Masters Degrees (Character Education)

This is the first and only MA Character Education in the world – focusing on the theory and practice of human flourishing. The programme adopts a broad understanding of character – encompassing aspects of wellbeing, ethics, citizenship and social and emotional education. 

Students on the course come from a range of sectors; including education (formal and non-formal), voluntary and business. The curriculum allows students to apply the topics most relevant to their personal or employers interests and goals.

The course will be run by The Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtueswhich is widely acknowledged as one of the foremost research and teaching centres in the world specialising in the examination of how character and virtues impact on individuals and society. You will be taught by some of the best known names, both in Britain and internationally, in character education. 

Watch this ‘can you teach character’ mini film for an example of the learning and teaching materials.

The MA in Character is a part-time distance learning programme which offers both flexibility and an opportunity to debate key questions about the purpose of education with fellow students around the world. 

There are 3 awards associated with the MA in Character Education

• PGCert (3 modules, 60 credits over 12 months)
• PGDip (6 modules, 120 credits over 24 months)
• MA (6 modules and a dissertation, 180 credits over 3 years)

Download information on all the postgraduate study programmes in the School of Education (PDF)

Course details

Drawing on the wealth of research and experience of academics in the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues and internationally regarded academics attached to the Centre, this programme will enable you to develop your knowledge and expertise in the field of character education.

The main features of the course include:

• It's multi-disciplinary – it will include learning from the fields of education, philosophy, (positive) psychology, sociology, social sciences and theology
• It's flexible – the learning is guided but you will work through it at their own pace
• It is suitable for professionals seeking to transform their organisation or career, or individuals looking for a foundation for further graduate study such as a PhD
• It utilises the latest technology to ensure an engaging and participatory online learning experience
• You will work within a supportive learning environment - all students have a dedicated personal tutor
• The assignments and dissertations can be directed towards personal and professional interests in the field
• There will be an opportunity to work alongside and learn from fellow students across the globe
• It is practice focused – the learning contributes to making a transformative difference 

The programme will provide you with a broad multidisciplinary knowledge and understanding of how key theories in psychology, philosophy and education inform planning, administration, policy and professional practice. Through modules including various forms of assessment, and dedicated personal tutorial support, you will learn to critically evaluate education research from theoretical and methodological perspectives in order to contribute to character education and will gain fundamental skills in data analysis and critical thinking, which can be applied to your own professional contexts.

The programme includes an optional on-campus residential for students. This is highly recommended for students in the Uk and Europe and the rest of the world. 

Learning and teaching

Learning takes place on the Canvas virtual learning platform. Each module is broken up into 5 units of learning - which you work through at your own pace over the duration of two weeks. Modules last 11 weeks (5 units plus a reading week) and 3 are completed consecutively throughout each of the first two years. The final year consists of a dissertation on a topic of your choice.

Each unit consist of a number of steps – including mini teaching films explaining key concepts, associated reading (mainly free and available through the online library), and interactive elements including discussion boards and quizzes. Assignments are normally due 4 to 5 weeks after completion of the fifth unit. Time to complete assignments generally coincides with the Christmas, Easter or summer holidays.

You will have a designated Programme Tutor who will be in regular contact with you through the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), via email, telephone or Skype. In addition you will also have regular contact with the Module Leaders / Tutors through VLE, email, Sykpe and telephone.

Lecturers running modules on the course will include: Professor James Arthur, Professor Kristjan Kristjansson, Dr Tom Harrison as well as other internationally recognised names in the field. 

Assessment will be through essays, online presentations (written or verbal), a fieldwork report and a dissertation.

Employability

The MA in Character Education has been developed in response to the overwhelming interest in character education (and associated concerns such as wellbeing, social mobility, ethics) from policy makers and parents as well as teachers themselves. Completion of the programme will ensure that you will further your understanding of this area and will gain the knowledge and experience to implement informed change in your own organisation. 

Profiles of students on the programme vary. Current students include head teachers who want to transform their school through character education, teachers who have taken character lead positions in their schools, recent graduates looking for further studies in education, individuals looking for foundational learning for a PhD, individuals running and working for charities and not for profit businesses and parents looking to further their theoretical and / or practical enhanced knowledge about character. Paralympian swimmer Elizabeth Wright, shares her views on the programme in this article in 'the Guardian'

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The MA Programme in Education engages with education across the age range from early years to adulthood and is relevant to a wide diversity of educational settings. There is a strong focus on social justice and inclusion and the opportunity to reflect on your own professional practice throughout the courses.

The course offers a unique opportunity for experienced professionals to gain a practice-focused higher degree. Specialisms in Autism and SEND are also available. Individual MA modules can also be taken as Continued Professional Development (CPD). Accreditation of Prior Learning is also possible within the all the MA programmes at LSBU. If you have completed EIC and SEND options at LSBU you are a third of the way there! (APEL from other universities is also possible).

