masters in education uk

King's College London

Education ma.

The Education MA is a flexible course that combines interdisciplinary perspectives with the development of analytical and core research skills to enable students to pursue their own subject specific interests in education. It emphasises the development of a critical understanding of education policies and practices to promote capacities for independent thought and action in the classroom. - Promotes analytical and research skills to enhance practical development. - Taught by staff with international reputations in the field. - Promotes transferable abilities such as practical and policy-oriented insights and high- quality research, communication and presentation skills. - Provides opportunities to build a network of teachers, academics and educational policy figures that span local, national and international settings. - Located in the heart of London. Education, Communication and Society is internationally recognised as a centre of research and teaching excellence in the field of education. Academics in the school are regarded as world- leading in the fields of sociology of education and critical pedagogy, many of whom continue to make a distinctive contribution to policy sociology and philosophy of education, as well as to educational practices, particularly to theories surrounding assessment. This course will enable students to critically reflect on educational practices (including, where relevant, their own educational roles), carry out independent research, and acquire the skills and contacts that will enable them to progress in autumn term and will consist of a combination of highly interactive lectures and blended learning to support subject-specific learning and development. The extensive range of optional modules available makes the course highly flexible, enabling students to specialise in a particular area of educational research and to engage in an extended examination of their own practice. The course has been designed to support students to develop critical perspectives and analytical research skills that promote a capacity for independent thought and practical innovation in the classroom, and an ability to analyse and evaluate contemporary developments in education policy.

Key benefits

• Flexible and interdisciplinary while supporting subject-specific learning.
• Draws on contemporary research to develop a critical understanding of educational policies and practices.

“ I am fortunate to have found a home at King’s College London. In short, I am placed at the epicentre of intellectual discourse at the King’s College London, studying with international students and thriving in a conducive environment that furthers my professional and voluntary experience. ”

• Course essentials
• Entry requirements
• Teaching & structure

Employability

This course will enable students to critically reflect on their own educational roles, carry out independent research at their own schools, and acquire the skills and contacts that will enable them to progress in their careers. The course will enable participants to develop an in-depth understanding of educational policies and practices, focusing predominantly on the UK but also drawing on international contexts and perspectives.

Curious to find out more? Access on-demand content including taster lectures and talks, and meet our current staff and students on our subject hub page .

• Fees & Funding

Application closing date guidance

We encourage you to apply as early as possible so that there is sufficient time for your application to be assessed. We may need to request further information from you during the application process.

King's College London is committed to the recruitment of students with the greatest academic ability and to maintain a diverse student population. In order to ensure a balanced international student population for our most competitive programmes, we have implemented the following deadlines:

For applicants who are currently residing in mainland China, the first application deadline is 10 January 2025 (23:59 UK time).

• We highly encourage you to apply by this deadline due to high demand, but applications will continue to be reviewed thereafter until the final application deadline on 9 March 2025 (23:59 UK time).
• If you reside in mainland China and apply for this programme after the above final deadline, your application may be automatically withdrawn and you will not be eligible for an application fee refund.

For all other applicants, our first application deadline is on 9 March 2025 (23:59 UK time). The final application deadlines for this programme are:

• Overseas (international) fee status: 25 July 2025 (23:59 UK time)
• Home fee status: 25 August 2025 (23:59 UK time)

After the first application deadline in March:

• if the programme is not yet full, we will continue to accept applications until all available places are filled up to the final application deadlines above
• if the programme becomes full before the final application deadlines stated above, we will close the programme to further applications

Please note, you will not be eligible for an application fee refund if you apply after the first application deadline, and we are unable to process further offers because places are filled and we close the course before the final application deadline.

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Related departments

• Faculty of Social Science & Public Policy
• School of Education, Communication & Society

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Study Postgraduate

Education (ma) (2025 entry).

Course code

P -X35Q; P -X35R (2 years); P -X35S (3 years)

29 September 2025

1 year full-time; 2 years or 2-3 years part-time

Qualification

Education Studies

University of Warwick

Download our prospectus Link opens in a new window

Find out more about our Education taught Master's degree.

This flexible MA course is perfect if you are seeking to understand education within its broader contexts. You will be asked to engage with and critically analyse the role of education, considering the aims and values which inform education systems and how these influence and shape both societies and individuals. You will learn to pair foundation theories with in-depth study of arguments disputes and issues present within the educational sphere today.

Course overview

We encourage you to link theoretical and practical understanding of issues in education, while developing knowledge, skills and understanding of the questions involved in conceptualising and designing educational research.

You will engage with and critically analyse the role of education, considering the aims and values which inform education systems and how these influence and shape both societies and individuals. You will receive a grounding in research methods and a core module which explores current debates and issues in education, both domestically and internationally. This course will help you to better understand the theories, practicalities and significance of educational issues, whilst also enabling you to develop an appreciation for the role that research plays in illuminating these.

By the end of the course, you will be excellently positioned to take the knowledge you have learned and the academically critical skills you will have developed into many aspects of your working life.

Skills from this degree

• Develop and evidence a systematic understanding and critical awareness of current issues within an educational context
• Comprehensive understanding of research strategies and techniques appropriate for use in educational research
• Independent learning and the ability to work in a way which ensures continuing professional development
• Deepen insights into the dynamic interaction that exists between education research, theory, policy and practice
• Engage critically with current research related to the field of education

General entry requirements

Minimum requirements.

