EDUCATION

MA 

Accredited by University College Birmingham

Award

MA

Duration

1 year FT / 18 months

Placement

Opportunities available

Entry

September, January (RPL students only)

Fees

View Fees

Department of Education
Upcoming postgraduate webinars

Various dates

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Master’s qualifications are highly regarded by employers and can be advantageous for job applications

In 2024-2025, 57% of jobs posts in education had level 7 as a qualifying factor

Are you currently working within the education sector or are you interested in education? Do you want to boost your career, qualifications and knowledge?

Our Education MA is designed to align with contemporary issues and movements within the education sector. Throughout your time on the course, you will develop a critical understanding of factors related to education which will challenge your perspectives.

Modules cover a wide range of subjects, including social justice and concepts such as inequality, gender, and socioeconomic status, as well as leadership, management and mentoring. The course has been designed to provide students with the skills they need to make the next step in their career.

The variety of topics available provide depth of knowledge, alongside the analytical and research skills necessary to manage complex issues and oversight in educational organisations.

This course does not provide students with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) but is a great next step for those considering roles in education outside of teaching. 

Why choose this course?

  • ONE-TO-ONE SUPPORT – You will be allocated a personal tutor to support you through your studies on this course
  • EXPERT TUITION – Study with industry professionals who are experts in their field and have a wide range of industry experience
  • NO EXAMS - If you are not keen on exams, this course is for you. You will have no written exams during or at the end of the course and will be assessed through practical assessments and coursework only
  • AWARD-WINNING UNIVERSITY – We were regional winners for student support, international and postgraduate in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, as voted for by students
  • FLEXIBLE LEARNING –  Blended delivery provides flexibility for you to weave your study around work commitments
  • ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS - Students on this course will also receive a ILM Level 7 Award in Strategic Leadership and Management and a Mental Health First Aid qualification (included in course fees) 

Our facilities

Our state-of-the-art facilities, include spacious teaching and learning environments such as classrooms, lecture theatres and computer rooms. You will also have access to a range of independent learning spaces including our academic library, Thinkspace, learning pods and more.  

Course Breakdown

  • Education MA

Modules

Introduction to Education: Theory, Practice, and Policy

A foundational module that explores the key concepts, theories, and practices within the field of education. You will examine historical, social, and cultural influences on education systems and policies, offering insights into how educational theory shapes teaching and learning. The module also addresses current educational policies and practices, exploring their impact on students, educators, and communities. You will gain an understanding of various educational frameworks and develop critical thinking skills to assess and contribute to the evolving landscape of education.

Innovative Practices in 21st Century Education

This is a dynamic module that focuses on the transformative approaches shaping modern education. You will explore cutting-edge teaching methods, technologies, and learning environments that promote student engagement, critical thinking, and creativity. The module examines how innovation can be integrated into curriculum design, assessment strategies, and how the use of digital tools can enhance learning experiences. You will critically analyse emerging trends in education and gain transferable skills, preparing them to meet the challenges of 21st-century learners.

Social Justice in Education

A module that explores the principles of equity, fairness, and inclusion within educational systems. You will examine how social, cultural, economic, and political factors impact access to education and educational outcomes. The module encourages you to critically analyse issues such as discrimination, privilege, and systemic inequality in schools, and to explore strategies for promoting social justice through policy, pedagogy, and practice.

Educational equality and inclusion for all

A module that focuses on creating equitable and inclusive learning environments for students from diverse backgrounds and with a range of needs. You will explore the principles and practices necessary to ensure all learners, regardless of their life experiences, have opportunities to succeed. The module examines strategies for addressing barriers to learning, promoting inclusivity in curriculum design, and fostering a culture of respect and belonging in educational settings. You will gain the knowledge and skills needed to support diverse learners and advocate for policies and practices that promote educational equality and inclusion for all.

Critical Reflection on Educational Practice

This module encourages students to engage in a deep and systematic examination of their own practices, beliefs, and experiences within education. The module emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, ongoing professional development, and the ability to adapt educational practices to meet diverse learners' needs. You will also explore the role of reflection in fostering continuous improvement, enhancing pedagogical effectiveness, and promoting social justice and inclusivity in education. By the end of the module, you will be equipped with the skills to engage in meaningful reflection and make informed, evidence-based decisions to improve their educational practice.

