Education (Early Childhood Studies)

You’ll gain a deep insight into early childhood. You'll investigate and examine:

• Theoretical perspectives of early childhood, including sociocultural and posthuman approaches
• The importance of play and playfulness in practice and theory
• Ethical and political dimensions of early childhood education
• International perspectives and approaches to early childhood
• The theoretical and practice links between play and creativity
• Children’s engagement with materials and its importance for wellbeing.

Trimester one
In your first trimester you'll undertake modules which provide a firm foundation for your Master's in Education. You'll have opportunities to evaluate and critically analyse issues and challenges whilst focusing on political, ethical, cultural and social issues both in early childhood and in education in general.

The course draws on theoretical insights into the study of early childhood which challenge and inspire, whilst considering the impact of national and international trends. Children’s right to play and to learn through play are important features in this first trimester and throughout the course.

Trimester two
In your second trimester, you'll explore perspectives on play and creativity while beginning to consider the focus for your dissertation as you engage with research methodology and the importance of research in early childhood education.

Trimester three
In your third trimester you'll study and research an aspect of early childhood education theory, policy, or practice in depth for your final 16,000 word dissertation. You'll be guided by a supervisor and will also be able to attend research seminars and workshops if you wish. The dissertation is an opportunity to explore and critique a topic of your choice (related to early childhood studies) and is a fitting way to complete your Master’s journey at Bath Spa.

This course includes or offers the following modules. Please check the programme document for more information on which modules are core, required or optional.

• Education and Society
• Research Methods in the Social Sciences
• Dissertation
• Early Childhood: Education, Culture and Society
• Perspectives on Play and Creativity
• Research and Professional - Part 1 (part-time students only)
• Research and Professional - Part 2 (part-time students only)

There are no written exams on this course; each module is assessed through coursework.

You’ll be taught through lectures and small group seminars. There are also individual tutorials and good opportunities for extended discussion with tutors. Analysis of ideas through discussion is the key to teaching and learning in the programme. Some lectures and seminars occur during the day. Others take place from late afternoon.

To find out more about how we teach and how you'll learn, please read our Learning and Teaching Delivery Statement.

Governments worldwide are now making early childhood education a priority and increasing their investment in provision for young children. You’ll acquire specialist expertise in an area of education that is rapidly expanding and opening up new career opportunities.

You'll be taught at our Newton Park campus.

You'll have access to Bath Spa University's:

• Computing and IT facilities
• Library
• Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)
• Academic Skills (ASk)
• English Language Unit.