MA / PGCert / PGDip Education

The general aim of the course is to produce graduates who are autonomous, able to carry out ethical research studies in different educational contexts, and who can recognised the importance of the application of education theories and research to understand education debates and policies across a range of educational settings and contexts.

This course is designed for a wide range of people interested in education, such as those who currently, or are wanting to, work in an education setting or education policy or research contexts. These education settings range from early years to higher education and all sectors in between and beyond formal education. Therefore the course is designed to provide different modes and routes that are suited to the breadth of potential students who have a range of expertise and experience. As such it has a generic approach to the modules which can then be applied locally and in different contexts.

The part time MA route has been structured to allow you to join the MA at different stages based on your accredited prior learning (APL). Within the part time route three modules are offered for offsite teaching, which are designed for groups of employees to undertake level 7 study onsite in the school, college or other educational setting where they are employed, under the guidance of the university tutor.

Students will also achieve PgCert and PgDip exit awards during this course.

What you'll study

This is a demanding and exciting research-based programme. It requires you to immerse yourself in reading, thinking, discussion, reflection and writing, enabling you to take the next, critical step in your professional learning.

The degree allows you to investigate a range of issues impacting on education in general and your own field in particular. We want you to challenge your thinking.

Assessment

A wide range of creative assessment strategies are used in the course, which will develop the skills, knowledge and expertise you will need to develop an effective professional profile relevant to, or progression within, their desired career area. These include:

• Seminar presentations;
• Research posters;
• Critical reviews of published research;
• Extended critical reflections on your own practice and professional development experiences;
• Research study in an area of your choice.

Careers and employability

The MA Education degree is increasingly seen as both academic enhancement and a means to facilitate career progress. Many graduates have gone on to successful careers within the education sector, pursuing senior roles, while others have continued studying to complete a Professional Doctorate, an MPhil or PhD.

The MA Education programme is a professional development programme and does not confer Qualified Teacher Status.

Applicants will be expected to have achieved a 2:2 honours degree, or equivalent, at undergraduate level in a relevant area of study. Applicants with a third class honours degree will be considered alongside evidence of successful achievement of at least 30 credits at Masters Level in the last 3 years. Equivalent international qualifications are acceptable for entry to the programme. Work experience is preferred, but applications will be considered without it.