2:2 undergraduate degree (or equivalent).

English language requirements

You can find out more about our English language requirements Link opens in a new window . This course requires the following:

• IELTS score to 7 overall, no more than two components at 6.0/6.5 & rest 7.0+

International qualifications

We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.

For more information, please visit the international entry requirements page Link opens in a new window .

Additional requirements

There are no additional entry requirements for this course.

Core modules

Education and Society (alternative online module available for part-time students if required)

This module aims to offer a critical framework for understanding education in its wider social and historical contexts. The module focuses principally on the UK but also considers global developments and offers students opportunities to consider their own national contexts. You will explore the social purposes of education, considering issues such as: education and social justice; education, the state and social provision; education and the economy; educational inequalities and widening participation. The module will look at how shifts in these areas have informed developments in schools, post-compulsory and higher education.

Research Methods in Education (alternative online module available for part-time students if required)

This module encourages students in understanding, designing and implementing research in the field of education.

It will introduce you to a range of established research strategies and techniques, including data collection and analysis. These skills will enable you to design and carry out a dissertation research project, as well as to disseminate its findings. As part of this module, you will present your research design and have the opportunity to receive feedback ahead of completing your dissertation.

Dissertation

The dissertation is an opportunity to explore, in depth, an area of academic and/or professional interest related to your degree. Building on the knowledge and skills developed during the Research Methods module, and your other modules, you will conduct an independent research project, developing a deeper understanding of your chosen topic. From your research project, you will produce a dissertation, with guidance from a supervisor who will be allocated to you. Through the dissertation, you will demonstrate the ability to analyse and synthesise relevant literature, produce coherent arguments supported by relevant evidence and logical discussion, and acknowledge sources of ideas and information.

Optional modules

This programme has a number of optional modules to choose from to allow you to achieve the required credits to successfully complete the programme. Our optional module lists are subject to change each year to keep the student learning experience current and up-to-date.

Find the most up-to-date optional module list on the Education Studies website. Link opens in a new window

For full-time students, all of our modules are delivered in-person at our well-equipped university campus. Please note that if you wish to study on a part time basis you should be aware that most modules are taught during the normal working day and there is no out of hours provision. If this is a consideration for you please contact us prior to applying so that we can advise you further. Part-time students are able to complete some of their modules as asynchronous distance-learning modules.  

Most modules include weekly teaching sessions, giving you the opportunity to join with your colleagues to discuss and debate the topics being explored. These sessions are delivered in a range of formats that suit the module (these may include lectures, seminars, group work and practical workshops, for example). In addition, you will be given various pre- and post- session tasks and readings to support your learning.  

Typical contact hours

You will attend one or two 3-hour lectures and/or seminars each week during the Autumn and Spring Terms plus research methods training lectures and seminars throughout all three terms.  

Assessment types vary depending on modules selected but include mixture of assignments and oral presentations. You will also complete a dissertation based on an individual research project, with support from a research supervisor.

Reading lists

If you would like to view reading lists for current or previous cohorts of students, most departments have reading lists available through Warwick Library on the Talis Aspire platform .   

You can search for reading lists by module title, code or convenor. Please see the modules tab of this page or the module catalogue .    

Please note that some reading lists may have restricted access or be unavailable at certain times of year due to not yet being published. If you cannot access the reading list for a particular module, please check again later or contact the module’s host department.   

Additional course costs

You may wish to undertake some research with children or young people that may require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check or a Certificate of Good Conduct for students from outside of the UK. A Certificate of Good Conduct can vary in price.

Please contact your academic department for information about department specific costs, which should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below, such as:

• Core text books
• Printer credits
• Dissertation binding
• Robe hire for your degree ceremony

Find out more about our additional course costs.

Your timetable

Your personalised timetable will be complete when you are registered for all modules, compulsory and optional, and you have been allocated to your lectures, seminars and other small group classes. Your compulsory modules will be registered for you and you will be able to choose your optional modules when you join us.

Your career

Graduates of the course have gone on to be involved in such diverse careers as social work, NGO and charity work as well as teaching and educational leadership.  

Our department has a dedicated professionally qualified Careers Consultant offering impartial advice and guidance together with workshops and events throughout the year. Previous examples of workshops and events include:  

• Careers in Education  
• Careers with Children and Young People  
• Warwick careers fairs throughout the year  

Education Studies at Warwick

Education has the power to change lives

Education changes lives through teaching, coaching, training, and through work in local and global communities. What do you understand about that power? Bring your fascination for the way we communicate and learn to Warwick.

Find out more about us on our website Link opens in a new window

Our Postgraduate Taught courses

• Childhood in Society (MA)
• Drama and Theatre Education (MA)
• Drama Education and English Language Teaching (MA)
• Education (MA)
• Educational Innovation (MA)
• Educational Leadership and Management (MA)
• Global Education and International Development (MA)
• Islamic Education (PGA)
• Islamic Education: Theory and Practice (MA)
• Leading Educational Change and Improvement (PGA)
• Psychology and Education (MA)
• Research Methods in Education (PGA)

Our Postgraduate Research courses

• Education (MPhil/PhD)

Tuition fees

Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.