Global Perspectives on Teaching and Learning

This module explores global education systems, examining diverse teaching practices, cultural influences, and learning environments from various countries. It delves into how education policies, pedagogical approaches, and classroom strategies differ across regions, and how these factors impact student outcomes. The module encourages you to undertake comparative analysis of educational models, highlighting both challenges and innovations in teaching. It also emphasises the role of globalisation, technology, and socio-political factors in shaping educational practices worldwide.

Student-Directed Study

This module offers you the flexibility to choose a topic of personal interest related to education, allowing you to explore an area you are passionate about in depth. You are encouraged to identify a subject within the field of education that aligns with your academic and professional goals and then negotiate your own assessment criteria with the module leader. The module fosters a personalised learning experience, where students can design and pursue a project that reflects their unique interests and needs.

Leadership, Management, and Mentoring in Education

This module focuses on developing key leadership and management skills. You will explore theories of leadership, the roles and responsibilities of leaders, and effective management strategies. The module also emphasises the importance of mentoring in supporting professional development and fostering collaborative learning. You will critically engage with different leadership styles, management practices, and mentoring techniques, considering their practical applications in schools, colleges, or other educational environments. By the end of the module, you will have a deeper understanding of how leadership, management, and mentoring impacts upon educational practices and outcomes. Students who pass this module will also receive an ILM Level 7 Award in Strategic Leadership and Management through dual accreditation (subject to validation)

Evidence and Enquiry

This module is a research methods course, focusing on the principles and practices of educational research. You will be introduced to a range of research methodologies and data collection techniques, helping them develop the skills necessary to critically engage with existing educational research and conduct their own investigations. It covers both qualitative and quantitative research methods, ethical considerations, and the processes of designing, analysing, and interpreting research studies. By the end of the module, you will have a solid foundation in research methods, preparing them to carry out independent research projects in the field of education.

Independent Project in Education

This module provides you with the opportunity to engage in self-directed learning on a topic of your choice. Specifically, you are asked to identify an issue or need in the local community, research that issue (both locally and more broadly), propose a solution, test the solution, evaluate your results and consider next steps. This module encourages critical thinking, research skills, and academic independence, allowing you to explore an area of education that aligns with your professional interests or career goals. You will be supported by a supervisor, but you are expected to manage your own research, analysis, and written work.

The modules listed above for this course are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up to date and informed by industry as well as the latest teaching methods. On occasion, we may need to make unexpected changes to modules – if this occurs, we will contact all offer holders as soon as possible.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

Academic

  • Applicants should have a degree or equivalent qualification, or professional experience that equates to degree level. Applications from candidates with relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. Each application will be considered on its merits and the final decision will be made by the programme leader.
  • Applicants may be required to attend an interview for this course.
  • English and Maths GCSEs at grade C/grade 4 or above (or equivalent). Non-standard entry applicants will be considered on their merits. Evidence of qualification must be submitted. 
  • Applicants must supply a full transcript and two academic references at the point of application. 

Work-based

Relevant work experience will be considered if you do not hold a related degree. You may be asked for references detailing your role and responsibilities and a meeting with the programme team may be arranged to ensure your suitability prior to a place being offered.

International Students

International Students

  • Applicants should have a degree or equivalent qualification, or professional experience that equates to degree level. Applications from candidates with relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. Each application will be considered on its merits and the final decision will be made by programme leader
  • IELTS or equivalent*: 7.0 overall, with no component lower than 6.5
  • English and maths GCSEs at grade C/grade 4 or above (or equivalent). Non-standard entry applicants will be considered on their merits. Evidence of qualification is required
  • Applicants must supply a full transcript and two academic references at the point of application
  • In addition, students who have resided outside the UK will be required to provide evidence of a satisfactory overseas police check. Instructions on how to complete these checks will be provided once you hold a firm offer for this course
  • For academic and English entry requirements for EU and international students, please visit the Country Specific Information page.

