the education and care of young children in the age phase 0 – 8 years have seen unprecedented growth and development in recent years. Initiatives such as Sure Start and the implementation of the Foundation Stage of the revised Northern Ireland Curriculum have brought early years issues to the fore. This trend is undoubtedly continuing with further recent investment in early years services by the government. 