Find your taught course fees  

Fee Status Guidance

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Students will be classified as Home or Overseas fee status. Your fee status determines tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available. If you receive an offer, your fee status will be clearly stated alongside the tuition fee information.

Do you need your fee classification to be reviewed?

If you believe that your fee status has been classified incorrectly, you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire. Please follow the instructions in your offer information and provide the documents needed to reassess your status.

Find out more about how universities assess fee status

As well as tuition fees and living expenses, some courses may require you to cover the cost of field trips or costs associated with travel abroad.

For departmental specific costs, please see the Modules tab on the course web page for the list of core and optional core modules with hyperlinks to our  Module Catalogue  (please visit the Department’s website if the Module Catalogue hyperlinks are not provided).

Associated costs can be found on the Study tab for each module listed in the Module Catalogue (please note most of the module content applies to 2022/23 year of study). Information about module department specific costs should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below:

Scholarships and bursaries

Scholarships and financial support.

Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.

Living costs

Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.

Find out how to apply to us, ask your questions, and find out more.

How to apply.

Applications are now open for courses that start in September and October 2025.

Applications will close on 2 August 2025 for students who require a visa to study in the UK, to allow time to receive a CAS and complete the visa application process.

How to apply for a postgraduate taught course  

After you’ve applied

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See Warwick’s postgraduate admissions policy.

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Explore ways to connect with us

We understand how important it is to visit and explore your future university before you apply. That's why we have put together a range of online and in-person options to help you discover more about your course, visit campus, and get a sense of postgraduate life at Warwick. Our events offer includes:

• Warwick hosted events
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Why Warwick

Discover why Warwick is one of the best universities in the UK and renowned globally.

8th in the UK

in the Guardian University Guide 2025

6th Most Targeted University

by the UK's top 100 graduate employers (The Graduate Market in 2024, High Fliers Research Ltd)

69th in the World

out of 1,500 institutions across 104 locations (QS World University Rankings 2025)

5th best student city in the UK

Coventry is ranked as the 5th Best Student City in the UK, and 40th in the world (Best Student Cities, QS World University Guide 2023)

Gold standard teaching

Gold, the highest possible rating across all three categories (student experience, student outcomes, and overall) (Teaching Excellence Framework 2023)

92% of our research

was assessed as 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent' (Research Excellence Framework 2021)

Page Updates

We may have revised the information on this page since publication. See the edits we have made and content history .

About the information on this page

This information is applicable for 2025 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply. Please read our terms and conditions to find out more.

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Education (MSc)

Education (MSc) starting September 2025 for 1 year

About this course

Our MSc Education course is a 12-month degree for ambitious students who want to pursue or advance their career in education. You’ll critically examine the relationship between educational research and practice so you can find work in a variety of educational institutions at different levels.

Education at the University of Southampton is ranked 4th in the UK (The Complete University Guide, 2022)

If you want to pursue a senior role in education, understand and apply educational research or enhance your current teaching practice but don’t know where to start, then our master's degree in education is the course for you. 

On this MSc education course you’ll take a research-first approach, using evidence and data to inform discussion points within your written work and seminar contributions. You’ll learn to critically reflect on your own teaching and learning practices based on analysis of different teaching methods. 

We’ll help you to navigate the educational system. You’ll analyse the challenges facing education and how regional, national and international policies can impact teaching and learning.  

During the course, you’ll explore: 

• how the influence of evidence from research can positively impact on teaching and learning 
• topics which impact on education, including personal, cultural or social values 
• international perspectives on different educational practices and policies from around the world 
• methods and techniques required to collect and analyse data for educational research 
• current debates in educational practice and research methodologies 

The combination of taught lectures, interactive seminars and independent research study will help you to learn key professional skills. 

We also offer 3 pathways on our MSc Education degree. 

Your other MSc Education pathway options are:

• MSc Education Management and Leadership - you'll develop knowledge and understanding of how to lead and manage education institutions, and how to become an academic leader.
• MSc Education Practice and Innovation   - study different teaching and learning methods and learn how to conduct and analyse educational research in the fields of innovation and inclusive practices.

We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes .

Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).

Course lead

Dr Cristina Azaola , Associate Professor in Education, is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and interested in educational inequalities, social inclusion and exclusion through schooling.  

She convened the conference Lessons of resilience and social inclusion from the Covid-19 pandemic, funded by The British Academy and the Wellcome Trust. She is the principal investigator of the following projects:

• Teachers’ jury to improve school belonging in technical high schools, funded by the Higher Education Innovation Funding
• Enhancing reflective learning and school collaboration in rural Mexico, funded by The British Council
• Investigating staff and student belonging in a Further Education College with Dr Ran Peleg, funded by Research England Participatory Research Fund

She has published over eighteen papers in different high-quality peer-reviewed international journals.

Learn more about this subject area

Course location

This course is based at Highfield .

Awarding body

This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.

Download the Course Description Document

The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.

• Download ODT Download 2024-25 Course Description Document

Entry requirements

You’ll need a 2:1 degree and a minimum of 2 months work experience which should involve interactions with groups of learners rather than individual tutoring. 

Find the  equivalent international qualifications  for your country.

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:

IELTS score requirements

We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.

