Course summary

Join our interdisciplinary Childhood and Early Years Studies MA. Gain a deeper understanding of the internal and external factors affecting children and early years and specialise in this area of expertise to really make a difference to young people's lives. The socio-cultural, economic and political contexts in which we live shape who we are. It is often argued that childhood is a social construction, but the role of space and place in shaping children’s everyday lives is not always understood. This course will provide a deep understanding and knowledge of children's rights and the lived realities of children's diverse experiences. You will explore ideologies and examine how today's society impacts children to help discover ways to change their experiences for the better. The course is aimed at those from any undergraduate background with an interest or specialist need to advance their knowledge in Childhood and Early Years. This MA provides a robust theoretical framework enabling you to develop an integrated understanding of study in this area. Whether you are a lawyer working with children, an architect designing a children's space - this course covers a variety of internal and external factors that affect children from political and social contexts to how children use media and culture. Our interdisciplinary course has a strong emphasis on social sciences and humanities and includes perspectives drawn from sociology, developmental psychology, social policy, geography, cultural studies, literature and anthropology. The course encourages reflection on the principles of promoting the rights and interests of all children and young people globally; understanding the diversity of experiences in childhood and youth; and the importance of encouraging children and young people's participation in decisions and debates about their lives.The course also encourages an understanding and application of a range of pedagogical theories and practice and how they experience social differences and inequalities or develop a sense of belonging.