MA Creative Writing
The MA Creative Writing at Leeds Trinity University is structured to help students deve...
MA Childhood and Education
Horsforth
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Childhood and Education at Leeds Trinity University offers a distinctive opportunity to deepen understanding of pressing issues and critical debates within childhood and education studies. This postgraduate degree is ideally suited for both experienced professionals seeking career advancement in associated fields and recent graduates in early childhood studies, education studies, or related disciplines who wish to expand their knowledge. Delivered by seasoned academics and practitioners, the program provides excellent preparation for progression into professional roles working with children and young people, or for those considering further postgraduate and research studies. Available in both full-time (12 months) and part-time (24 months) study modes, it offers flexibility to accommodate a diverse range of learners. The course aims to foster a critical understanding of ethical practice and policy relevant to the complex and diverse nature of childhood in contemporary society.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA Childhood and Education is meticulously designed to develop students' critical thinking and analytical skills across a wide spectrum of topics. Core modules lay a robust foundation, including 'Introduction to Postgraduate Study of Childhood, Education and Family Support,' which builds academic and reflective capacities, and 'Research Methods for Childhood, Education and Family Support,' preparing students to conduct rigorous enquiry. A pivotal module, 'Interrogating Diversity, Marginalisation and Oppression,' encourages deep knowledge and critical analysis of societal inequalities affecting children. The program culminates in a 'Dissertation or Major Study,' allowing students to undertake substantial independent research into a specific area of interest. Throughout the course, various assessment methods are employed, such as reflective portfolios, essays, seminar contributions, and presentations, often with opportunities for students to negotiate how they present their evidence, fostering confidence and practical application of learning.
Research Focus: Leeds Trinity University places a strong emphasis on research-informed teaching within the MA Childhood and Education program. Students are actively encouraged to engage with significant theoretical perspectives and contemporary research that underpins ethical practice and policy in childhood and education. The 'Research Methods' module provides essential training in methodologies suitable for the field, culminating in the development of a justified research proposal. The subsequent 'Dissertation or Major Study' offers a prime opportunity to work closely with research-active supervisors to conduct original empirical or theoretical research. The School of Children, Young People and Families, which houses this MA, has dedicated researchers focusing on areas such as social justice through education, curriculum and pedagogy, teacher education, mental health in children and young people, and special educational needs, ensuring that students benefit from a dynamic and current research environment.
Industry Engagement: While direct, mandatory placements are not a standard feature of this Master's program, the MA Childhood and Education is designed with strong professional relevance and employability in mind. The course is delivered by experienced practitioners and academics who bring their real-world insights and industry connections into the classroom. The curriculum itself is shaped by national and international policy and practice, ensuring graduates are equipped with knowledge and skills highly valued by employers in various sectors. Graduates are well-prepared for advanced professional roles in education, early years, social care, community development, and related children's services. The university's focus on producing professionals who can lead, innovate, and critically reflect on practice means that students are prepared for impactful careers, contributing to the wellbeing and development of children and families within diverse professional settings.
Global Perspective: The MA Childhood and Education program at Leeds Trinity University integrates a valuable global perspective, both through its curriculum and its diverse student body. The modules encourage students to explore the historical, economic, and global aspects of childhood and education, including the impact of changing policies and ideologies, and various international influences on children's lived experiences. This broadens students' understanding beyond the UK context, preparing them to address challenges and opportunities in an increasingly interconnected world. The university actively welcomes and supports international students, creating a multicultural learning environment where diverse viewpoints and cultural experiences enrich classroom discussions and foster a more inclusive and global understanding of childhood and education. This international outlook enhances students' readiness for careers in a globalised educational landscape.
Location
Horsforth
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 12000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 55% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 79.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Leeds Trinity University is making higher education accessible and affordable for international students. The university offers a range of scholarships designed to support students financially and recognize their academic achievements. These scholarships aim to ease the financial burden of studying abroad and provide an opportunity for students to focus on their academic and personal growth.