If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

Pre-masters

If you don’t meet the academic requirements, you can complete a pre-master's programme through our partnership with ONCAMPUS. Learn more about the programmes available .

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email:  [email protected] Tel:  +44(0)23 8059 5000

Course structure

During this one year MSc education course, you'll study 6 modules across 2 semesters before completing a dissertation.  

These modules will give you a broad knowledge in teaching and learning methods as well as applied research skills. 

Three modules will be compulsory and you can choose 3 optional modules across the pathway course options if you would like to learn about leadership and management or innovation and education practices. 

Want more detail?  See all the modules in the course.

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes .

For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026

Year 1 modules.

You must study the following modules :

Education Research: Practice and Methods

This module will introduce you to the content and structure of the dissertation and prepare you for designing and undertaking a small-scale research project in education. The sessions will focus on helping you formulate appropriate research problems and q...

Learning and Teaching

The content of this module will typically draw on a range of research and will focus on examining various aspects of learning and teaching including: - Personal perceptions about learning and teaching. - Past and current theories/models about learni...

MSc Dissertation

The dissertation builds on work undertaken across other modules and provides you with an opportunity to undertake a piece of independent research in a chosen topic. Normally, your dissertation will be individually supervised.

Understanding Education Research

Educational research is a wide-ranging field that draws upon many different disciplines and methodologies. This introductory module aims to help you navigate this complex field by providing an overview of the common paradigms and methodologies that you ar...

You must also choose from the following modules :

Education and Society

The module provides an understanding of the relationship between education and society. This includes the ways in which education systems reflect broader economic, political, social and cultural structures and values; how these inform education policy; th...

Globalisation and Education Policy

In recent decades globalisation has impacted national education policies in industrialised, emerging and developing economies. This module will look at the different ways in which some education systems in different regions have changed their policies and...

Inclusive Practices in Education

Educational systems and contexts today have to respond to an increasingly diverse population of learners. This module allows participants to explore ways of reaching out to all learners, in varied educational contexts, with the aim being to enable all lea...

Investigating Innovations in Learning and Teaching

When you study this module you will examine and investigate notions of innovation and notions of innovation within formal and informal learning and teaching settings. Your pre-conceptions of the role technological innovations in such settings will be chal...

Leadership in Education

The module will provide an introduction to theories of leadership, leadership in the field of education, teacher instructional leadership for capacity building and leadership for learning to sustain school improvement.

Management in Education Organisations

As you progress to more senior roles in your school or educational institution there is a need to develop your skills and knowledge in the area of management. In this module you will focus on understanding the principles of management, applying these to e...

STEM Education: Addressing Global Challenges

Modern concerns like global warming and alternative fuels highlight the need for a STEM educated population. This module aims to provide a comprehensive overview of STEM education by examining current trends and best practices in the field. The module is ...

Learning and assessment

During the taught element of the course, you’ll learn through a combination of lectures, seminars and practical sessions.  

Activities will depend on the modules that you take.  

There are a variety of different learning activities to help you learn, including:  

• Group work 
• Research and case studies 
• Online learning 

Through group work you'll collaborate with other students to produce a group report or presentation. You'll also work on research and case-studies showing the reality of research design, decision making and problem solving activities in today’s organisational environment.

We also provide a learning environment called ‘Blackboard’ which gives you access to many additional resources and supporting learning materials. The School also has a dedicated website with links for online learning support.

Our students are from a wide range of cultural and geographical backgrounds, meaning you'll get the chance to set up learning networks that can extend beyond the time of your study at Southampton. You'll communicate in a variety of contexts, and discuss problems and a tasks together.

You’ll be assessed by a combination of the following methods:  

• written assignments
• academic posters
• research project reports
• dissertation

Explore course modules for full details of learning and assessment.

Dissertation

The dissertation builds on work undertaken across other modules and gives you an opportunity to take on a piece of independent research in a chosen topic. Normally, your dissertation will be individually supervised. The dissertation will be between 15,000 and 17,000 words.

Academic Support

We can support your learning needs throughout your studies through an induction programme and individual support in study skills. You will also get a personal tutor to support your academic development.

Graduates from this course are now working in the following roles:

• international education officer
• tutors in language learning institutes or other private institutions
• teachers in early years, primary and secondary schools
• lecturers or educational administrators in Higher Education Institutions

Careers services at Southampton

We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV/resume and interview skills workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a thriving entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:

• our dedicated start-up incubator,  Futureworlds
• a wide variety of  enterprise events  run throughout the year
• our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator,  SETsquared

Fees, costs and funding

Tuition fees.

Fees for a year's study:

• UK students pay £9,250.
• EU and international students pay £25,400.

Check fees for other versions of this course .

If you're an international student on a full-time course, we'll ask you to pay £2,000 of your tuition fees in advance, as a deposit.

Your offer letter will tell you when this should be paid and provide full terms and conditions.

Find out about exemptions, refunds and how to pay your deposit on our tuition fees for overseas students page.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams. The fee you pay will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.

Find out how to  pay your tuition fees .

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

• accommodation costs
• living costs
• budgeting advice
• fees, charges and expenses regulations

10% alumni discount

If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton, you could be eligible for a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.

Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)

This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible .

Southampton Education Postgraduate International Scholarship

A scholarship of £3,000 is available to international students studying for a postgraduate master’s in Education.

