MSc in Advanced Child Protection Studies

This master's programme in Advanced Child Protection Studies is designed to develop students’ specialist knowledge within the field of child protection and safeguarding.

This programme aims to equip you with advanced knowledge that will enable you to work effectively in the field of child protection, whether this is in the area of practice, management, research, or service development. It aims to facilitate the development of higher-level critical analysis skills and to develop your capacity for knowledge-informed practice and more original thinking in relation to the complex issues that arise in the contested field of child protection.

The Advanced Child Protection Studies programme is designed to appeal to the more experienced professional already engaged in this area of activity – for example in social work, policing, law, education, nursing or health. However, those with an academic interest in the area (for example social policy, law or criminology graduates) are also encouraged to apply, subject to being able to satisfy the requirements of the various modules

The course is taught by experienced practitioners and experts in the field and will provide you with the opportunity to focus on specific areas of interest. There are four 30-credit modules over two years (two each year) and a dissertation in year three to achieve the MSc.

It is an online and distance learning programme, which combines innovative learning and teaching techniques with interaction with the tutor and fellow students. You will be provided with the same level of teaching as received by those on campus with the additional benefit of having the flexibility to study anywhere at any time. No specialist knowledge in technology is required, you will just need to have access to the internet and know how to use it. Learning activities are structured to provide simplicity and you will be supported throughout the programme.

To obtain the MSc you will complete four 30 credit modules and a 60 credit dissertation.

1. Part-time students will take 2 modules in years 1 and 2 and the dissertation module in year 3.
2. Full-time students will take 4 modules in year one and complete the dissertation component in year 2

• Law, Policy and Inter-agency Working (30 credits)
• Risk, Analysis and Decision Making (30 credits)
• Help, Support and Direct Work (30 credits)
• Organisations, Systems and Leadership (30 credits)
• Dissertation (60 credits)

All modules are compulsory

The course particularly offers successful candidates the potential to:

• enhance their careers through developing an expert or specialist child protection role in the workplace
• develop a research or development role within child protection or safeguarding organisations
• further develop their academic studies in the field of child protection, safeguarding and child welfare

Please note that the programme does not lead to a professional qualification.