Entry requirementsEntry Requirements Students are usually expected to have a good honours degree in a relevant subject and to be employed in early years settings. However, applications from non-graduates with specialist experience are welcome.
Academic titleMA in Early Years Education
Course descriptionThis is a lively time for those involved in provision for young children in Wales. The introduction of the Foundation Phase, with its emphasis on understanding children’s learning and their well being is both challenging and exciting.
The MA in Early Years Education, firmly established at Trinity since 2000, offers a unique opportunity to study at this level at this crucial time for all those interested in young children’s learning.
Course Content
The course aims to increase students’ knowledge and understanding of the learning processes of young children. Students will be encouraged to take a critical approach to theories and beliefs about children’s learning and to consider the role of adults in that learning.
Course Content and Framework
This is a modular course with mandatory modules. These include:
* The Young Child Learning: Birth to three
* The Young Child Learning: Three to Six
* The Challenging Adult: the role of adults in young children’s learning Optional modules include:
* Language, Literacy, and Communication in the Early Years
* Scientific and Mathematical Development in the Early Years
* Creativity in the Early Years
* Children in Society
* ‘Learning to be Good’: PSE in the Early Years
* Reggio Emilia: Challenges and Opportunities
* Learning in the Outdoor Environment
The course will focus throughout on the remarkable nature of children’s learning: what they learn, how they learn, why they learn, and the role of adults in that exciting process.
On successful completion of the three mandatory modules, students will be eligible to exit the course with the University of Wales Postgraduate Certificate in Early Years Education. On successful completion of the 6 modules, students will be eligible for a University of Wales Postgraduate Diploma in Early Years Education or the Diploma in Foundation Phase Practice. Students wanting to progress to the MA will undertake a research module.
Assessment
All modules have two assessment methods: written assignment and seminar presentation. This approach is taken in order that students are given maximum opportunities to provide evidence of the depth of knowledge and understanding in relation to the learning outcomes of the modules.
Course Duration and Mode of Study
Two years (part-time) for the taught part of the degree and up to 4 years to complete the dissertation. Delivery is flexible with either evening and/or weekend seminars, lectures, and workshops