Students will gain much from working with a diverse group of peers and tutors from a wide range of educational backgrounds. The close association between the Centre for Educational Research and the MA provides opportunities to work with like-minded research-active peers within a lively and supportive learning community. Opportunities for accreditation of prior learning are available to participants with an appropriate background and this should be discussed with the admissions tutor who will also explain the CPD processes on request.

Modes of study:

• Within a partnership school as part of a school cohort.
• As an independent student.

The programme's distinctive and innovative feature is its school-based character. For most participants their schools and colleges have always been the context of their study. This programme allows the work that participants do, as they write about issues of central concern to themselves and their institutions, to be properly valued. It places much importance upon the value of a professional practice approach to study at Masters level, allowing all aspects of this practice to inform and to be informed by critical reading of the literature, by theory and by relevant research.

Teaching and learning

Students also have the opportunity of benefiting from engagement with the research profile of the Education Department, with its particular expertise in global citizenship and sustainable development education, equality and inclusion, and the personal and social development of young people in schools.

You'll benefit from an up to date Virtual Learning Environment via Moodle and be actively encouraged to make use of the extensive range of support services across the university. You'll have access to a supervisor during the dissertation phase.

Placements

Access to the workplace (including voluntary work) is essential for most of the modules within the MA.

Professional links

The course has been designed and developed in partnership with schools, Southwark Local Authority and other Educational stakeholders in the London area. The MA would provide an excellent pathway to the LSBU's Doctorate in Education (EdD), which has a special focus on equality, diversity and sustainability.

We are continually reviewing, in partnership with participating schools and students, the provision of units, developing the course to meet the ongoing needs of participants.

Colleagues from the School of Law and Social Sciences, in particular the Families and Social Capital Group, are regular contributors as guest lecturers. Speakers from a range of external organisations also contribute to units across the course. Recent guest lectures have been given by disabled academics and parents of pupils who have experienced special education.

The department has wide professional links within and beyond the university and the UK. Examples include:

• The Equality Challenge Unit
• The Alliance for Inclusive Education
• Equality and Diversity Forum Research Network
• The Leadership Foundation
• Research Autism
• Theorising Autism Project
• Teacher Education for Equality and Sustainability Network (TEESNet)
• National Association of Disability Practitioners
• Commonworks (for a just and sustainable world)

Employability

The MA Programme in Education is designed to deepen your understanding of working with pupils /students in any educational setting, across the age range into adult education. It is therefore relevant to employment in school, college, alternative education settings and to work with disabled students at college and university. Content is applicable to teachers and staff in non- teaching roles, such as mentor, disability officer or learning support assistant. The content is also relevant to staff in strategic and operational leadership roles.

The programme is designed to complement and support all current career and professional development initiatives and frameworks. It will naturally extend to the provision of evidence required for addressing the Professional Standards for teachers and hence progression throughout the teaching profession.

LSBU Employability Services

LSBU is committed to supporting you develop your employability and succeed in getting a job after you have graduated. Your qualification will certainly help, but in a competitive market you also need to work on your employability, and on your career search. Our Employability Service will support you in developing your skills, finding a job, interview techniques, work experience or an internship, and will help you assess what you need to do to get the job you want at the end of your course. LSBU offers a comprehensive Employability Service, with a range of initiatives to complement your studies, including:

• Direct engagement from employers who come in to interview and talk to students
• Job Shop and on-campus recruitment agencies to help your job search
• Mentoring and work shadowing schemes.

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In partnership with Aardman, this intensive 3 month Certificate in Character Animation is aimed primarily at graduates and is taught by industry professionals within Aardman studios here in Bristol.

The course is led by Loyd Price, Head of Animation at Aardman (Chicken Run, Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit, Flushed Away, Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists and Nightmare Before Christmas) and taught by Inez Woldman (Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Morph, Creature Comforts) with the aim of bridging the gap between education and industry and enabling students to develop the core practical skills needed to become competent professional animators and to create believable characters through acting and performance.

The course has an incredibly successful track record with over 80% of graduates now working in the industry at Aardman and at studios such as Animortal, Factory Transmedia, Blue Zoo, Isle of Dogs and Traveller’s Tales. This year we are delighted to announce Factory Transmedia are formally supporting the course.

Students will also benefit from one-to-one feedback sessions and masterclasses with industry professionals, past speakers have included Turner, Passion Pictures, Blue Zoo, Factory Transmedia, Traveller’s Tales, Animortal and DreamWorks outreach.

Following on from a busy 2016 with the production of Early Man, the latest stop frame feature film from Academy Award® winning director Nick Park in full swing and a Shaun the Sheep Movie sequel in pre-production, Aardman are delighted to announce the new course dates for 2017. This year’s 3 month Certificate in Character Animation course will run from 25th September to 15th December and we are now accepting applications.

