University of Hull

MA Early Childhood and Education

University of HullCottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX

Course overview

This flexible Masters course takes a holistic approach to the development of young children, from birth to the age of five. This course explores current critical issues within the early years landscape and explores early child development within a global context, including aspects related to child development, diversity, and culture. You’ll learn all the tools to navigate and understand the evolving landscape of childhood experiences.

Through creative inquiry, communication, and playful learning, you’ll also learn how children express themselves through play. To put your learning into practice, you’ll get the opportunity to carry out an independent research project on a real-world topic of your choice, supported by our experienced tutors who will provide guidance and mentorship throughout. You have the freedom to customise your learning journey to match your needs.

After successfully completing stage 1, you can opt for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. Alternatively, after stage 2 you can work towards achieving a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. The choice is entirely yours.

We offer modules in both the daytime and evenings, so you can find a pattern of delivery that fits with your other commitments, whether you are working, volunteering or studying full time.

Key highlights

  • Holistic focus on child development from birth to age five
  • Explores early childhood within a global context, including diversity and culture
  • Covers how children express themselves through creative, playful learning
  • Independent research project on a real-world topic of your choice
  • Exit options with a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma in Education
  • Daytime and evening modules to fit work or volunteering

Entry requirements

  • Degree: 2:2 — For this course, you'll need a 2:2 from a relevant bachelor's degree.

Scholarships

  • Alumni Postgraduate Scholarship

    If you progress from studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Hull to an eligible taught master's degree in 2025/26 we'll give you a 20% discount on the cost of your tuition fees.

    Up to 20% of fees
  • GREAT Scholarship

    Minimum of £10,000

    Up to £10,000
  • PGT International Fee Waivers – South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa

    Up to £2,000

Careers this course leads to

  • Early years practitioner
  • Nursery manager
  • Early years teacher
  • Childcare policy officer
  • Family support worker
  • Education researcher

Cost of study

UK/Home: £11,485 per year | International: £18,800 per year

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Hull, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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