MA Childhood Studies

Program Overview

The MA in Childhood Studies at the University of Leeds is an interdisciplinary program that draws on fields such as sociology, psychology, education, and social policy. This program provides students with the opportunity to engage critically with current debates in childhood studies, focusing on issues such as child welfare, education, rights, and global childhood inequalities. With a strong emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, the program is designed to prepare students for careers in areas such as child advocacy, policy development, education, social work, and international development. The course aims to foster a deep understanding of the experiences of children and young people, as well as the impact of social, cultural, and economic factors on their lives.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA in Childhood Studies at the University of Leeds covers a broad range of topics that allow students to explore the different dimensions of childhood. Core modules typically include Introduction to Childhood Studies, Childhood and Social Policy, Children's Rights and Social Justice, and Research Methods in Childhood Studies. These modules provide students with a solid foundation in understanding the key issues affecting children in both local and global contexts. Additionally, students can choose from a variety of optional modules that focus on specific areas of childhood studies, such as Children and the Law, Psychological Development in Childhood, Global Childhoods, and Early Childhood Education and Care. The program culminates in a dissertation where students undertake independent research on a topic of their choice, allowing them to apply their learning to a specific issue in the field of childhood studies.

Research Focus: The MA in Childhood Studies at the University of Leeds has a strong research focus, supported by the university's reputation as a leading research institution. The program is taught by academics who are actively engaged in pioneering research in childhood studies, addressing issues such as children's rights, child protection, youth culture, and childhood in global contexts. Students are encouraged to engage with current research debates and to conduct their own research projects, which contribute to the understanding of childhood experiences and policy. The university's research centers and links with child-focused organizations provide students with access to the latest developments in the field, ensuring they are exposed to cutting-edge research and innovative approaches to childhood studies.

Industry Engagement: The MA in Childhood Studies at the University of Leeds emphasizes the importance of industry engagement and practical experience. The program provides opportunities for students to collaborate with child-focused organizations, charities, social services, and educational institutions. Through placements, internships, and guest lectures from industry professionals, students gain insight into real-world challenges and solutions in the field of childhood. The university also has strong partnerships with local and international organizations that work in child advocacy, education, and policy, providing students with the chance to apply their learning in professional settings. This industry engagement ensures that students are well-prepared for careers in diverse fields related to childhood and child development.

Global Perspective: The MA in Childhood Studies incorporates a global perspective, reflecting the increasingly interconnected world in which children grow up. The program explores childhood from an international standpoint, considering the experiences of children in different cultural, social, and economic contexts. Topics such as global child rights, migration and displacement, and the impact of international development policies on children are integral to the curriculum. Students are encouraged to think critically about how global issues such as poverty, conflict, and inequality shape children's lives and to consider the role of international organizations in addressing these challenges. By fostering a global outlook, the program equips students with the skills needed to work in international development, policy-making, and advocacy for children worldwide.