The course is open to both CG (Maya) and Stop Frame with a maximum of six students in each discipline. Course fees are £4500 which include free lunches and a two week paid internship in Industry after graduation.

COURSE OVERVIEW

This course will take place at Aardman’s studio in Bristol and will be taught by practicing Aardman animators who have worked on many productions including Wallace and Gromit, Chicken Run, Flushed Away, The Pirates! and the Shaun the Sheep Movie. There will also be additional support from other industry professionals from both the stop frame and CG animation disciplines including Factory Transmedia who we are delighted to announce will be formally supporting the course this year.

The course is short but very intensive with the main aim being to produce students with the level of animation skills needed to allow them to get jobs as animators within this competitive industry. While this is no guarantee of future success, to date over 80% of former students have become animators within the industry.

The course is open to a maximum of 6 Stop Frame and 6 CG students, with the students working in either CG (using Maya) or Stop Frame (using Dragon-Frame). Students will be taught in small groups to enable maximum contact time with staff and other visiting tutors. The course will be taught in a series of weekly assignments, each focusing on a key aspect of animation performance. Students will be encouraged to repeat and finesse each assignment during the week. The course will be based on learning technical and practical skills, providing a foundation on which students can become technically proficient animators and thereby enable them to bring their characters to life. The course is structured to build from simpler exercises towards a short sequence demonstrating character-based performance, which will be animated within scheduled production deadlines.

The course runs from 9.30 – 6pm Monday to Friday. The course fee also includes free weekday lunches and a two week paid placement after graduation in a studio in the U.K. Past placements have included Factory Transmedia, Blue Zoo, Animortal, Isle of Dogs – Wes Anderson Feature, Aardman, JellyFish, and Travellers Tales.

On completion of the course students will:
-Have improved technical animation skills
-Be able to deliver convincing character acting and performance
-Produce their work to a deadline
-Understand the role of an animator with a production
-Have benefited from masterclasses with key industry professionals
-Have completed an industry placement

CURRICULUM

This is a 12 week full time intensive and practical course based at the Aardman studio’s in Bristol. The majority of the course is practical with students working on animation exercises to improve their skills, knowledge and experience.

Initially the course will focus on the core animation skills to ensure that students understand the key animation principles such as timing, weight and lines of action. These technical aspects of animation underpin character performance and are essential to enable students to achieve convincing performance.

Further character-based performance exercises increase the understanding of Character Posing, Blocking and Plotting the action within the shot or sequence. Each exercise builds on what has been learned in the previous week and students will have the opportunity to video themselves acting out variations of the exercises to guide and inform their work.

The course culminates in a short character animation sequence - pre-planned and boarded to showcase the skills learnt during the course. This sequence will be created within the parameters of a realistic production schedule and will reflect the pressures of a live production.

To complement the intensive animation training, students will have life drawing sessions, acting workshops as well as industry masterclasses. These give the students invaluable contacts within the industry moving forwards, as well as tips on how to promote yourself and the soft skills needed within a competitive industry. Past speakers have included companies such as Blue Zoo, Lupus, Jellyfish, Passion Pictures, Factory Transmedia, Turner, Richard Williams, Nick Park, MPC, DNeg and Dreamworks.

The course finishes with a graduation screening which is open to industry, giving students the platform to show their work and network with future employers.

Following on from the course we are aiming to secure a small number of paid internships with production companies based here in the UK. On previous courses these internships have taken place at companies such as Factory Transmedia, Blue Zoo as well as at Aardman. In many cases these placements then led to the students being offered jobs as animators.

-Daily tuition from animators currently working within the Industry
-Unique fast-track route into the Industry with many students going on to work as animators for UK animation companies
-Working methods based on Industry practice
-Situated in a professional studio environment at Aardman in Bristol
-Learn from BAFTA and Oscar winning animators
-Masterclass sessions from external industry

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This is a Masters-level qualification in teacher education.

Why this programme

• If you are an aspiring teacher, this programme will provide you with the knowledge, skills and values you need to become the committed professional necessary for today’s schools.
• The programme consists of 18 weeks of study in the University and 18 weeks of school experience in our partner schools
• As well as offering courses in educational and curricular issues, the programme also highlights the importance of practitioner enquiry. This systematic reflection on teaching in the classroom gives the programme its distinctive Masters character.

Programme structure

The programme will prepare you to meet the demands of the profession through the following areas of study:

• Understanding learning and teaching
• Learning and teaching in the primary/ secondary curriculum
• Professional enquiry 
• School placements.

We also offer the Catholic Teacher’s Certificate in Religious Education.

