postgraduate courses early childhood education

The Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education Programs

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• A master’s degree prepares you for more high-earning careers than a bachelor’s.
• These programs typically take two years to complete and cost $320-$1,500 per credit.
• Master’s programs offer concentrations, including leadership and special education.
• A master’s can lead to elementary school teacher and instructional coordinator roles.

We know that early childhood education plays an important role in the development of our nation’s children. These programs help children develop the building blocks for socialization, academic success, independence, healthy living, and societal contributions.

But what about the people who design and lead these programs? How does their education impact their career outlook? Here, we take a closer look at the fieldwork requirements and what professional benefits a master’s in early childhood education can bring you.

If that sounds like the kind of career you want, an online master’s in early childhood education might be the best fit. Here’s how to get started:

• Explore this page to determine whether this path is the right choice for you.
• Check out the top-ranked online master’s in early childhood education programs , as well as our sponsored programs.
• Request more information from schools you’re interested in to find the best fit for your schedule, your pocketbook, and your career goals.

What Can You Do With a Master’s in Early Childhood Education?

Popular online master’s programs in early childhood education you should consider, why should i get a master’s in early childhood education degree.

A master’s in early childhood education can elevate your career in many ways. While traditional teaching roles for early childhood educators only require a bachelor’s , your graduate degree could prepare you for more job opportunities and higher earnings. You could even pursue a specialization or more advanced occupations.

Benefits of a Master’s in Early Childhood Education

• A master’s in early childhood education may lead to more advanced positions.
• Master’s degree-holders often earn more money than those with a bachelor’s.
• Graduate-level early childhood education programs provide advanced teaching skills and specializations.
• Many employers may prefer to hire candidates with a master’s degree over those with a bachelor’s.

Reasons to Get Your Early Childhood Education Degree Online

• Earning an early childhood education degree online provides more flexibility .
• Online degree-seekers can often keep working while they study.
• An online degree may offer cost or time savings.
• Online students are free from travel limitations, so they can choose from a larger pool of programs.

How Much Does an Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education Degree Cost?

Average annual tuition cost of a master’s degree.

Public Institution

Private Institution (Nonprofit)

Total Average Cost of a Master’s Degree (Two Years)

Tuition rates for an online master’s in early childhood education range widely but may cost between $320-$1,500 per credit. In-state students enrolled in public colleges tend to pay the lowest tuition costs.

However, many online master’s in early childhood education programs do not charge nonresident fees. Private schools generally charge the highest rates. Learn more about true online program costs and how these costs compare to on-campus programs .

What Are the Best Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education Programs of 2023?

Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology . We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.

Campbellsville University

• Campus + Online
• In-State $24,900
• Out-of-state $24,900
• In-State $8,473
• Out-of-state $8,473
• Retention Rate 64%
• Acceptance Rate 78%
• Students Enrolled 12,771
• Institution Type Private

Liberty University

• In-State $14,791
• Out-of-state $14,791
• In-State $7,935
• Out-of-state $7,935
• Retention Rate 81%
• Acceptance Rate 50%
• Students Enrolled 93,349

New York Institute of Technology

• In-State $38,060
• Out-of-state $38,060
• In-State $25,200
• Out-of-state $25,200
• Retention Rate 76%
• Acceptance Rate 75%
• Students Enrolled 6,851

University of West Alabama

• In-State $9,100
• Out-of-state $18,200
• In-State $6,678
• Out-of-state $13,356
• Retention Rate 63%
• Acceptance Rate 93%
• Students Enrolled 5,734
• Institution Type Public

University of North Dakota

• In-State $8,540
• Out-of-state $12,810
• In-State $11,060
• Out-of-state $16,590
• Acceptance Rate 87%
• Students Enrolled 13,615

Northwestern College

• In-State $32,700
• Out-of-state $32,700
• In-State $6,120
• Out-of-state $6,120
• Retention Rate 79%
• Acceptance Rate 74%
• Students Enrolled 1,496

Portland State University

• In-State $7,907
• Out-of-state $25,536
• In-State $14,652
• Out-of-state $22,143
• Retention Rate 75%
• Acceptance Rate 95%
• Students Enrolled 23,640

Stephen F Austin State University

• In-State $7,842
• Out-of-state $18,858
• In-State $5,262
• Out-of-state $13,524
• Retention Rate 77%
• Acceptance Rate 76%
• Students Enrolled 12,620

University of South Alabama

• In-State $7,896
• Out-of-state $15,792
• In-State $7,956
• Out-of-state $15,912
• Acceptance Rate 73%
• Students Enrolled 14,224

Alabama State University

• In-State $8,328
• Out-of-state $16,656
• In-State $7,416
• Out-of-state $14,832
• Retention Rate 62%
• Acceptance Rate 99%
• Students Enrolled 4,072

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education?

An online master’s in early childhood education program typically requires about 30-40 credits and takes about two years of full-time study to complete.

However, accelerated online tracks can lead to a degree in one year. Programs that lead to initial certification may require 48 credits. These programs require fieldwork and student teaching experience .

Required Course Credits

Field study requirements (y/n).

*Depending on your program and specialization

Concentrations for a Master’s in Early Childhood Education Degree

Concentrations enable you to pursue your area of interest in early childhood education. You can choose from special education , administration, child advocacy, or curriculum development concentrations.

When preparing for grad school , you should consider where you would like to focus your studies. A few of the many early childhood education specializations include the following:

• Trauma Studies : This concentration teaches you how to identify and address behavioral challenges that stem from trauma. Graduates can work in schools, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies.
• Special Education : This specialization focuses on the skills required to serve and teach students with special needs.
• Leadership and Advocacy : This concentration teaches you about management and advocating for policies that support and protect young children and their families.

