MA Education (Early Childhood Studies) at Bath Spa University

Early childhood education is recognised globally as being crucial for laying the foundations for lifelong learning and development, as critical aspects of social, emotional and cognitive development are established in a child’s early years.

During the course, you’ll develop your knowledge and understanding of how children develop and learn in social and cultural contexts. You’ll be introduced to different pedagogical approaches, including international perspectives, that will encompass a critical analysis of the cultural construction of childhood.

This Master's in early childhood education incorporates modules that will enhance your understanding and insights into developing quality educational provision for young children.

You’ll gain a deep insight into education. We’ll teach you to question:

• The nature of learning and teaching is in different countries and cultures
• The relationship between education and the economy
• How education is changing as it becomes marketed
• How education systems are managed
• Who takes decisions about the curriculum and teaching
• How far governments go (and how far they should go) to control education
• What the role of professional educator is
• The role schools and universities may take on in the future
• The role of education in the knowledge economy
• Whether education is becoming an instrument of capitalism.

Careers

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.