Secondary teaching qualifications are offered in the following subjects:

• Art and design
• Biology
• Business education
• Chemistry
• Computing
• English
• Geography
• History
• Mathematics
• Modern languages (French, French with Spanish, French with Italian, French with German, Spanish with French)
• Modern studies
• Physics
• Religious education.

Career prospects

_{GTC Qualification}

You will have the General Teaching Council (GTC) for Scotland qualification to pursue teaching roles in schools. Many of our graduates are teaching not only in Scotland’s primary and secondary schools, but throughout the UK and further abroad.

_{Professional Practice with PGDE, MEd} 

On successful completion of your PGDE you will have the opportunity to transfer your 90 Masters-level credits from your PGDE into this programme. For further information, please see:

• Professional Practice with PGDE

_{Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for Teachers}

The School of Education also provides an extensive range of CPD opportunities for teachers and others involved in education. Our CPD is designed to be as flexible as possible, including daytime, twilight, weekend and vacation modes, and ranging from one-off courses to full programmes. For further information, please see:

• CPD For Teachers

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This is a Masters-level qualification in teacher education.

Why this programme

• If you are an aspiring teacher, this programme will provide you with the knowledge, skills and values you need to become the committed professional necessary for today’s schools.
• As well as offering courses in educational and curricular issues, the programme also highlights the importance of practitioner enquiry. This systematic reflection on teaching in the classroom gives the programme its distinctive Masters character.
• The programme consists of 18 weeks of study in the University and 18 weeks of school experience in our partner schools. 

Programme structure

The programme will prepare you to meet the demands of the profession through the following areas of study:

• Understanding learning and teaching
• Learning and teaching in the primary curriculum
• Professional enquiry
• School placements.

We also offer the Catholic Teacher’s Certificate in Religious Education.

Career prospects

_{GTC Qualification}

You will have the General Teaching Council (GTC) for Scotland qualification to pursue teaching roles in schools. Many of our graduates are teaching not only in Scotland’s primary and secondary schools, but throughout the UK and further abroad.

_{Professional Practice with PGDE, MEd} 

On successful completion of your PGDE you will have the opportunity to transfer your 90 Masters-level credits from your PGDE into this programme. For further information, please see:

• Professional Practice with PGDE

_{Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for Teachers}

The School of Education also provides an extensive range of CPD opportunities for teachers and others involved in education. Our CPD is designed to be as flexible as possible, including daytime, twilight, weekend and vacation modes, and ranging from one-off courses to full programmes. For further information, please see:

• CPD For Teachers

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Overview

Our next intake of the PGCEi for 2016/17, with completion by September 2017 , will commence 1st - August 2016, when we will offer the taught modules on a residential basis at Keele University in the UK. Keele University is one of the top teaching and research universities in the UK and has been delivering postgraduate programmes for international school teachers and administrators since 2010. Aimed at in-service teachers in International Schools, Universities, and Language Schools across South East Asia who are seeking professional certification, the Keele PGCEi offers course members direct and extensive taught input by UK education specialists.

The Post Graduate Certificate in Education (International) (PGCEi) is a one year part-time programme, commencing in August and concluding in June the following year. It is accredited, validated, taught and assessed by Keele University, UK. The course is designed for in-service teachers currently working in international schools and similar organisations and who wish to acquire an internationally recognised teaching certificate. It is also suitable for non-qualified British in-service teachers seeking their first move into international schooling.

The PGCEi can be undertaken in any country. The only attendance requirement is a one week residential held at Keele University, UK, in early August. The remainder of the programme is delivered by distance learning and a 12 week in-school assessed teaching practice. The aim of this prestigious, highly accessible and specialist teaching qualification is to advance a teacher’s career and professional development, together with their international employment prospects. Previous graduates of the Keele PGCEi work in leading international schools around the world.

Overview of Key Features:
- Annual entry for experienced in-service teachers seeking professional certification

- Two modules delivered during a 5 day residential held at Keele University, in August 2016

- One module delivered by distance learning

- 12 week flexible teaching practice for in-service teachers (undertaken in current school)

- Based on Keele University’s highly successful UK PGCE

- Designed to be flexible in order to accommodate the diverse demands of international schooling.

- Suitable for those working in Kindergarten, Primary, Secondary or Post-compulsory Education Sectors, including Language Schools, Bilingual Schools, State Schools and applicable to all major curriculum (including IB, AP and the National Curriculum of Engalnd and Wales).

- Opportunity to progress to full MA Education (International)

NB: Qualified Teachers Status in England is conferred by the Department of Education and not by universities. This PGCEi does not therefore offer a licence to teach in the UK. Similarly, the programme does not confer Qualified Teachers Status for the Learning and Skills Sector (Post-compulsory education).