How Much Money Can I Make With a Master’s in Early Childhood Education Degree?

Median annual wage for preschool and childcare center directors

Median annual wage for elementary, middle, and high school principals

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics , May 2021

While salaries depend on your employer and location, you can boost your earning potential with a graduate degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for kindergarten and elementary school teachers was $61,350 in May 2021. The top 10% of these teachers made over $99,420.

A master’s degree in early childhood education may improve your chances of entering high-paying jobs in the field. It can also help you access specialist positions, such as instructional coordinator. According to the BLS , the median annual wage for this occupation was $63,740 in May 2021.

What Jobs Can I Get With a Master’s in Early Childhood Education Degree?

A master’s in early childhood education gives you plenty of career options. Along with the teaching positions and child development roles available to bachelor’s graduates, you can take on leadership and specialist roles, too.

For example, you can specialize in designing instructional strategies and curriculums for a certain demographic. You might also focus on creating more inclusive or productive classroom environments.

Skills like these make you a better teacher and turn you into an educational expert qualified for administrator, analyst, and consultant roles.

Is an Online Master’s in Early Childhood Education Worth It?

The answer to this question depends on your personal goals and priorities. A master’s in early childhood education will likely give you more career opportunities and flexibility in the long run.

In the short run, however, you’re spending more time and money on education. Most early childhood education professionals want to make a difference, but you need to think about where and how you want to do this.

If teaching is your goal, a bachelor’s might be more suitable. If working behind the scenes to improve educational systems and environments is your goal, you should strongly consider a master’s degree.

Everything Else You Need to Know About Master’s in Early Childhood Education Degrees

What are the highest-paying jobs with a master’s in early childhood education.

An elementary school principal is probably the highest-paying early childhood education job for master’s graduates. According to the BLS , the median annual salary for principals was $98,420 in May 2021. The top 10% of principals made more than $153,520.

What are the 12 core early childhood education units?

The 12 core units refer to the most foundational early childhood education courses in the discipline. These early childhood education classes include some variation of the following subjects:

• Child development
• Principles of teaching
• Child and family

These fundamental classes help you to better understand young children and how best to teach them. As a result, many employers look for the completion of these courses when hiring.

Why is early childhood education important?

Early childhood education equips children for success educationally, behaviorally, and socially. During their early years, children develop foundational skills and curiosities that will drive them into adulthood.

As an early childhood educator, you are the guide and facilitator of this essential process. According to the National Education Association , children who attend early education programs:

• Develop special needs at lower rates
• Earn higher grades
• Graduate high school more often
• Earn more in their careers

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Early Childhood Education Programs

The critical importance of the early childhood education sector has never been more clear. Our programs serve state leaders and administrators, leaders of early education service organizations, directors of early education centers or programs, administrators, and coaches in public school preK programs, and philanthropists, grantmakers, and advocates.

The Zaentz Professional Learning Academy — part of HGSE’s groundbreaking Saul Zaentz Early Education Initiative — gives early educators the knowledge, tactics, and networks they need to support and sustain a flourishing early learning environment for young children. The Certificate in Early Education Leadership (CEEL) is one cornerstone — a visionary, job-embedded, online certificate program that supports the learning and development of early education leaders so they can strengthen their impact and expand their professional reach.

Program Finder

• Early Childhood

Using Data to Improve Quality in Early Education Settings

• Dec 5, 2024 - Jan 30, 2025 Price: $395.00

CEEL Series 3: Plan and Apply

• Jan 13, 2025 - Feb 7, 2025 Price: $245.00
• Jul 1, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025 Price: $245.00

CEEL Series 2: Plan and Apply

Ceel series 1: plan and apply, ceel series 2 learn a: effective approaches to leadership.

• Mar 3, 2025 - Mar 21, 2025 Price: $245.00

CEEL Series 3 Learn A: Cornerstone Educator Competencies

Ceel series 1 learn a: the science of early learning.

• Early Childhood ,

Culturally Responsive Literature Instruction

• Mar 5, 2025 - Mar 25, 2025 Price: $295.00

CEEL Series 2 Learn B: Leading Change in Others

• Apr 1, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025 Price: $245.00

CEEL Series 1 Learn B: Leading Adults for Quality Improvement

• Postgraduate study
• Postgraduate taught courses

Education: Early Childhood

Explore this course:.

Apply now for 2025 entry or  register your interest to hear about postgraduate study and events at the University of Sheffield.

School of Education, Faculty of Social Sciences

Course description

This one-year, full-time course covers a broad range of issues, encourages students to reflect on their experiences of current early childhood education policy and addresses theory and research relevant to their interests.

An open day gives you the best opportunity to hear first-hand from our current students and staff about our courses. Book now for Wednesday 27 November

1 year full-time

Teaching and learning takes place via lectures, weekly seminars, individual tutorials, discussion, active inquiry and investigations. Regular meetings with a personal tutor support and encourage your learning and understanding.

School of Education

We're proud to welcome a vibrant and diverse community, with students based locally, nationally and internationally. Our research has a direct impact on educational theory, policy and practice; we're supporting the development of children, families, schools and learning communities.

We use a variety of teaching methods to give you the opportunity to engage with your tutors and peers.

Our team of tutors at the School of Education comprises of experts in early childhood education, secondary education, policy and practice, psychological theory of education, and languages and education. Many of our academic staff are internationally recognised in their specialist areas.

