Taught course

Advanced Child Protection Studies

Institution
University of Birmingham · School of Social Policy
Qualifications
MScPCertPGDip

Entry requirements

Ordinarily an upper second-class degree (or higher) or a postgraduate diploma degree (or higher) from a UK university or equivalent. In exceptional circumstances a 2(ii) degree would be considered subject to the candidate having significant child protection experience.

As some of the learning tasks are integrated into actual practice, you will need to be employed in, or have negotiated access to, an organisation that undertakes or contributes to child protection work. If you are not already employed in a child protection organisation, you will need to supply a written agreement from the relevant organisation prior to registration.

You will need to supply the names of one reference from an organisational email address or as a PDF on headed paper and include a short personal statement with your application.

If you would like further information about entry requirements please contact Matthew Gibson.

Months of entry

September

Course content

This multidisciplinary Masters programme in Advanced Child Protection Studies is designed to develop specialist knowledge and skills within the field of child protection and safeguarding.

The 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 and 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. We have pathways for students wanting to focus on UK/English child protection and safeguarding work and students wanting to focus on international child protection work. There are four 30-credit modules which can be taken on a part-time or full-time basis. There is also a dissertation for those taking the MSc.

The programme is a online distance learning programme, which combines innovative learning and teaching techniques with interaction with the tutor and fellow students. Not only are students provided with high quality teaching, but they have 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.

Information for international students

You can satisfy our English language requirements in two ways:

  • by holding an English language qualification to the right level
  • by taking and successfully completing one of our English courses for international students


  • IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band
  • TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 in Listening, 22 in Speaking and 21 in Writing
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE) including online: PTE Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
  • Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015): Advanced – minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MSc
    full time
    30 months
    • Online learningis available for this qualification
    part time
    18 months
    • Online learningis available for this qualification
  • PCert
    part time
    12 months
    • Online learningis available for this qualification
  • PGDip
    part time
    24 months
    • Online learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details