Keele University reserves the right to alter any aspect of the PGCEi programme, including fees, without prior notice

See the website https://www.keele.ac.uk/sspp/postgraduatetaught/education/international/pgcei/

Course Aims

- To support the development of education professionals;

- To develop the ability to critically examine a wide range of educational issues, especially those pertinent to working in international schools;

- To support course participants in developing the knowledge skills and competencies they require to be effective practitioners in the classroom, and in the wider school/college environment.

Course Content

One year part-time, semi-distance learning programme with designated Keele University tutor support throughout:

Taught Modules:
- Learners, Learning and Assessment (30 credits): UK residential
This module examines the relationship between learning theories and classroom practice; Students will consider questions such as what do we know about how students learn? How do these ideas affect our practice as educators? What factors affect student learning? How might we take those factors into account when deciding what we want students to know understand and be able to do? How has the concept of multiple intelligences affected classroom practice? Why do we assess students? Who decides what to assess? How fit for purpose are the assessment instruments that we use?

- International Educational Practice (15 credits): UK residential
This module explores the changing world of international education, especially international schools in Asia. It reflects on the ‘nature’ of international identity, both for teachers and students, and critically explores what it means to be ‘international’ in an educational context together with associated practices. In examining the diverse character of international education, the module also encourages course members to reflect on identity elements such as gender, race, class, ethnicity and culture.

- Creative Practice (15 credits): distance learning
The module will critically examine definitions of creativity as applied to classroom practice, course members will be asked to consider the perspective from which creativity is defined and the criteria that are used as the basis for the definition. Students will explore the practical implications of teaching creatively and teaching for creativity and will have the opportunity to critically examine alternative models of learning and teaching and how can they be incorporated into their practice.

Programme includes 12 weeks main teaching practice (15 credits), which is undertaken in your current school.

Teaching & Assessment

Assessment:
- 3 formal assignments of c. 3,500 words;
- a series of formative assessment activities;
- final portfolio with reflective essay;
- reflective journal/log
- assessment of capability in the classroom with end of placement reports.

Academic modules offer outcomes at Masters level or Professional Graduate level (final outcome based upon level of performance in the assignments).

Work that does not secure a 50% pass grade can be resubmitted.

Programme Team:
Our tutors are highly experienced in education provision both in the UK and in Asia:
- Graeme Easdown (Programme Director)
- Denry Machin (Placements Co-ordinator)

Find information on Scholarships here - http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentfunding/bursariesscholarships/

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The EdD is a research degree for experienced professionals from education and related fields who would like to extend their professional understanding and develop skills in research, evaluation and high-level reflection on practice. The student cohort provides an important element of the programme.

The EdD programme aims to foster professional development through research as well as meeting the requirements of rigour and originality expected of a doctorate. From the start you will work with a specialist supervisor to begin to develop research in a field of your choice related to your professional interests. This programme has a UK focus; we also offer an internationally focused EdD programme. See http://www.ioe.ac.uk/study/RED9_EDUINT.html for details.

Programme of study and assessment
The programme has three components:
Taught element
The taught element consists of the courses listed below. It is assessed through a portfolio of three assignments of 5,000 words each and a reflective statement. Foundations of professionalism in education This course explores models of professionalism and the different expectations of key stakeholders in education. You will think about the meaning of professionalism and the character of professional life, and reflect on your own conception of professionalism and how to develop your professional practice.

Methods of enquiry 1
This course explores the politics and purposes of different types of research and evaluation, and considers theoretical, methodological and ethical issues in the design and conduct of research. You will examine what is meant by ‘data’ in the
context of educational research, and address the relationship between research and practice.

Methods of enquiry 2
This course offers training in a variety of methods of data collection and analysis used in educational research. It will enable you to formulate researchable questions and appropriate research designs, and to select and use appropriate methods.

The institution-focused study (IFS)
The IFS is unique to our EdD programme. It enables you to study an organisation concerned with educational provision, organisation and support with which you are professionally connected. Most EdD students locate their study in their own
employing institution.

While you are preparing for your IFS, you will attend workshops which include input from specialists. You will present the study as a report of about 20,000 words, demonstrating how it has extended your understanding and supported
your professional development. You will normally present the IFS at the end of Year 2.

The thesis
Your thesis, in your chosen specialist area, should be about 45,000 words in length, and should usually be related to your IFS and the taught element of the EdD. It must make a distinct contribution to the knowledge of the field of study and afford evidence of originality and a capacity for autonomous research. At the start of the programme, we will appoint your supervisor from within one of our academic departments, who will provide you with support for your specialist studies. You will normally present your thesis at the end of Year 4. A viva voce held at the end of the programme examines both your thesis and your understanding of the integration of all the elements of your programme.