Entry requirements

Minimum 2:1 undergraduate honours degree in a relevant subject.

Subject requirements

We accept degrees in the following subject areas: 

• Archaeology
• Architecture
• Biblical Studies
• International Relations
• Town and Regional Planning

We may also consider other Arts and Humanities or Social Science subjects.

IELTS 6.5 (with 6 in each component) or University equivalent

If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for a pre-masters programme in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Sheffield International College . This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school/department .

Fees and funding

Financial information for postgraduate taught courses

You can apply now using our Postgraduate Online Application Form. It's a quick and easy process.

You'll need to include a personal statement with your application.

Your personal statement: what to include

More information

[email protected] +44 114 222 8177

Courses in the Early Childhood Education program focus primarily on the development of the child from infancy through school age and explore programs and activities designed to promote children’s overall growth and well-being. Students learn, both in theory and through direct observation, ways of meeting the emotional, physical, social, and cognitive needs of the young child. Courses in the program are relevant for those seeking training for employment in childcare facilities, as well as for parents and potential parents, recreation leaders, and elementary school teachers. Students majoring in early childhood education develop a strong theoretical and practical background working with preschool-age children and their families. The program prepares students for immediate employment working as teachers or aides in childcare or other early childhood care-giving environments and provides a foundation of understanding and skills for those interested in careers providing services to children and families. Ample employment opportunities exist and salaries are increasing. Students may also prepare to transfer to four-year schools to pursue advanced degrees in child development with the eventual goal of becoming preschool directors, elementary school teachers, resource specialists, or consultants, or finding employment in related human service fields working with or in behalf of children.

Complete the following courses:

• HD 7 DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY: CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE 3 Units
• HD 15 SOCIALIZATION OF THE CHILD - CHILD, FAMILY, COMMUNITY 3 Units
• HD 101 OBSERVATION AND ASSESSMENT OF YOUNG CHILDREN 3 Units
• HD 110 PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES OF TEACHING YOUNG CHILDREN 3 Units
• HD 120 CHILD GUIDANCE AND DISCIPLINE 3 Units
• HD 131 CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT IN YOUNG CHILDREN 3 Units
• HD 145 LANGUAGE AND LITERACY FOUNDATIONS 3 Units
• HD 150 HEALTH, SAFETY AND NUTRITION OF CHILDREN 3 Units
• HD 160 ADVANCED CURRICULUM PLANNING 3 Units
• HD 181 PRACTICUM: EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS 3 Units
• HD 168 COOPERATIVE WORK EXPERIENCE: HUMAN DEVELOPMENT 1 Unit

Total Units Required: 30

Recommended electives:.

• HLTH 1 HEALTH EDUCATION 3 Units
• PSYC 1 INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY 3 Units
• SOC 1 INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY 3 Units

To earn the associate degree:

See Earning an Associate Degree    for associate degree graduation requirements.

To transfer:

Courses required for the associate degree major at IVC may not be the same as those required for the major at a four-year school. If you plan to transfer, consult a counselor to identify the courses needed for the major at your transfer school and to develop a plan that will best meet your goals. View more information about transfering at  Transfer to a Four-Year Institution   .

Third-party credentialing:

Third-party credentialing may be subject to change without notice. This information is accurate as of the publication date of this catalog. For the most current information, please consult with the area dean.

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Education (Early Childhood Studies) MA

Fees and key information, apply for this course.

Please select when you would like to start:

Many of our students are eligible for a Postgraduate Loan of over £10,000.

Use the apply button to begin your application.

If you require a Student visa and wish to study a postgraduate course on a part-time basis, please read our how to apply information for international students to ensure you have all the details you need about the application process.

Education (Early Childhood Studies) - MA

Why study this course.

This MA will provide you with opportunities to develop and enhance your professional skills and knowledge so you can progress within or embark on a career within the early childhood studies sector. This course is likely to appeal to students with an undergraduate degree in early childhood studies.

This diverse course covers a range of disciplines, drawing from areas such as curriculum theory, psychology of learning and human potential, identity and self in the early years, sociology of gender, social class, race, philosophy and the critical discourses in early childhood studies.

This degree aims to introduce you to key academic and professional debates within the field of education and an opportunity to focus on early childhood and the early years, helping you to develop a professional perspective and standpoint. Upon successful completion of this course, we hope that you will feel enthused about continuing in the sector and feel intellectually empowered to initiate change.

A key theme embedded in this master’s degree is social justice. This course is aligned with our Education for Social Justice (ESJ) framework to ensure equity in our curriculum practice.

The modules have been developed to broaden the knowledge and meaning of the term ‘education’, as well as its purpose from being a ‘product’ to understanding how the curriculum is managed and led. Education is a creative and powerful endeavour in which curriculum and pedagogy come together to support children's learning whilst widening their future life chances.

This degree can be completed as a postgraduate diploma by taking four core modules and two optional modules. You could also choose to study for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education by choosing to study the following three core modules: Critical Theory and Education; Curriculum Leadership; Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment.

We welcome applications from practising teachers and if you already hold a relevant PGCE qualification, you may be able to apply for credit and study fewer modules to complete this MA.

Feel intellectually empowered to initiate change

Explore key academic and professional debates within education, developing a perspective that will help you drive positive change in the sector

Draw on identity and self, sociology of gender, social class and race

You'll cover all of this, as well as curriculum theory, psychology of learning and human potential, and philosophy

Join a university committed to equity and inclusion

Social justice is embedded throughout this degree, ensuring our education aligns with principles of equity, with who our students are, and the challenges facing London and its communities

Course modules

The modules listed below are for the academic year 2024/25 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time.