Please note: As an International Student, when choosing optional placement, a visa extension may be required.

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)

Students on this course may be asked to apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check if they wish to work with or carry out research with vulnerable groups. University College Birmingham will co-ordinate and fund the completion of the DBS check.

Key information

Teaching and assessment

Teaching and assessment

Students will experience various teaching methods and settings including:

  • Lectures and Seminars (both online and face-to-face)
  • Tutorials
  • Individual and group presentations
  • Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) - electronic resources to facilitate face-to-face learning
  • Weekly Graduate Advantage sessions

Small seminar groups will allow you to apply lecture material and build confidence with support from your lecturers.

A range of authentic assessment methods are available to students, which reflect real world scenarios, including evaluation and critical analysis. Central to these will be the student’s ability to engage in critical reflective practice. There will also be an independent project component, where students are able to carry out a project with a focus of their choosing.

Timetable

We understand that you need to balance study with work, so wherever possible your lessons will be timetabled into 2-3 days a week for full-time and one day a week for part-time study. Alongside this, one module per semester will be taught wholly online with both synchronous and asynchronous activity.

Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy 2021-2024.

Tuition fees for home students

If you are a home student enrolling on a postgraduate degree course at University College Birmingham in 2024/2025, the tuition fee for full-time study will be £9,350 per year. For part-time study, the fee will be £4,675 per year.

In 2025/2026, the tuition fee for [Band 1] courses for full-time study will be £9,500 per year. For part-time study, the fee will be £4,750 per year.

View tuition fees for home students

Tuition fees for international students

If you are an international student (or have been fee assessed as an international fee payer) and enrolling on a full-time postgraduate degree course in 2024/2025, the fee for the academic year will be £15,000. If you complete a placement year, there will be an administration fee of £500 for a full year or £250 for a half-year placement.

In 2025/2026, the tuition fee for [Band 1] courses will be £17,000 for the academic year.

View fees for international students

Fee discount – it pays to stay with us

Undergraduate students progressing to postgraduate studies

For courses starting in 2025/26, University College Birmingham students who achieve a first class Honours degree will receive a 25% discount off their postgraduate fees. All other students will receive a 20% discount.

This applies to all alumni of University College Birmingham. No application is necessary. We will apply the discount at enrolment. 

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Students who hold a postgraduate qualification in a relevant field (such as a PGCE or PGDipEd) may be eligible to apply the ‘Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)’ process, allowing them to transfer their Level 7 credits towards the course.

February start dates will be available to students wishing to use RPL.

Unibuddy Community - meet other students on your course

Starting university is an exciting time, but we understand that it can sometimes feel a little daunting. To support you, you will be invited to join our Unibuddy Community, where you can meet other students who have applied for the same course at University College Birmingham, before you start studying here.

As soon as you have been made an offer, you will be sent an invitation email to complete your registration and join the Unibuddy Community. For more information, check out our Unibuddy Community page.

Additional costs

Outside of course costs, students may expect to pay for printing (optional) and personal stationery and study materials (optional). Any  essential field trips and associated travel will be covered by course fees. The cost of the ILM Level 7 Award in Strategic Leadership and Management, and the Mental Health First Aid qualification are also included within course fees. 

A career working in the education sector can be extremely rewarding. Each day presents a new opportunity to support individuals in a range of contexts. My MA provided me with a strong foundation to excel in my career in Higher Education after transitioning from several years as a primary school teacher and I truly value this aspect of my learning journey. The Education MA is specifically designed to build upon an undergraduate degree and to support individuals in developing level 7 knowledge and skills that can be applied to various educational contexts and support individual practice enhancement. 

Rebecca Taylor Head of Education Department

Career opportunities

The MA Education programme does not lead to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

Education consultant

Average Salary: £34,171

Director of education

Average Salary: £83,433

Ofsted inspector

Average Salary: £42,236

Further education teacher

Average Salary: £33,000

Higher education lecturer

Average salary: £35,211 – £43,367

Headteacher

Average Salary: £63,053

HIRED

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Alison's story

Alison has over a decade of experience in primary school settings, supporting learning and teaching and identifying children with additional support needs. 

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