Length of programme and teaching arrangements
The programme is designed to be completed in four years of part-time study; the maximum period of registration is seven years. The entry date is October each year. The taught part of the programme normally involves attendance at three Friday and Saturday blocks per term. IFS and thesis workshops will support the research component. Your supervisor will meet with you at least once a term during the taught part of the programme, and at least three times a term during the research stage.

For more information and to apply, visit http://www.ioe.ac.uk/study/RED9_EDU999.html

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In this programme you are trained in interdisciplinary approaches to address scientific and societal challenges in the field of (bio)medical sciences. The research in our master programme Biomedical Sciences is related to the maintenance of health and prevention of disease. You will acquire a skill set suitable for a wide range of career opportunities not only in (biomedical) research, but also in industry, policy making and communication/education.

Specialisations

• Biomedical Sciences Research (MSc)
• Biomedical Sciences Communication (MSc)
• Biomedical Sciences Education (MSc)
• Biomedical Sciences Management (MSc)

What does this master’s programme entail?

The first, common, master year provides you with a solid background inBiomedical Sciences via compulsory and elective courses and a research internship. The interdisciplinary character of the first year offers you great opportunities to address health and disease-related issues from various directions. The second master year is dedicated to one of the above mentioned specialisations.

Five reasons to choose the Master Biomedical Sciences at Leiden University

• The flexibility of our programme allows you to follow your individual interests in the order that suits you best;
• You will have the opportunity to specialise in different areas of research or to zero in on management, communication or education;
• You will enjoy small-group teaching, traineeships, an international classroom and high-quality courses on subjects at the frontiers of science;
• Biomedical Sciences is taught at the Leiden University Medical Center, which is a modern institution where research, education and patient care with a high quality profile and a strong scientific orientation are combined;
• Our alumni have very good job opportunities.

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The Educational Administration and Leadership Program (EDAL) is a graduate program of interest to persons who seek to exercise leadership in a wide array of formal and informal educational settings. Graduates will be prepared to provide leadership as educators, administrators and facilitators of educational change within schools and communities.
As a community of scholars and practitioners, we come from different disciplinary traditions (philosophy, law, educational administration and management, organizational studies, sociology, policy studies, media studies, Indigenous education). We bring to the Program an engagement with education undertaken in national and cultural settings in different regions of the world (South East and Western Asia, North America and the Pacific). We believe that this diversity enriches our teaching and exposes students to both Canadian and international experiences and approaches in the field of educational leadership.

Faculty members take pride in fostering student intellectual growth and in promoting student welfare. We ask much of our students and give much in return. The Program has been operating for over 40 years and has over 800 graduates, many of whom occupy strategic educational roles in schools, school districts, non-governmental organizations and in other community settings. A focus on education and educational leadership rather than “training” gives our program a special character.

Quick Facts

- Degree: Master of Education
- Specialization: Educational Administration and Leadership
- Subject: Education
- Mode of delivery: On campus
- Program components: Coursework + Major Project/Essay required
- Faculty: Faculty of Education

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The Environment, Politics and Society MSc programme explores the way scientific, political and cultural practices shape our understanding of the relationship between society and the environment. It is an academic rather than vocational programme with most students pursuing further education or careers in international organisations, the public sector, NGOs or charities.

About this degree

The programme explores the social, economic, cultural and political processes through which expert and lay knowledges of environmental and political changes is acquired, communicated and incorporated in decision-making. It equips students with a range of social science methods and personal transferable skills which are essential for social and environmental politics, practices and policy.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme offers two routes: standard and research. Standard consists of four core modules (60 credits), options (60 credits) and a research project (60 credits). Research consists of five core modules to include both qualitative and quantitative methods modules (75 credits), options (45 credits) and a research project (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) is offered.

Core modules

• Geo-politics
• Environmental Knowledges
• Environment, Politics and Practice
• Social Science Methodologies (qualitative methods)
• Research route only: Social Science Methodologies (quantitative methods)

All modules running are dependent on staff sabbaticals.

Optional modules

• Changing Landscapes - Nature Conservation
• Changing Landscapes - Nature, Culture and Politics
• Community Participation in City Strategies
• Conservation and Environment Management
• Geographies of Material Culture
• Marine Conservation
• Advanced Geopolitics
• Politics of Climate Change
• Social Science Methodologies
• Thinking Space
• Social Science Methodologies (standard route optional module only)
• Precarious Urban Environments
• Postcolonial Cultural Geographies

Students may also select one module outside the department with the permission of the programme convenor.

Module availability is dependent on staff sabbaticals.

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 15,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, presentations, discussions, workshops, practical classes and field trips. Dissertation seminars provide opportunities to meet previous MSc students to discuss their dissertations and subsequent career. Assessment is through coursework and the research dissertation.

Fieldwork

The Changing Landscapes optional modules have additional costs related to fieldwork.

Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Environment, Politics and Society MSc

Careers

The first cohort of students on the Environment, Politics and Society MSc graduate in 2017. The programme is fundamentally academic in character rather than vocational and we anticipate careers destinations to be broadly similar to the Environment, Science and Society programme which preceded it. Graduates of Environment, Science and Society have gone on to work for governments, environmental non-governmental organisations and consultancies, multi-lateral bodies, the media and think tanks, often in policy, research or communication roles. The MSc also provides an excellent foundation for PhD research.

Employability

The programme's combination of core social science methodological training, detailed exploration of contemporary environmental issues and critical engagement with environmental science, policies and politics, provides a distinctive skill set for those wanting careers in the environmental sector that do not simply replicate current governance approaches. This holistic experience is different from more technical, managerial environmental programmes and facilitates access to careers in international organisations (UNDP, World Bank), government (UK DECC, UK Home Office, Lewisham Council), NGOs (WWF, Greenpeace), education (the Open University, UCL, and the University of Hong Kong) and a wide varity of charitable organisations.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The MSc offers core conceptual training and the ability to specialise your degree through optional modules and the dissertation. You will have the opportunity to learn from previous graduates and other academics and practitioners in seminars

The programme encourages small-group discussions of conceptual debates about practices of environment and geo-politics, drawing on fellow students' diversity of nationalities and academic and work backgrounds.

The MSc offers core conceptual training and the ability to specialise your degree through optional modules and the dissertation. You will have the opportunity to learn from previous graduates and other academics and practitioners in seminars.

Research Excellence Framework (REF)

The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.

The following REF score was awarded to the department: Geography

81% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)

Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.

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Master's specialisation in Practical Theology

This course is about searching for traces of meaning in everyday practices, and looking beyond traditional shapes of religiosity.

Have God and religion disappeared from modern society? According to some scholars of religion there is a global resurgence of religion, yet there is vast secularisation in most European societies continues. How can theology explain the transformation of the Christian religion in society? We need fresh expressions of theological concepts and new methods of research to understand religion beyond traditional studies of religiosity.

In the Master’s specialisation in Practical Theology, students are introduced in theological theory-building to understand the dynamics and meaning of lived religion at four different levels: the personal, inter-group relations, organisational and societal. Students learn to use empirical research methods to build new theological theory based on lived religion. Graduates of this Master’s specialisation in Practical Theology can become researchers, policy makers, educators or spiritual caregivers.

See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/practicaltheology

Why study Practical Theology at Radboud University?

- The new theoretical approach of Practical Theology at Radboud University manifests itself in the search for theological concepts that match the changing shape of the Christian religion in the life of individuals as well as fresh expressions of religious institutions.

- Our department has constructed new, unique methodologies that focus on a qualitative study of narratives, communication, and ritual (liturgy). We have expertise in spiritual biographical research, practice-oriented research and discourse analysis.

- We have a long-standing expertise in survey research, with a specialisation in cross-religious surveys where Christian believers are compared with believers of other religions (Islam, Hinduism).

- This programme is not just geared towards Europe, but also places developments in a global perspective.

- With electives, students have plenty of room to choose a direction that meets their professional and academic interests. Taking a few seminars from the other theology disciplines of choice (Church History, Literary Theology or Practical Theology) is mandatory to broaden students general knowledge on Theology.

- The third year is aimed at training students for a specific profession. Students can choose research (English), education (Dutch), religion and policy (Dutch) or spiritual care (Dutch).

- Teaching takes place in a stimulating, collegial setting with small groups, allowing for ample opportunity for questions and discussion.

- Radboud University and its Theology department are Roman Catholic in origin, but its Master’s programme in Theology is open to all students. Our students have very diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.

Change perspective

Graduates of Practical Theology will be able to pinpoint how certain groups of people view spirituality today, how they give meaning to lives and how this, sometimes, is at odds with traditional religious conventions. You will get insight in the different forms that religion takes in contemporary society and will be able to take that on board when participating in debates in the public arena.

Admission requirements for international students

1. A completed Bachelor's degree in Theology or related area

2. A proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to have fluency in both written and spoken English. Non-native speakers of English without a Dutch Bachelor's degree or VWO diploma need one of the following:

- An TOEFL score of >575 (paper based) or >232 (computer based) or >90 (internet based)

- A IELTS score of >6.5

- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a mark of C or higher

Career prospects

In a globalising world, more and more institutions require skills in theological communication and hermeneutics. Practical theologians search for traces of meaning in everyday practices and look beyond traditional forms of religiosity. Our graduates have an analytical attitude and the skills to make sound judgments which will help them participate in debates in the public arena. Using arguments based on Christian faith, they can convey their faith in society. In addition, the programme teaches you how to think independently and critically about the way that Christian doctrine can give meaning to contemporary issues.