Year modules

Critical theory and education, critical discourses in early childhood, curriculum, pedagogy and assessment, education dissertation, identity and self in the early years, research methods in education, curriculum leadership, social justice education.

You will be introduced to a range of significant critical theorists in the field of Education Studies and beyond. These writers will include Marx, Adorno, Althusser, Foucault, Bourdieu, bell hooks and Freire. Although their ideas can be carried forward into all your modules, in this one, they will be considered in relation to the neoliberal context in which the vast majority of education systems operate. In the process of doing so, key issues around the use of schools to deploy disciplinary power and to reproduce pre-existing patterns of privilege and disadvantage will be examined.

The module aims to:

defamiliarise and problematise common sense understandings of education;

provide students with a range of theoretical tools with which they can analyse educational systems and outcomes;

encourage students to develop a holistic understanding of the Scientific Revolution, the European Enlightenment, and the rise of capitalism and how these intersected with one another in creating the modern, neoliberal world;

introduce students to aspects of ontology and epistemology that problematize naïve realism.

In this module the aim is for:

You to develop an in-depth knowledge of a range of theoretical lenses through which current issues/concerns can be understood

You to explore and critically examine contemporary issues in relation to early childhood

You to consider the global, cultural, economic and political context of early childhood issues

You to explore contemporary issues (local and national) which directly impact on your work, reflecting on personal development in relation to early years practise

Module Description

This module will introduce you to the ideas of learning, pedagogy, assessment and curriculum. It is envisioned as a generic entry point into debates around key issues related to contemporary educational provision. You will be introduced to different perspectives on learning, teaching, assessment, human knowledge and models of curriculum planning. The module will encourage you to critically analyse different types of curricula and educational provisions. Doing this will enable you to appreciate the socially constructed and ideologically driven nature of educational policies and processes. The module will use the English education system as a point of reference to analyse how social, historical, economic and political processes inform and influence educational policies and provisions. This module will equip you with knowledge, understanding and skills to critically analyse curricular provision and contribute to its review and development.

Module Aims

introduce students to some key perspectives on human knowledge and important theories of learning.

familiarise students with curriculum theory and some important theoretical perspectives with a view to enable them to analyse and evaluate curricular provision.

develop in the students a critical understanding of different models of curriculum planning and development.

equip students with the skills to critically analyse educational provisions and contribute to the processes of curriculum development.

This is a core module for the MA in Education and the single most significant learning unit on the programme as it constitutes one-third of the total credit value of the programme – 60 credits.

This module requires students to conduct a small-scale qualitative research into any aspect of education.

At the beginning of the module, students are encouraged to review and refine a topic of personal/professional relevance and/or interest within the academic discipline of education that they identified in the research proposal that they would have written for the module Research Methods in Education. The are supported to refine the focus of their proposed research and operationalise it in the form of a researchable question.

The module encourages students to further explore some key debates in the philosophy of research and the emergence of the interpretivist paradigm in social research. They will be asked to locate their studies within the interpretivist paradigm and develop convincing justifications for doing so.

The students will have opportunities to develop a deeper understanding of various aspects of qualitative research methodology. This knowledge will help to devise a sound design for their dissertation research projects.

The module will help the students develop and enhance their skills of qualitative data analysis.

Throughout the module, students will be provided opportunities to develop the skills of writing a good-quality dissertation that will report the execution and findings of a small-scale, qualitative primary research project.

The module aims to enable students to:

enhance their knowledge and understanding of some of the key philosophical debates related to the ontology and epistemology of social research.

Consolidate and deepen their understanding of the purposes, nature, components, and processes of social research.

be able to design and conduct a small-scale qualitative research study in education.

be able to insightfully review and critique existing social research.

be able to confidently report the findings of a small-scale primary qualitative research study.

This module aims to:

You will be introduced to key theories in relation to babies and young children's development

You will consider the implications of these for development and learning in early and later childhood.

You will analyse the relationship between social policy and cultural contexts, and provision in early years

You will be enabled to identify and evaluate good quality early years provision

You will be enabled to reflect on their own personal development in relation to early years practise

Throughout the module, students will engage with the stages of the research process in social and educational research. The module will prepare students to develop a small-scale qualitative research proposal. Students will be encouraged to identify a research topic related to their personal/professional interest and/or interest within the academic discipline of education.

The module will enable students to understand the nature of qualitative research and the differences with quantitative research. Students will be introduced to some key debates in the philosophy of research and the emergence of the interpretivist paradigm in social research. They will be required to locate their research topics within the interpretivist paradigm and conduct a mini-literature review (including the theoretical framework) to contextualise their research.

Students will have opportunities during the lectures and seminars to develop a deeper understanding of the research process (literature review, qualitative research design, data collection, data analysis, ethical issues, subjectivity/reflexivity, writing up their research proposal).

They will be encouraged to reflect on their own research topics throughout the module.

Module aims

The module will provide students with the appropriate skills and knowledge to

understand the meaning of social and educational research and its function in creating and interpreting new knowledge; 

engage with the philosophical bases of educational research and understand the difference between the two main traditions of social research – the positivist and interpretivist paradigms. 

develop familiarity with a range of qualitative research approaches used in educational research.

explore different methods of data collection and methods of data analysis.

develop an understanding of the importance of ethical issues, reflexivity and subjectivity in qualitative social and educational research.

write a mini-literature review (including initial ideas for the theoretical framework) as part of the qualitative educational research proposal which will form a basis of the MA dissertation. 