Find out more about the Southampton Education International Scholarship , including eligibility and conditions.

Other postgraduate funding options

A variety of additional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.

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Find out about funding you could get as an international student .

• Use the blue 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our postgraduate admissions system.
• Create an account which gives you access to your own application portal. . 
• Search for the course you want to apply for.
• Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
• Pay the £50 application assessment fee, (there are some exemptions, check terms and conditions ).
• Submit your application.

For further details of our admission process, read our step by step guide to postgraduate taught applications .

Application deadlines

Uk students.

The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 9 September 2025, midday UK time.

We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.

The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 26 August 2025, midday UK time.

Application assessment fee

We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for a postgraduate taught course.

This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees and is payable per application. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.

If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, or if you’re applying for certain scholarships, you will not need to pay the fee. PGCE applications through GOV.UK and Master of Research (MRes) degree applications are also exempt. Find out if you’re exempt on our terms and conditions page .

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

References are not required for this programme.

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We receive a high volume of applications for this course. This means you may not receive a response to your application for up to 12 weeks.

If we offer you a place, you will need to accept the offer within 30 working days. If you do not meet this deadline, we will offer your place to another applicant.

Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our  Equality and Diversity Statement .

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Education MA

Ranking 3rd in the REF Ranking details

Delivery format In person

Start date September 2025

Duration MA - 12 months full-time

Award Master of Arts

Entry requirements A 2:1 or above (or international equivalent) Bachelor's degree is required. Full requirements

Fees £10,900 (full-time) Fee details

• Online open week: 2 - 6 December

Page contents

Course overview.

Start shaping the future of education by developing your expertise with us. Guided by academics and grounded in research, theory and practice, you’ll develop the skills needed to create a fairer, more inclusive education system and be ready to make a lasting impact.

Advance your career in education with this personalised MA Education program. Tailor your studies to your passions and career goals, drawing from our leading research in social justice, inclusion, and leadership to create meaningful change in education.

Course structure

This course will run over 12 months in a full-time mode.

Course highlights

Join our top-ranked School of Education and be part of a vibrant learning community. Our MA Education programme activates your potential with a diverse curriculum covering leadership, SEN, and social justice. Graduate prepared for a rewarding career in education or research.

• Integrated Diverse Learning: Combines cutting-edge educational theory with specialisms in contemporary disciplines.
• Learn from the Best: Be taught by leading researchers in our Top 5 ranked School of Education.
• Innovative Teaching: Gain a diverse set of skills through lectures, seminars, and online tools with mixed learning assessment methods.

Our School of Education is ranked 3rd in the UK for its 4* research in the REF

Course delivery

Our programme prepares you for a career in Education through diverse learning methods including: seminars, lectures, workshops and virtual learning.

• Lecture - Academics give organised talks to large groups of students who take notes, less interactive.
• Seminar - Small group sessions designed to complement lectures and are generally more informal in nature. They give you the chance to discuss issues with fellow students and allow for more interaction than a traditional lecture.
• Workshop - Workshops are for smaller groups, but instead of discussion, students might learn about a tool or a technique that they will be required to know about for their course. They are usually more hands-on learning that allows discussion regarding the given topic.

Module information

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants .

2025/26 Session

The following must be taken:

Choose a further four 20 credit modules from the list provided.

Entry requirements

To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English Presessional Programmes

Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.

A 2:1 or above (or international equivalent) Bachelor's degree is required.

Applicants without a 2:1 are welcome to apply, but should have a degree and a minimum of three years relevant professional experience post degree, in an education-focused setting.

Students who have not studied in English must pass a recognised English test. For more information on what proof you will need, visit our International Postgraduate requirements page

Fees and scholarships

Postgraduate masters loan.

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Application process

To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.

Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.

Application deadline for international students requiring a visa. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.

Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.

MA Education (fully online)

This is one of the most popular Masters courses of its type in the UK and the largest Masters course in the university.

Course overview

• Sep, 1 Year
• Postgraduate
• Master of Arts
• School of Education

Upcoming events

Why not meet us at our next online or in-person event?

About the Course

Our MA in Education is a one-year, part-time course for teachers and school leaders to develop expertise in the field of education through critical evaluation of research and scholarship.

We take students from all round the world. This course provides students with the opportunity to follow their own interests while being given clear guidance about the requirements of a serious level 7 academic qualification.

You will complete a number of modules enabling you to develop your understanding both of the research process as well as your topic of interest. The culmination of the MA is a 12,000 to 15,000-word dissertation. You will also critically engage with scholarship, which informs your dissertation, and you will learn about different research methods. You will be expected to read widely around your subject area. Following this course helps to develop your critical thinking and your ability to present a written argument.

What is the point of doing an MA when I have a PGCE or am an experienced teacher?

• Professionals do not stop learning at any stage in their working lives. Doctors and lawyers, for example, have to have regular refresher courses. In the same way, teachers need a framework like an MA within which to learn about recent research in education and be prompted to consider whether they could be even better at what they do.
• Not only will you learn about recent research in education, but you will also learn how to do research yourself.
• Having taken the trouble to gain this qualification will show your employer and future employers that you are a serious, professional employee.
• You will find the course intellectually stimulating.

