Overview

    Applications for this course will open shortly. Please check back here for updates.

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    Shape the future of young learners with our MA Early Years Education, a course designed for passionate postgraduates who are ready to make a meaningful impact on early childhood learning and development.

    This postgraduate degree will provide advanced knowledge, critical insight, and reflective expertise to help you navigate the complexities of early years education and lead positive change in the field.

    What you’ll learn

    • Develop advanced understanding of early years theory, research, and practice.
    • Critically evaluate policy and pedagogy to influence early education outcomes.
    • Apply research-informed strategies to improve professional practice.
    • Collaborate within a global community to exchange diverse educational perspectives.
    • Enhance your leadership and reflective skills for career progression or further doctoral study. 

    Through an interdisciplinary approach, you’ll explore how theory, research, and practice come together to influence early years pedagogy, policy, and professional practice.

    You’ll engage with international perspectives and contemporary debates, developing the confidence and analytical skills to shape educational outcomes and drive innovation in early years settings.

    Taught by a team of experienced academics and practitioners, this course offers expert mentorship and personalised support in a collaborative learning environment.

    Beyond traditional education settings, this MA in Early Years Education will prepare you for roles in children’s support services and other educational organisations where you can apply your expertise through a progressive and holistic framework. 

    The MA has genuinely changed both the direction of my career and my confidence and knowledge as a practitioner. The opportunity to reflect on and study in depth areas of education that are of most interest to me has allowed me to develop a professional expertise that I might otherwise not have pursued in any detail.

    Why study at CCCU?

    Find a scholarship

    See which scholarships and bursaries we have for our postgraduate students. These change throughout the year so keep your eye out for any new awards.

    Why choose CCCU for postgraduate study

    From industry connections to a supportive community, there are many reasons why you should choose to study with us. Read why you should become a part of CCCU.

    Get 20% off your fees

    If you're a CCCU alumni, then you can get 20% off your course fees, depending which course you want to study. Find out more here.

    Entry requirements

    A good undergraduate degree (2:2 or above) and two supporting academic/professional references. If English is not the first language an IELTS overall score of 6.0 is required, with no element below 5.5.

    We recognise that some applicants may not meet these standard requirements, yet may be desirable candidates with other and appropriate skills and knowledge. In this case they may be offered the opportunity to complete an orientation module or a portfolio to demonstrate their ability to work at level 7. Applicants may be asked to attend an interview.

    The University accepts non-UK qualifications equivalent to those outlined above and confirmed through NARIC. For IELTS and other English Language requirements, please visit our dedicated web page.

    2:2
    Undergraduate degree

    Module information

    Core/optional modules

    *Modules subject to approval

    How you’ll learn

    Our blended learning approach combines in-person teaching with self-paced online learning through recorded lectures.

    You’ll engage in lectures and seminars that encourage discussion, collaboration and critical thinking, supported by independent study in a well-resourced online environment. 

    This flexible approach ensures you can balance your studies with professional and personal commitments while benefiting from a rich, interactive learning experience.

     

    Alongside seminars and academic skills sessions, much of your MA Early Years Education learning takes place through independent study. You will engage in self-guided activities designed to deepen your understanding, build professional skills, and support your progression as an Early Years practitioner or leader.

    Independent study typically involves reading academic texts, journals, and research to explore key concepts and current debates. You may also conduct small-scale research projects or investigations related to your chosen modules, prepare assignments by planning, drafting and revising essays, reports or reflective portfolios, and use online resources, discussion boards and interactive activities to complement seminar learning.

    Reflective practice is another key element, encouraging you to evaluate experiences, refine your professional perspective and integrate theory with practice.

    It is recommended that you dedicate approximately 10-15 hours per week to independent study in addition to your 3-hour seminar sessions. This ensures sufficient time to engage with readings, complete assignments, conduct research and fully participate in all aspects of the course.

    By combining structured teaching with independent study, you will develop the skills to critically analyse Early Years theory, conduct research, and apply learning in practice, preparing you for advanced professional roles or further study in the Early Years sector.

    You’ll learn from a team of experienced academics and Early Years practitioners, dedicated to supporting your professional development. Our staff bring together research expertise, practical experience and teaching excellence to ensure you gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insights.

    With qualifications including doctoral degrees, postgraduate teaching qualifications and specialist certifications in early childhood education, their expertise spans Early Years, primary and higher education. This breadth of knowledge allows you to explore Early Years education from multiple perspectives and apply your learning directly to your professional context. You’ll benefit from personalised guidance, mentorship, and feedback, helping you grow into a reflective, informed, and innovative Early Years education professional.

    At Canterbury Christ Church University, learning is a collaborative journey where curiosity meets guidance, conversations inspire growth, and educators and students shape each other’s paths.
    Dr Marios KostasMA Education, Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Education

    How you’ll be assessed

    Assessment methods are designed to showcase your strengths through a variety of formats, including essays, case studies, presentations, research proposals and portfolios. These approaches not only highlight your academic achievements but also help you build essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving and effective communication that are vital for a successful career in early years education.

    Your future career

    Graduates of the MA in Early Years Education are ready to lead, innovate, and make an impact. The course prepares you for senior roles such as Early Years leader, nursery manager, or deputy head of an early years setting, as well as specialist positions including consultant, curriculum developer, or education advisor.

    You can also progress into higher education or research as a lecturer, research associate, or doctoral researcher, contributing to professional development, training, and educational policy across early years settings, local authorities, and educational organisations. 

    The MA offers a clear pathway for further study, including PhD or specialist postgraduate qualifications in leadership, Early Years pedagogy, or curriculum development. Completing this course gives you the confidence, expertise, and professional credibility to shape the future of Early Years education and make a lasting difference in your career.

    The programme is designed with employability at its core. Every module, seminar, and research project is carefully structured to develop the skills, knowledge, and professional confidence you need to progress into leadership, specialist, and research roles in early years education and make a real impact in your career.
    Dr Marios Kostas Course Director MA Education, Senior Lecturer in Early Years Education

    Fees

    2026/27 Tuition fees for this course

      UK Overseas
    Full-time £9,835 £17,000

    20% Alumni Discount

    We offer alumni discounts on CCCU Postgraduate Taught, PGCE Primary and Secondary, and Master's by Research courses for eligible students.

    Find out about eligibility for the discount.

    Important Information on Tuition Fees

    Tuition fees for all courses which last more than one academic year are payable on an annual basis, except where stated.

    There will be an annual inflationary increase in tuition fees for this course where the course lasts more than one academic year. For further information read the Tuition fee statements and continuing fee information.

    Apply now

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    Duration:

    1 year

    Location(s):

    Canterbury