The curriculum leadership module develops critical knowledge and understanding of curriculum policy, strategy, and leadership of learning in educational settings (formal or informal) in the context of theoretical frameworks, ideological debates, and empirical study.

The module is designed to equip students with the knowledge, understanding and skills to critically analyse how the way in which the curriculum is conceived, led, and managed influences the processes of learning and teaching as well as both educational and social outcomes.

Students will engage with a wide range of theory and research to explore questions and themes related to curriculum and leadership of learning:

What is curriculum?

What are the purposes of education and the role of the curriculum in learning?

How are different leadership models and behaviours linked with these purposes?

How does leadership shape the way the curriculum is constructed and delivered?

What influence does curriculum leadership have on student (learner) learning and outcomes and the impact on different groups of learners?

What is the concept of the hidden curriculum and how do differing leadership philosophies and approaches impact the hidden curriculum.

The module will use the UK education system as a point of reference for gaining an in-depth insight into key issues, debates and discourses surrounding curriculum leadership in general. However, students’ experience of different UK and international contexts will be used to enrich and extend the scope of the module.

Students will engage in activities that enable them to:

critically analyse how the content, delivery and assessment of a school’s curriculum are located within historical, social, cultural, economic and political contexts;

develop a critical understanding of ideological and pedagogical debates underpinning curriculum leadership;

develop a critical insight into different styles and models of curriculum leadership;

develop a critical understanding of the way different approaches to leadership influence curriculum planning, delivery, development and student learning.

This module introduces students to multiple perspectives and ideas about social justice and inequalities in education, including knowledges with which students can consider various socio-political and professional contexts for social justice in education. It explores research evidence, discourses, tensions and complexities within educational policies and practices, with respect to concerns for education (in)justices, designed to develop critical awareness and thinking around values, assumptions, agency and educational change. Students are supported to engage in critical analysis with a view to articulating and applying a position in relation to models and theories of social justice education

The module will aim to:-

• introduce students to multiple perspectives and theories of social justice;

• critically examine key aspects (social class, gender, ethnicity/race, send) of educational injustice, their intersections and relationships

• provide knowledges with which students can consider socio-political and professional contexts for educational social justice within national settings

• explore tensions within education policies and practices - structures, social relations, curricula - with respect to concerns for educational (in)equalities

• encourage students to develop and articulate a standpoint with respect to models and theories for social justice education change

Join our next virtual open event on Thursday 23 January at 5pm

Course details, entry requirements.

You will be required to have:

• a minimum of a lower second-class (2.2) honours degree in education or social sciences
• GCSE English at grade C (grade 4 from 2017) or higher (or equivalent)

If you need (or wish) to improve your English before starting your degree, we may be able to help with a pre-sessional course. Please contact [email protected] to see if we have something suitable.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Any university-level qualifications or relevant experience you gain prior to starting university could count towards your course at London Met. Find out more about applying for Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) .

English language requirements

To study a degree at London Met, you must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. If you require a Student visa (previously Tier 4) you may need to provide the results of a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as Academic IELTS. This course requires you to meet our standard requirements .

If you need (or wish) to improve your English before starting your degree, the University offers a Pre-sessional Academic English course to help you build your confidence and reach the level of English you require.

All assessment is carried out through coursework. In most cases this takes the form of either one essay of between of around 4-5000 words, or two shorter assessments, to enable assessments to build on each other and provide feed-forward opportunities for the final assessment.

The Research Methods in Education module requires the students to submit a research proposal of around 4,000 words. This research plan will form the starting point for the dissertation module the following semester.

To complete this Master’s degree, you’ll be required to carry out a small-scale research project focusing on an area of interest and relevance to yourself. This research project will have to be written up in the form of an academic dissertation of around 15,000 words.

The first part of the dissertation module will comprise of taught sessions to support the research and writing process of the various sections of the dissertation. Later in the semester, students will then move to having individual or small group supervision meetings with a dissertation supervisor as they make their way through the writing process.

Where this course can take you

This Education (Early Childhood Studies) MA benefits students whatever their interest in early childhood education, whether in management, supervisory or practitioner roles, or as a parent, teacher, researcher, community worker or administrator.

Important information about this course

If you've already studied your undergraduate degree with us, as a graduate of London Met, you'll be entitled to a 20% discount on any further study with us. * exclusions apply

How to apply

When to apply.

You are advised to apply as early as possible as applications will only be considered if there are places available on the course.

Related links

Funding your studies, frequently asked questions, accommodation, school of social sciences and professions, international students, are you from outside the uk find out how to apply from your home country, news and success stories.

Holloway Campus Tour

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Early Childhood Education Graduate Programs in America

1-25 of 233 results

Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development

• New York, NY ·
• New York University ·
• Graduate School
• · Rating 4.35 out of 5   31 reviews

Blue checkmark. New York University, Graduate School, NEW YORK, NY. 31 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says The faculty are diverse in cultural background, education, race, gender and are on your side. The students are also very diverse and are allowed to create the best pathway to achieve what they are... Read 31 reviews.

Lynch School of Education

• Chestnut Hill, MA ·
• Boston College ·
• · Rating 4.4 out of 5   5 reviews

Boston College, Graduate School, CHESTNUT HILL, MA. 5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says I am going into my second year of the Masters in Higher Education (M.A.) at the Lynch School and have greatly enjoyed my experience. Between dedicated faculty, real-world assistantships, and a... Read 5 reviews.