Course requirements

Master’s degrees are awarded to students who have demonstrated:

• A systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study or area of professional practice.
• A comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship.
• originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline.
• Conceptual understanding that enables the student: – to evaluate critically current research and advanced scholarship in the discipline. – to evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, to propose new hypotheses.

Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to:

• Deal with complex issues – both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level.
• Continue to advance their knowledge and understanding, and to develop new skills to a high level.

QAA, The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies, February 2024

Course content

The course includes:

• Engaging with issues in Education.
• Developing a critical understanding of relevant literature.
• Understanding what is expected of Level 7 Academic Writing.
• Learning how to navigate the topic of research methodology.
• Planning your dissertation.
• Understanding the ethical implications of being a researcher.

Course delivery

Every Master’s student is allocated a supervisor. You will regularly communicate for example, via Teams, Zoom, Email or another online meeting platform with your supervisor at times that are suitable for you both, to support each module. You will also have access to regular online study sessions throughout the course.

There are induction sessions to introduce you to how the course will run – on application you will receive a choice of dates where you will indicate when you will attend.

When the course start you will have access to MOODLE, the University’s online learning platform and from there you will access the course handbook and all resources needed for successful completion of the course. In the handbook there is a week by week guide which will indicate what work is expected that week. This will either be:

• a recorded film to watch
• a podcast with accompanying literature
• independent study towards a module
• a Twilight session which will be live, but recorded and shared on Moodle after the date. These Twilights are optional in terms of attendance as we know that many people struggle to be available at certain times. However, all these sessions are recorded and should then be watched after the live event. This means that as you progress through the course you end up having access to library of videos that you can re-visit, to support you to a successful outcome.

It is important to understand that you, as a Master’s student, will be expected to work independently and you are expected to fully engage with the guidance provided to complete the required modules.

What will I gain?

• You will acquire a new set of skills. You are required to engage with a wide range of arguments and be prepared to be critical of them, to synthesise arguments and perhaps most importantly to develop your own critical voice.
• A fresh challenge can stop you becoming stale. Once you have been teaching for a while you can easily build up a lot of experience and expertise with the delivery of your work. Whilst it is great to be able to build upon that confidence it can also mean that you can become comfortable. This can mean, although not always, that you can become stale and possibly even out of date with your thinking. Ideas are always changing in Education; new research is always coming into effect and sometimes it is easy to fall behind and not be aware of new ideas. By undertaking a Master’s it will keep you fresh and up to date.
• Research gives you an authoritative voice. As you develop your critical voice it becomes even more possible for you to speak confidently on a range of issues. This can give you a real boost, opening up new career opportunities to you.
• You will connect with people outside of your comfort zone. Engaging with a Master’s programme enables you to connect to a whole new group of people. These can be people we can then network with not only across the country, but across the globe.
• You can study something you are genuinely interested in. Lots of people have different areas of interest, or problems they want to solve, or challenges they want to face, and these are often a product of the work and experience that you bring to the course. It is a great idea to work to discover more about these particular areas of interest and even to become an expert on that topic. This too might seem indulgent, but the great thing about carrying out research in Education is that there is a good chance that your discoveries can have a positive impact in the workplace.
• It is an investment in yourself. Not necessarily in the monetary sense, it is more about thinking about yourself, the kind of person you are and what you want out of life. Are there things that you want to investigate further? It is about recognising the complexity of our identities in that we are more than our jobs and that we have a lot to offer the world. Spending the time (and money) on taking part in a Master’s programme is worth it if you want to develop yourself and the way that you think.

Should I do the MA in Education or the MA in Education (Evidence-based Practice)?

The MA in Education (Evidence-based Practice) is a full 180 Masters course, therefore takes more time to complete and has more of a focus on evidence-based practice. As it is 180 credits which means you can get a student loan in England. If you have credits you wish to bring with you, then you may wish to opt for the MA in Education or MA in Residential Education – the topic of focus is up to you (with agreement from us).

Entry Requirements

• UK degree (2.2 or above). For equivalent qualifications, contact [email protected] to confirm that your qualification meets the University entry requirements.
• be working in a school/educational environment

In addition, the candidate must have either:

• Route 1* – PGCE with 60 Master’s credits at level 7 from The University of Buckingham or another university (if completed within ten years of the proposed start date of the course) OR
• Route 2* – PGCE at level 6 – an additional module (a bridging unit) of study will be provided.

The fees for this course are:

The University reserves the right to increase course fees annually in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI). If the University intends to increase your course fees it will notify you via email of this as soon as reasonably practicable.

Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.

Applicants must also pay a non-refundable £300 registration fee.

Fees are invoiced for in September, at the beginning of the course, and can be paid in termly instalments or in one lump sum. Termly instalments can be arranged directly with the Finance department upon receipt of the invoice.

All staff at COBIS member schools get a 5% discount on course fees. To ensure discount is applied please select COBIS from the partnership box on your application form.

If you wish to apply for a fees loan then you should take the MA in Education (evidence-based practice).

If you would like a University of Buckingham lecturer to visit your school for additional training and support and you can assemble ten or more trainees in one place, this is possible for an additional fee. Ask us for details.

Applicants from China should apply through the Buckingham International School of Education, not this page;  click here:   https://bise.openapply.cn/

How To Apply

Please use the ‘Apply’ button or contact The Faculty of Education by email: [email protected] or by calling +44 (0)1280 820 222.

