MA in Early Childhood Studies

Shape brighter futures for children and families with an online MA Early Childhood Studies designed for professionals who want to make a lasting impact.

Request information Apply now

Time investment: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

Location: Online

Cost: £8,000 (regional discounts available)

Language: English

About this degree

Build expertise in early childhood education

Develop the knowledge and confidence to make a positive difference in the lives of children and families. This online MA Early Childhood Studies combines research-informed practice with contemporary approaches to leadership, policy, and pedagogy to help you strengthen your practice and support positive change.

Grounded in child-centred approaches and Froebelian principles, you’ll explore topics including inclusion, social justice, sustainability, and digital innovation while studying flexibly around your existing commitments.

Deepen your understanding of child development

Explore how children learn, communicate, and develop across diverse contexts while examining the theories and approaches that shape high-quality early years practice.

Through critical reflection and evidence-informed learning, you’ll build the skills needed to create inclusive environments where every child can thrive.

Advance your career in early years leadership

Whether you’re looking to progress into leadership, influence policy, or enhance your current role, this degree provides the knowledge and confidence to take the next step. You’ll strengthen your expertise in leadership, advocacy, and research while developing the skills needed to drive improvement across the sector.

By connecting theory with real-world challenges, you’ll graduate ready to improve outcomes for children, families, and communities.

Where you’ll be studying

Studying at the University of Roehampton

The University of Roehampton has a long-standing reputation for excellence in education and teacher training. Through flexible online learning and dedicated support, you’ll join a global community of learners while benefiting from research-informed teaching designed to help you succeed.

Enquire now

Learning outcomes

Strengthen critical thinking

Apply educational theories and frameworks to support evidence-informed practice and professional decision-making.

Design inclusive practice

Create child-centred learning environments that promote participation, wellbeing, and positive outcomes for all children.

Lead with confidence

Apply leadership principles to guide teams and support children and families effectively.

Build professional identity

Reflect on your practice and develop the confidence to adapt to changing educational contexts.

Champion positive change

Use policy and advocacy to promote children’s rights and improve outcomes across the sector.

Develop research expertise

Use research and analytical skills to evaluate practice and drive improvement across early childhood settings.

Additional information

To join this online MA Early Childhood Studies, you'll normally need a second-class honours degree from a recognised university.

We also welcome applications from non-graduates with relevant professional experience, as well as those holding third-class honours degrees. If you're unsure whether your qualifications or experience meet the requirements, we encourage you to contact the university to discuss your application.

No previous experience in early childhood education is required, making this programme suitable for professionals looking to deepen their knowledge or transition into the sector.

This programme is taught in English. If English is not your first language, you'll need to provide evidence of your proficiency through a recognised qualification obtained within the last two years.

Accepted qualifications include:
• IELTS Academic – 6.5 overall
• Roehampton English Language Test – 6.5 overall
• Kaplan Test of English – 478–509 overall
• TOEFL iBT – 89 overall
• PTE Academic – 59 overall
• Cambridge English – 176 overall

Equivalent qualifications may also be considered. If you have any questions about meeting the English language requirements, the university's admissions team will be happy to help.

Graduates from this programme develop the leadership, research, and advocacy skills needed to make a lasting impact across the early years sector and beyond.

Upon completing your online MA Early Childhood Studies from the University of Roehampton, you'll be prepared to pursue a range of roles, including:

• Early Years Leader or Manager
• Early Childhood Education Consultant
• SENCO or Inclusion Specialist
• Early Years Advisor
• Early Childhood Policy Developer
• Family Support Practitioner
• Researcher or Academic
• Lecturer in Further or Higher Education

You'll also develop the knowledge and confidence to progress into leadership positions, influence policy and practice, and advocate for children's rights and wellbeing.

For those interested in further study, the degree provides a strong foundation for doctoral research and careers in academia.

Whether you work in nurseries, schools, local authorities, charities, or community organisations, this MA will help you strengthen your practice and support positive outcomes for children, families, and communities.

To apply for the online MA Early Childhood Studies, you'll typically need to provide:
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
• A completed application form
• Supporting documents relating to your qualifications or relevant professional experience

Additional documentation may be requested depending on your individual circumstances. If you're unsure about any aspect of the application process, the university's admissions team will be happy to help.

Tuition fees for the online MA Education are £8,000 for the full programme. Fees cover your teaching, learning materials, assessments, and access to student support services.

Regional discounts may be available depending on your location. University of Roehampton graduates are eligible for a 20% tuition fee discount when returning for online postgraduate study, subject to eligibility criteria.

UK residents may also be able to apply for a Postgraduate Master's Loan of up to £12,167 through the UK Government to help cover tuition fees and living costs. International students should contact the university for information on payment arrangements and available support.