Colgate University

• Hamilton, NY ·

Graduate School, HAMILTON, NY.

Saint Xavier University

• Graduate School ·
• CHICAGO, IL
• · Rating 4.2 out of 5   10

Elmhurst University

• ELMHURST, IL
• · Rating 4.57 out of 5   30

College of Education and Social & Behavioral Sciences - Framingham State University

• Framingham State University ·
• FRAMINGHAM, MA
• · Rating 4.5 out of 5   2

University of Florida College of Education

• Gainesville, FL ·
• University of Florida ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   8 reviews

Blue checkmark. University of Florida, Graduate School, GAINESVILLE, FL. 8 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says The academic experience in the University of Florida's online graduate program Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Educational Technology has been exceptional. I have gained a deeper... Read 8 reviews.

Wheelock College of Education and Human Development

• Boston, MA ·
• Boston University ·
• · Rating 4.6 out of 5   5 reviews

Boston University, Graduate School, BOSTON, MA. 5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says My experience with Wheelock College has been limited since I have not officially started at the University. I have limited experience with the school and faculty. In terms of the counseling... Read 5 reviews.

College of Education - University of Illinois

• Champaign, IL ·
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign ·

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Graduate School, CHAMPAIGN, IL.

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University of Georgia College of Education

• Athens, GA ·
• University of Georgia ·
• · Rating 4.5 out of 5   6 reviews

Blue checkmark. University of Georgia, Graduate School, ATHENS, GA. 6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars. Featured Review: Doctoral Student says This program has challenged me in many ways, both positively and negatively; however, even the negative experiences have assisted my personal and professional growth for the better. The best parts of... Read 6 reviews.

Warner School of Education and Human Development

• Rochester, NY ·
• University of Rochester ·
• · Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Blue checkmark. University of Rochester, Graduate School, ROCHESTER, NY. 1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says The inclusion classes are great. Some of the professors exhibit some microaggressions, but for the most part the education is good. It is a smaller school, so everybody knows each other, which can be... Read 1 reviews.

University of Pittsburgh School of Education

• Pittsburgh, PA ·
• University of Pittsburgh ·
• · Rating 4.33 out of 5   6 reviews

Blue checkmark. University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School, PITTSBURGH, PA. 6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says I love being a student at Pitt. As a graduate student, it is definitely busy and overwhelming at times, but I have wonderful, supportive classmates and professors. The best part of this year-long... Read 6 reviews.

College of Education and Human Development - University of Delaware

• Newark, DE ·
• University of Delaware ·
• · Rating 4.67 out of 5   6 reviews

University of Delaware, Graduate School, NEWARK, DE. 6 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars. Featured Review: Alum says The University of Delaware Doctoral Program is a competitive program which prepares student's for future leadership writing, roles and experiences. The instructors are helpful, well-educated and... Read 6 reviews.

University of South Florida College of Education

• Tampa, FL ·
• University of South Florida ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   3 reviews

University of South Florida, Graduate School, TAMPA, FL. 3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Alum says I earned my Early Childhood Education degree from USF in 2002. I was enrolled in an education program with a cohort, full-time. The professors were knowledgeable and caring, and my classmates were... Read 3 reviews.

The College of Education - The University of Utah

• Salt Lake City, UT ·
• University of Utah ·

University of Utah, Graduate School, SALT LAKE CITY, UT.

• Sponsored Find Student Loan Options
• Educational Administration Graduate Programs
• Higher Education Administration Graduate Programs

School of Education and Health Sciences - University of Dayton

• Dayton, OH ·
• University of Dayton ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   4 reviews

University of Dayton, Graduate School, DAYTON, OH. 4 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Doctoral Student says The Ed.D. program is engaging and allows a student to examine organizational leadership through the lens of social justice and equity. The work is rigorous and rewarding. The people professors are... Read 4 reviews.

College of Education - The University of Alabama

• Tuscaloosa, AL ·
• The University of Alabama ·

Blue checkmark. The University of Alabama, Graduate School, TUSCALOOSA, AL.

School of Education - American University

• Washington, DC ·
• American University ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   5 reviews

Blue checkmark. American University, Graduate School, WASHINGTON, DC. 5 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says I am just starting my Education Policy and Leadership program this August. I am incredibly excited and nervous to start because I hope this is the path I'm meant to be on. I am eager to learn new... Read 5 reviews.

College of Education - University of South Carolina

• Columbia, SC ·
• University of South Carolina ·

University of South Carolina, Graduate School, COLUMBIA, SC.

College of Community Innovation and Education - University of Central Florida

• Orlando, FL ·
• University of Central Florida ·
• · Rating 4.64 out of 5   14 reviews

University of Central Florida, Graduate School, ORLANDO, FL. 14 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says Lots of mentoring and student development opportunities available. required internship at the end of program helps with real world experience Read 14 reviews.

Graduate School of Education - University at Buffalo, SUNY

• Buffalo, NY ·
• University at Buffalo, SUNY ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Blue checkmark. University at Buffalo, SUNY, Graduate School, BUFFALO, NY. 2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Alum says Great academics at a great price. Great challenge at a great price. Great experience at a great price. Great return for a great investment. Read 2 reviews.

School of Education - University of Mississippi

• University, MS ·
• University of Mississippi ·

University of Mississippi, Graduate School, UNIVERSITY, MS. 2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Alum says I like the atmosphere of the instructors in the School of Education. They exemplified a positive attitude and concern about the directions each student wanted to go relative to their major and field... Read 2 reviews.