International Scholarships: Leeds Trinity University offers scholarships to both undergraduate and postgraduate international students to help reduce tuition fees. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and aim to assist talented students in pursuing their chosen degree programs. The university provides a significant number of scholarships to international students, helping to make their education in the UK more affordable.
International Merit Scholarships: Leeds Trinity University recognizes students with outstanding academic achievements through the International Merit Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance in their previous studies. International students who meet the eligibility criteria are awarded a discount on their tuition fees, making it easier for them to study at Leeds Trinity. These merit-based scholarships are highly competitive and reward students for their hard work and dedication.
Regional Scholarships: Leeds Trinity University offers regional scholarships to students from specific regions and countries. These scholarships aim to increase diversity and attract high-achieving students from underrepresented areas. Regional scholarships provide international students with a discount on their tuition fees and are available to students from selected countries. The scholarships not only help reduce tuition costs but also encourage students from various parts of the world to study at Leeds Trinity.
Alumni Scholarship: Leeds Trinity University offers an Alumni Scholarship for international students who have family members or relatives that previously studied at the university. This scholarship is designed to maintain the strong relationship between the university and its alumni community. Eligible international students can receive a discount on their tuition fees, making it easier for families to continue their educational legacy at Leeds Trinity University.
Sports Scholarships: Leeds Trinity University offers sports scholarships to international students who demonstrate excellence in their chosen sport. These scholarships provide financial support and access to the university's world-class sports facilities, allowing student-athletes to balance their academic studies with their athletic pursuits. Sports scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students and are aimed at fostering athletic talent alongside academic achievement.
The MA Childhood and Education program at Leeds Trinity University offers graduates a robust foundation for a variety of rewarding careers within the broad fields of education, social welfare, and community services. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree, focusing on critical issues, policy, and research in childhood and education, prepares individuals for both direct practice and strategic roles.
Education Consultant/Advisor: Leveraging their in-depth knowledge of educational theory, policy, and diverse learning needs, graduates can work as consultants advising schools, local authorities, or educational organisations on curriculum development, pedagogical strategies, inclusion practices, and policy implementation.
Educational Researcher: With strong training in research methodologies and critical analysis, graduates are well-equipped to pursue roles in academic research or within educational research institutions, contributing to evidence-based policy and practice related to childhood and education.
Policy Officer/Analyst (Education/Children's Services): Graduates can work for government bodies, charities, or think tanks, analysing existing policies, developing new initiatives, and advocating for changes that impact children's rights, welfare, and educational outcomes at local, national, or even international levels.
Special Educational Needs (SEN) Coordinator/Specialist: The MA provides a strong understanding of diversity, marginalisation, and inclusive practices, making graduates suitable for roles supporting children with special educational needs in schools or specialist settings. They can lead on SEN provision and strategy.
Curriculum Developer: Graduates can contribute to the design and development of educational programmes and resources for various organisations, including schools, educational publishers, museums, or non-profit educational initiatives, ensuring content is relevant, engaging, and inclusive.
Children's Rights Advocate/Officer: With a focus on the rights and welfare of children, graduates can work with child advocacy organisations, NGOs, or within local government to champion children's rights, investigate concerns, and ensure that services meet the needs of all children.
Lecturer/Trainer in Childhood and Education: For those who wish to pursue an academic path, the Master's degree provides a strong foundation for lecturing or teaching roles in higher or further education, training the next generation of educators and childhood professionals.
Early Years Lead Practitioner/Manager: Graduates with an interest in early childhood can move into leadership or management positions within nurseries, children's centres, or other early years settings, overseeing the educational provision, staff development, and compliance with regulations.
Family Support or Community Education Worker: While the MA is broad, its foundational modules in family support and understanding diverse childhoods equip graduates to work in roles that support families and communities through educational programs, outreach, and multi-agency collaboration.
Learning and Development Lead (Non-profits/Organisations): Graduates can apply their expertise in learning theories and educational practices in corporate or non-profit sectors, designing and delivering training programs for staff, volunteers, or specific client groups, particularly those involved in child-focused initiatives.