When applying, you will need to supply:

• copy of PGCE certificate and transcript to show credit level (if you have one)
• copy of passport photo page (and visa/work permit where necessary)
• head and shoulder style photo for your University identity card

Best universities for education degrees in the UK 2024

These are the best universities in the uk for education degrees, according to data from the  times higher education  world university rankings 2024.

Top 10 universities in the UK for education degrees 2024

Scroll down for the full list of best universities in the UK for education degrees

Education can be studied at many different levels in the UK. Some students choose to complete an undergraduate degree in a subject of their choice and then do a one-year PGCE to become a qualified teacher. 

Step into your future: attend our events

Some universities offer undergraduate education degrees with an option to become a qualified teacher by the end.

There are also various master’s courses in education, allowing students to specialise in certain topics to develop their knowledge and research skills in the education field.

These are the best universities for education in the UK. 

Best universities for education degrees in the world Best universities in Australia for education degrees Best universities in the US for education degrees Best universities in Canada for education degrees

5.  King’s College London

King’s College London  offers education courses at the postgraduate level through PGCE teacher training, master’s and doctoral courses.

The education master’s programme is a one-year programme that allows flexible and subject-specific learning. Students will gain an understanding of educational policies, and develop research skills to enhance classroom practice.

PGCE teacher training leads to Qualified Teacher Status, and with access to about 200 schools across London and the wider area, students can learn and develop their skills through 120 days of school placements.

There is also the option to study education research at either a master’s (MPhil) or PhD level. This is a two- to four-year full-time course allowing students to critically analyse, research and respond to changes in policy in education.

4.  University of Edinburgh

The  University of Edinburgh  offers a numbers of undergraduate and postgraduate education degrees. There is a three-year bachelor’s degree in childhood practice, examining issues of childhood, well-being, development and rights. It is accredited by the Scottish Social Services Council.

There are also four-year master’s programmes specialising in learning in communities, and primary education with Gaelic for both fluent speakers and learners.

Then there is a one-year PGDE, the Scottish equivalent of a PGCE, at primary or secondary level. The university has a partnership with Place2Be mental health charity, providing teachers with extra resources to help them support the well-being of their students and their families.

The university also consistently ranks as one of the best universities in Scotland . 

UCL offers a range of education degrees, including an undergraduate education studies bachelor’s, several master’s and doctoral programmes, as well as PGCEs in early years, primary and secondary.

The education bachelor’s degree is three years in duration. During their third year, students can conduct research in areas they are interested in. To achieve Qualified Teacher Status, students can apply for a one-year teacher training programme after their studies.

Both research and taught degrees are offered to postgraduate students, including education and technology (MA), early years education (MA), and education and child psychology (DEdPsy). PGCE teacher training is also offered, where students can select one subject for specialist study.

What can you do with an education degree?

2.  University of Cambridge

Education is offered at both undergraduate and postgraduate level at the  University of Cambridge .

The undergraduate education degree is three years in duration and accepts only 42 students per year. They can choose one of three tracks: education, psychology and learning; education, policy and international development; or education, English, drama and the arts.

In their first year, students study major themes in education, including inequality and digitalisation. Second year includes two compulsory papers: designing educational research, and the emergence of educational thinking and systems, and the other papers are track-specific. The third year includes a compulsory dissertation and two papers on issues in education, and two track-specific papers.

Postgraduates wishing to study education can choose a PGCE, master’s or doctoral degree. The PGCE course is taken as a specialism in primary or secondary (high school) education. Both options include significant placement time, with secondary PGCE students spending at least 120 days of the course in schools.

The master’s (MPhil) programme is 10 months long and applicants can choose from seven different courses. Teaching is mostly interactive, not lecture-based.

The PhD programme in education is three to four years in length, with 46 students accepted per year.

1.  University of Oxford

The  University of Oxford  offers several postgraduate education programmes, including a doctor of philosophy (DPhil) in education, as well as several master of science (MSc) education degrees. Topics could include child development and education, comparative and international education, digital and social change, higher education, and research design and methodology.

Many of these programmes offer full-time and part-time options to give students a choice to complete studies alongside work if required.

The year-long MSc courses focuses on key issues in education today. They are assessed mostly through written assignments, and in some cases examinations or a dissertation project.

The DPhil in education is three to four years in duration and provides graduates with research skills and knowledge around three major themes: language, cognition and development; policy, economy and society; and pedagogy, learning and knowledge.

At the moment, the  University of Oxford  does not offer any undergraduate education courses. 

Best universities in the UK for education degrees 2024

Click each institution to view its full  World University Rankings 2024  results. 

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Register free and enjoy extra benefits

MSc Education Studies

• Start date:  January & September (modules differ)
• Study mode and duration:  12 months full-time

Study:  work-based learning modules available

Study with us

• develop a solid foundation for understanding transformative processes in all cultural contexts
• enhance practice and career opportunities in the broader field of formal and informal education
• gain a grounding in research methods and reasoning
• suitable for those looking to pursue full-time study in this area
• open to applications from international students
• take part in optional work-based learning modules

Please note that completion of this programme does not provide you with a teaching qualification

Why this course?