College of Education - San Diego State University

• San Diego, CA ·
• San Diego State University ·
• · Rating 4.2 out of 5   5 reviews

San Diego State University, Graduate School, SAN DIEGO, CA. 5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says I am going into my masters program this fall but so far the program director and staff have been very attentive and helpful. I am looking forward to engaging in conversations with the cohort and the... Read 5 reviews.

University of Alabama - Birmingham School of Education

• Birmingham, AL ·
• University of Alabama - Birmingham ·

University of Alabama - Birmingham, Graduate School, BIRMINGHAM, AL. 5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says UAB is the perfect school for students that want to immerse themselves in a small-feeling large city environment while also being among a community of diverse and driven students. Everyone at UAB is... Read 5 reviews.

Graduate School of Education - Fordham University

• Fordham University ·
• · Rating 3.92 out of 5   13 reviews

Fordham University, Graduate School, NEW YORK, NY. 13 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. Featured Review: Doctoral Student says The best part of the program is that the tenured faculty are incredibly supportive and provide a highly enriched academic environment. Some of the adjunct faculty are less resourceful. One class in... Read 13 reviews.

DePaul University College of Education

• Chicago, IL ·
• DePaul University ·

DePaul University, Graduate School, CHICAGO, IL. 2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Doctoral Student says The academics are robust, yet engaging. Students are prepared to lead in their field. The courses are paced perfectly to fit everyone's schedule. Students that attend DePaul will be prepared to... Read 2 reviews.

School of Education - Biola University

• La Mirada, CA ·
• Biola University ·

Biola University, Graduate School, LA MIRADA, CA. 3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says I felt supported by my professors and staff throughout my time in the graduate program. My advisor and professors were all very willing to work with me and help me plan a realistic timeline of the... Read 3 reviews.

Duquesne University School of Education

• Duquesne University ·

Duquesne University, Graduate School, PITTSBURGH, PA. 5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars. Featured Review: Master's Student says Coursework was very engaging and helped me understand the field of counseling. The courses are designed to develop our counseling skills and our understanding of the profession. Read 5 reviews.

New York Institute of Technology

• OLD WESTBURY, NY
• · Rating 4.35 out of 5   20

University of Houston - Clear Lake

• HOUSTON, TX
• · Rating 4.64 out of 5   73

College of Education - University of Houston - Clear Lake

• University of Houston - Clear Lake ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   3

Showing results 1 through 25 of 233

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• Main details

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• Fees & funding
• Scholarships

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Postgraduate Taught

Early Childhood and Education

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Ready to make a big impact on young children and their families? Look no further.

With our MA in Early Childhood and Education, you’ll learn from some of the best in the field. This rewarding course has babies and young children at its heart and draws on subjects such as education, health studies, social work and social policy, psychology, and sociology. You’ll get a deep understanding and critical view of early childhood studies.

Choose to study whichever way suits you, either one-year full-time or two-year part-time.

with UK educational organisations

Early years

simulated learning environment

Forest School

certification opportunity

Combine theory, research

and real-life application

Study part-time

and learn alongside your career

About this course

This flexible Masters course takes a holistic approach to the development of young children, from birth to the age of five.

This course explores current critical issues within the early years landscape and explores early child development within a global context, including aspects related to child development, diversity, and culture. You’ll learn all the tools to navigate and understand the evolving landscape of childhood experiences. Through creative inquiry, communication, and playful learning, you’ll also learn how children express themselves through play.

To put your learning into practice, you’ll get the opportunity to carry out an independent research project on a real-world topic of your choice, supported by our experienced tutors who will provide guidance and mentorship throughout.

You have the freedom to customise your learning journey to match your needs. After successfully completing stage 1, you can opt for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. Alternatively, after stage 2 you can work towards achieving a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. The choice is entirely yours.

We offer modules in both the daytime and evenings, so you can find a pattern of delivery that fits with your other commitments, whether you are working, volunteering or studying full time. In 2024-25 you can choose evening modules from: Coaching and Mentoring, Early Childhood, Leadership and Management or Social Justice and Community Engagement as well as the mandatory modules shared by all pathways.

Choose your modules

For a full Masters degree, you'll study 180 credits over the duration of your course. Some programmes offer a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) qualification or a Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) qualification. For a PGDip, you'll study 120 credits, and for a PGCert, you'll study 60 credits.

Approaches to Leadership and Management in Education

This module forms an essential component of your Masters programme. It supports the development of key skills necessary for study at Level 7 including the development of core and essential skills relating to critical reflection and critical analysis, alongside an introduction to critical theory. It allows engagement with issues relating to specialist areas relevant to your programme of study, whilst also opening up avenues for broader exploration. Drawing on diverse perspectives from a range of global contexts it ensures that education is explored across broad and diverse perspectives.

Early Child Development in a Global Context

In this module you will develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of children’s development, considering critical contemporary research and international and theoretical perspectives on child development and learning. You will be taught by experts in child development and will examine varying factors that contribute to early child development, including diversity and difference. Issues relating to culture, poverty, gender or disability and key questions such as nature/nurture, which relate to our understanding of children's development, will also be explored.

Research Methodologies (Education)

You will explore cutting edge research methodologies used in education, developing your critical understanding of how they can be used to address real world problems. An inquiry-based teaching approach will enable you to work with peers to weigh the merits of each in terms of their suitability for particular contexts and issues.

