UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO · CANADA
Master of Arts in Child Study & Education
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 2 years (5 terms)Program Length
- JK to Grade 6Qualified to Teach
- Over 450 hoursPracticum Experience
- Full-time enrolmentStudy Mode
- Housed at JICS with UofT's Laboratory SchoolUnique Location
- Globally renowned facultyExpert Instruction
The Master of Arts in Child Study and Education (MA-CSE) program is designed for individuals passionate about child-centered, research-informed teaching. This program prepares you to become an exemplary educator, focusing on the well-being and learning of every child from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6. You will learn to apply research and theory in child study to meet the needs of diverse learners in equitable and compassionate ways, always considering the 'why' behind educational practices. The program emphasizes fostering a 'community of care' where children feel safe to explore their curiosities and develop a love for learning. Learning is achieved through a blend of coursework, extensive practice teaching, in-depth study of children, and observation of effective teaching models. You will gain a deep understanding of child development theories, acquire a range of effective teaching strategies, and develop your professional identity as an educator. No prior background in psychology or research is required to apply.
Curriculum
The program combines coursework with extensive practical experience, spanning two years (five terms). It is structured to integrate learning with real-world application, including significant time in classrooms.
- Year 1
- Foundations in Inquiry and Data-Based Decision Making Practice-Based InquiryAPD1226H
- Child Study and the Science of LearningAPD2200Y
- Education Seminar I: Professional Practice, Critical Pedagogies and Social StudiesAPD2201Y
- Introduction to Curriculum I: Core AreasAPD2210Y
- Teaching PracticumAPD2220Y
- Adaptive Instruction: Students, Systems, and SupportsAPD2270Y
- Year 2 - Academic Term
- Language and Literacy: Understanding, Assessment, & InstructionAPD2211H
- Mathematics Learning and InstructionAPD2212H
- Arts Curriculum and Critical Pedagogies for Cross-curricular TeachingAPD2214H
- Professional Practice: Developing the Skills of Critical FriendshipAPD2223H
- Year 2 - Internship Term
- Education Seminar II: Current Issues in Teaching and LearningAPD2202H
- Teaching InternshipAPD2221Y
- Professional Practice: Developing the Skills of Critical FriendshipAPD2222H
Careers
Graduates of the MA-CSE program are qualified to teach from JK to Grade 6 in Ontario schools. The program aims to prepare thoughtful, compassionate, and equitable educators.
- Elementary School Teacher (JK-Grade 6)
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the Master of Arts in Child Study & Education program?
- The MA-CSE program is a full-time, two-year program that spans five terms. It includes coursework, extensive practice teaching, and an internship.
- What are the admission requirements for the MA-CSE program?
- You need a completed undergraduate degree to apply. While no specific background in psychology or research is required, students without undergraduate courses in child development must take a specific elective.
- What career opportunities are available after completing this program?
- Graduates of the MA-CSE program are qualified to teach from Junior Kindergarten (JK) to Grade 6 in Ontario schools. The program aims to prepare thoughtful, compassionate, and equitable educators.
- When is the application deadline for the MA-CSE program?
- For the September intake, the application deadline is November 10 at 5 pm ET. Applications typically open in late September.
- What is the tuition fee for international students?
- For current information about tuition fees, funding, and financial support, please visit the 'Tuition & Financial Support' page on the University of Toronto website.
- Is there any practical teaching experience included in the program?
- Yes, the program includes extensive practice teaching and a teaching internship, totaling over 450 hours of practicum experience. Learning is achieved through coursework, in-depth study of children, and observation of teaching models.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA completed undergraduate degree is required. No specific background in psychology or research is necessary.
Ontario Education RegulationsDemonstrated knowledge of the acts and regulations respecting education in Ontario.
Students without undergraduate courses in child development must take APD1201H (Child and Adolescent Development) as one of their electives. Students wishing to teach in Roman Catholic Separate Schools may need to take an additional religious education course.
Fees
Tuition (international)For current information about tuition fees, funding, and financial support, please visit the 'Tuition & Financial Support' page.
Tuition (home)For current information about tuition fees, funding, and financial support, please visit the 'Tuition & Financial Support' page.
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified.
How to apply
1. Explore Programs and RequirementsUnderstand the MA-CSE program details, curriculum, and specific admission requirements. Visit the program page and associated OISE admissions resources.
2. Check Application DeadlinesNote the application opening and closing dates. For the September 2026 intake, applications open in late September and the deadline is November 10, 2025, at 5 pm ET.
3. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, which typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of intent, and potentially English language proficiency test scores if applicable. Specific document requirements will be detailed on the admissions section of the OISE website.
4. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form through the University of Toronto's graduate admissions portal by the stated deadline.
5. Attend Information Sessions (Optional)Consider attending virtual or in-person information sessions and open houses hosted by OISE to learn more about the program and connect with the admissions team. The Fall Virtual Open House is typically held in early October.
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Master of Arts in Child Study & Education program?
+
The MA-CSE program is a full-time, two-year program that spans five terms. It includes coursework, extensive practice teaching, and an internship.
What are the admission requirements for the MA-CSE program?
+
You need a completed undergraduate degree to apply. While no specific background in psychology or research is required, students without undergraduate courses in child development must take a specific elective.
What career opportunities are available after completing this program?
+
Graduates of the MA-CSE program are qualified to teach from Junior Kindergarten (JK) to Grade 6 in Ontario schools. The program aims to prepare thoughtful, compassionate, and equitable educators.
When is the application deadline for the MA-CSE program?
+
For the September intake, the application deadline is November 10 at 5 pm ET. Applications typically open in late September.
What is the tuition fee for international students?
+
For current information about tuition fees, funding, and financial support, please visit the 'Tuition & Financial Support' page on the University of Toronto website.
Is there any practical teaching experience included in the program?
+
Yes, the program includes extensive practice teaching and a teaching internship, totaling over 450 hours of practicum experience. Learning is achieved through coursework, in-depth study of children, and observation of teaching models.