The Masters course in Education Studies introduces the most important questions and problems by which the discipline of education studies is characterised, along with the methodologies and methods used to answer those questions. In addition to the core modules designed to give you a solid foundation for understanding educational processes, you'll have the flexibility to choose a pair of modules from a range of specialist classes to meet your personal and professional needs. This includes a pair of work-based learning modules where you can explore how learning works, components of effective teaching and encourage professional learning through practitioner inquiry.

Education Studies is a discipline in its own right. While it draws on insights from different disciplines, such as psychology, sociology, philosophy, political studies and international relations, economics and business studies, it entertains a very specific perspective on the world.

In education studies, we're mainly interested in the ways, personal growth and (trans)formation can be individually and socially initiated, guided, and supported. Those educational processes are, of course, not restricted to contexts of formal education, eg schooling, but can be perceived everywhere in modern cultures.

Our two new work-based learning modules allow students to further develop their professional practice by applying learnings directly to their own workplace setting.

International students

We've a thriving international community with students coming here to study from over 140 countries across the world. Find out all you need to know about studying in Glasgow at Strathclyde and hear from students about their experiences.

Entry requirements

Interested in postgraduate study.

At the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, our friendly and knowledgeable team will be available to provide you with all the information you need to kick-start your postgraduate journey at the University of Strathclyde. Register for upcoming events below:

• Monthly drop-in sessions

Fees & funding

All fees quoted are per academic year unless stated otherwise.

Fees may be subject to updates to maintain accuracy. Tuition fees will be notified in your offer letter.

All fees are in £ sterling, unless otherwise stated, and may be subject to revision.

Annual revision of fees

Students on programmes of study of more than one year (or studying standalone modules) should be aware that the majority of fees will increase annually. The University will take a range of factors into account, including, but not limited to, UK inflation, changes in delivery costs and changes in Scottish and/or UK Government funding. Changes in fees will be published on the University website in October each year for the following year of study and any annual increase will be capped at a maximum of 10% per year.

Please note: the fees shown are annual and may be subject to an increase each year. Find out more about fees .

How can I fund my course?

• Students from Scotland

Scottish postgraduate students

Scottish postgraduate students may be able to apply for support from the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS). The support is in the form of a tuition fee loan and for eligible students, a living cost loan. Find out more about the support and how to apply .

Don’t forget to check our scholarship search for more help with fees and funding.

• Students from England

Students coming from England

Students ordinarily resident in England may be to apply for postgraduate support from Student Finance England. The support is a loan of up to £10,280 which can be used for both tuition fees and living costs.  Find out more about the support and how to apply .

Don’t forget to check our scholarship search for more help with fees and funding .

• Students from Wales

Students coming from Wales

Students ordinarily resident in Wales may be to apply for postgraduate support from Student Finance Wales. The support is a loan of up to £10,280 which can be used for both tuition fees and living costs.  Find out more about the support and how to apply .

• Students from Northern Ireland

Students coming from Northern Ireland

Postgraduate students who are ordinarily resident in Northern Ireland may be able to apply for support from Student Finance Northern Ireland. The support is a tuition fee loan of up to £5,500.  Find out more about the support and how to apply .

We've a large range of scholarships available to help you fund your studies.  Check our scholarship search for more help with fees and funding .

Chat to a student ambassador

If you want to know more about what it’s like to be a Humanities & Social Sciences student at the University of Strathclyde, a selection of our current students are here to help!

Our Unibuddy ambassadors can answer all the questions you might have about courses and studying at Strathclyde, along with offering insight into their experiences of life in Glasgow and Scotland.

Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences Scholarships

• EU Engagement Scholarships  are available to EU applicants who would have previously been eligible for Home (Scottish/EU) fee status

Dean's International Excellence Awards

We have a limited number of  Dean’s International Excellence Awards worth between £4,000 and £5,000  available to international postgraduate taught applicants with exceptional results. To apply, you must hold an offer to a full-time postgraduate taught degree programme starting in January 2025 before your scholarship application will be considered.

Heather Melville

The lecturers, supervisors and professional services we have come into contact with on the course have been extremely supportive: always willing to support and advise on anything from study skills and how to be successful in assignments to future career options.

Nicola Robertson

Thanks to my positive experience on the MSc Education Studies, and thanks to the encouragement of my supervisor, I have applied to study a PhD in Education.

For me, this course provides me an opportunity to learn more theories about the philosophy of education and explore broader thinking space. The MSc Education Studies guides me to revalue and re-think about education from a metaphysical point of view to the real world without limitations.

Heather Kent

This course has shown me how I can look at education in a different perspective than other educators, people may think that education and learning can be just be found in a formal school setting, but education can be found almost anywhere - if you know how to look for it.

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Our campus is based right in the very heart of Glasgow. We're in the city centre, next to the Merchant City, both of which are great locations for sightseeing, shopping and socialising alongside your studies.

Start date : Jan 2025

Education studies (january intake), start date : sep 2025, education studies, prospective student enquiries.

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Have you considered?

We've a range of postgraduate taught and Masters courses similar to this one which may also be of interest.

• Autism (MEd)
• Education Studies (MEd)
• Educational Leadership (MEd)
• Doctorate of Education (EdD)
• TESOL & Intercultural Communication (MSc)

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