Creative Inquiry, Communication and Playful Learning

This module focuses on how young children communicate their thoughts, understandings, ideas and emotions through their play. The module encourages you to consider the interconnected nature of children's representational language through play-based activity, such as mark-making, modelling, drawing, role play, construction, movement, music, dance and how children more broadly think imaginatively and creatively.

Extended Research Project (Education)

This module provides you with an opportunity to apply your knowledge and research skills in the field of education. Supported via dedicated course tutors, your dissertation supervisor and high-quality workshops and online content, you will undertake an independent research project on a topic related to your programme of study. This will allow you to apply your skills in real-world contexts and gain an understanding of conducting and reporting on research. This module will help you develop key transferable skills for both the workplace and further study. 

All modules are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.

Important information

Our team of highly respected and experienced tutors are all experts in their specialisms.

Taught by a team of experts in the fields of education, social care, health, inclusion and therapeutic approaches, you’ll gain real, practical knowledge that will be invaluable in your future career.

See more academics for this subject

Dr Jo Traunter

Jo’s teaching and research interests are in early childhood education and care. She brings over 20 years’ experience of different early years teaching methods and activities to her role as Head of Subject for Education, Childhood and Youth Studies.

An experienced early years practitioner, Kerrie's research focuses on how environment, space and place interact and shape the lives of young people. She is working on a consultation for new projects to support early years in museums and galleries.

• International

What do I need?

Applicants should have a minimum of 2.2 Honours degree ( or international equivalent ) in a relevant subject. 

If you have a 2.2 Honours degree in another subject area with evidence of relevant professional experience, this will be taken into account. 

This degree is for anyone who is interested in Education in its widest sense; it will not qualify you to teach.

If you’re an undergraduate student at Hull, you’re guaranteed a fast-track route to this postgraduate degree, as long as you meet the entry requirements.

In order to ensure our students have a rich learning and student experience, most of our programmes have a mix of domestic and international students. We reserve the right to close applications early to either group if application volumes suggest that this blend cannot be achieved.

If you require a student visa to study or if your first language is not English you will be required to provide acceptable evidence of your English language proficiency level.

This course requires academic IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each skill. See other English language proficiency qualifications accepted by the University of Hull.

If your English currently does not reach the University’s required standard for this programme, you may be interested in one of our English language courses .

Visit your country page to find out more about our entry requirements.

Fees & funding

How much is it.

Your tuition fees will cover most costs associated with your programme. There are some extra costs that you might have to pay, or choose to pay, depending on your programme of study and the decisions you make:

• Books (you can borrow books on your reading lists from the library, but you may buy your own)
• Optional field trips
• Study abroad (incl. travel costs, accommodation, visas, immunisation)
• Placement costs (incl. travel costs and accommodation)
• Student visas (international students)
• Laptop (you’ll have access to laptops and PCs on campus, but you may want your own)
• Printing and photocopying
• Professional-body membership
• Graduation (gown hire and photography)

Remember, you’ll still need to take into account your living costs. This could include accommodation, travel, food and more.

How do I pay for it?

UK students can take out a Masters Loan to help with tuition fees and living costs. For 2024 entry, they provide up to £12,471 for full-time and part-time taught and research Masters courses in all subject areas. Find out more about Postgraduate Loans .

If you choose to study part-time, fees are charged pro-rata to the full-time fee, according to the number of credits being studied. 

International applicants may need to pay a tuition fee deposit before the start of the course. Visit our tuition fee deposit page for more information.

You can find more information on our Money page for details of how to pay.

Our scholarships

We offer a number of awards, bursaries and scholarships for eligible students. They’re awarded for a variety of reasons including academic achievement and/or to help those on lower incomes.

Scholarships and bursaries are separate to student loans. And the best bit is, you don’t pay a penny back.

Find out more about our scholarships

Alumni Postgraduate Scholarship

University of Hull undergraduates progressing to a taught masters course may receive a 25% discount on the cost of their tuition fees.

Find out if you’re eligible by visiting the University of Hull Alumni Postgraduate Scholarship page.

International Scholarships and Bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries for international students.

To find out more and see if you're eligible, please visit the International Scholarships and Bursaries  page.

Take a look at our facilities

Forest school training centre.

You could access our Forest School Training Centre with outdoor classroom, gardens, wooded areas and wildflower meadows.

Brynmor Jones Library

Our seven-story library is a superb learning space. As well as more than a million books, there’s a variety of study areas, over 400 open-access PCs and one amazing view.

Specialist Early Years Room

You could access our simulated early years learning environment. An engaging, inclusive space with a range of materials, resources and technology.

Group Lecture Room

Collaborate in group lecture rooms working as part of our vibrant community of students and staff who all share an interest in developing excellent learning opportunities for others.

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Look around

Our Masters courses mirror the high demand for highly reflective practitioners with excellent critical thinking skills.

The opportunities for graduates in children’s and young people’s services are varied and wide.

Potential future careers include researcher, portage worker, children’s centre practitioner, family support worker, early years practitioner and child support worker.

Your next steps

Like what you’ve seen? Then it’s time to apply.

Make your application online now, and our admissions team will get back to you as soon as possible to make you an offer.

Not ready to apply?

We regularly deliver virtual and on-campus events to help you discover your perfect postgraduate course, whether it’s a subject you already love or something completely different. Our events are an opportunity for you to chat to tutors and current students and find out about the career options a postgraduate degree could lead to.

You may also be interested in…

Ma professional practice in education, ma higher education practice, ma special educational needs, disabilities and inclusion, ma leadership and management in education, ma education.

All modules presented on this course page are subject to availability and this list may change at any time.