About MA Childhood Studies in University of Suffolk

MA Childhood Studies is a taught Masters programme which takes an informed and critical approach to the academic study of childhood studies and is underpinned by a children’s rights approach. This programme would be of interest to undergraduates looking to progress to the postgraduate level and professionals interested in specialised or advanced study of childhood. 

The MA Childhood Studies is an interdisciplinary course with a strong emphasis in the social sciences, including perspectives drawn from sociology, history, English, social policy and anthropology. The course is informed by the United National Rights of the Child (UNCRC) framework and is committed to a child-centred philosophy. Modules will reflect on the principles of protecting the rights and interests of children and young people, and the increasing importance of their participation in these discussions. This course explores the diversity of childhoods, from local issues to global trends, and puts a focus on the international conceptions of what a child is and how to advocate and support children. This curriculum is continually updated and developed to reflect the changing landscape of children's rights. 

Career Opportunities

The curriculum encourages students to develop their own interests and professional practice through the dynamic study of childhood. This postgraduate programme supplements an undergraduate degree and provides an advanced understanding of current, and challenging issues facing practitioners, including good practices for diversity and inclusion, trauma and risk, and social justice. In the current move towards evidence-based practices, the research skills gained through this degree will help to enhance your career prospects and give you the leading edge on current practice. A postgraduate degree can help you advance to work on an international level for governmental agencies, charities and public bodies or to take up a leadership position within your current workplace. A postgraduate degree also gives you advanced knowledge and skills needed for further study, such as a PhD or other advanced training programmes, including counselling and social work.

Whether you want develop niche expertise or refine analytical or research skills, this course will give you the ability to demonstrate self-direction, autonomy, and it will provide an up-to-date, in-depth knowledge of social policies affecting children and families

Entry requirements

• Applicants should hold an honours degree in related subject.

English language requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 (with no less than 5.5 in each component).
• TOEFL iBT: 85 overall, 18 in writing, 10 in reading, 10 in listening and 17 in speaking.
• PTE Academic: 61 (with no less than 51 in each component).