Job positions

The Master’s programme in Theology has a strong emphasis on career prospects by allowing students to focus on one professional path in their third year: research, education, spiritual care or religion and policy.

Our approach to this field

Radboud University’s Master’s specialisation in Practical Theology is all about studying lived religion and lived spirituality. How do people today connect with Christian stories? The role of practical theologians is to research new religious motives. Where and in what way do people find inspiration? How do they give meaning to their lives?

Searching for new forms of religiosity

In other words, at Radboud University, we train our practical theologians to search for new forms of religiosity in order to gain an understanding of the transformation of religion. The church is not the only place for contemplation; sometimes people turn to the beach, the woods or even a health club. Symbols are given new meanings. Metaphors get a different connotation. The challenge is to deal with the tension between religious traditions and the many contemporary forms of spirituality.

We look at the role that religion and spirituality play, not only for individual people, but also for inter-group relationships and on organisational and societal levels. We try to get a grasp on differences between religious practices, how faith schools profile their religious character in their education policy, and how municipalities give religion a place in the services they offer, among other topics.

See the website http://www.ru.nl/masters/practicaltheology

Radboud University Master's Open Day 10 March 2018

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The Anglia Ruskin University Applied Positive Psychology MSc is a taught postgraduate course offering full-time and part-time study options.

Students complete a combination of core and optional modules to earn a full 180 credit Master of Science qualification. Some modules may take place in Cambridge, Paris or online.

Put yourself at the forefront of this developing discipline by joining a strand of applied psychology only offered at a few universities across the world. Discover and discuss the nature of happiness, what helps people thrive and make a difference to everyday lives.

Positive psychology is life changing. Our course helps you investigate the science behind how we can prepare for more successful lives and better well-being, through challenging existing cognitive and emotional patterns and encouraging positivity with evidence-based activities.

You’ll be introduced to research and interventions around topics like positive and negative emotions, character strengths, motivation, resilience, creativity, wisdom and other conditions shown to make a difference to the lives of individuals, groups and organisations. You'll constantly test your skills and apply them to real-life situations, coming to understand which tools and strategies to use in delivering meaningful, high-impact interventions.

You’ll use your new skills to shape businesses, education and communities. Our wide choice of modules means that, whether you work in coaching, business, education or health, you can tailor your studies to your career goals. Our course will also suit you if you have a BSc in psychology and want to further your knowledge.

Our course is taught in Cambridge and Paris. In Paris, teaching takes place at Centre d’Études Diplomatiques et Stratégiques (CEDS), right in the centre of Paris near the Eiffel Tower. In Cambridge, you’ll also have access to our advanced psychology laboratories.

You’ll complete four intensive week-long modules, followed by online research methods teaching and supervision for your major project. In-between times you’ll undertake self-directed study.

Our tutors are leaders in the field of positive psychology. They include:

‌• Dr Ilona Boniwell, CEO of Positran

‌• Dr Richard Piech, cognitive neuroscientist

‌• Dr Christian van Nieuwerburgh, Managing Director of Growth Coaching

‌• Bridget Grenville-Cleave, Director of WorkMad

‌• Alexandre Jost, head of Spinoza Factory, a happiness think-tank

‌• J‌ean-Christophe Barralis and Jean Pages, directors of the French Institute of Appreciative Inquiry.

For an informal chat about our course please contact programme leaders Richard Piech or Ilona Boniwell.

See the website http://www.anglia.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/applied-positive-psychology

Careers

You could find yourself using positive psychology within training, government, an organisation or even in life coaching. You might want to use the sustainable well-being and development skills you gain in the charity, social enterprise or heath sectors. Or you could even use the methods to transform a business or help develop and optimise the potential of a group, community or institution.

If you’re a qualified clinical psychologist, counsellor or psychotherapist, you’ll find positive psychology theory, research and applications will benefit your clinical work. Teachers, youth workers and educators also use positive psychology expertise in their work. You’re also in the perfect position to continue your academic career and move up to our Psychology PhD.

Modules & Assessment

Optional modules -

‌• Introduction to Positive Psychology (Cambridge or Paris)

‌• Neuroscience of Well-being (Cambridge)

‌• Positive Child Development (Cambridge)

‌• Positive Relationships (Cambridge)

‌• Positive Psychology for Practitioners (Cambridge)

‌• Well-being: Economic, Social and Behavioural Causes (Cambridge)

‌• Positive Performance (Paris)

‌• Positive Psychology Coaching (Paris)

‌• Positive Education (Paris)

‌• Positive Organisations and Appreciative Inquiry (Paris)

‌• Positive Society (Paris)

Core modules -

‌• Research Methods for Psychology (online)

‌• Major Project (online)

Assessment

100% of your assessment will be through coursework. This could include essays, blogs, a reflective portfolio, self-reflective log, handouts, video presentation, mind maps, reports, a research proposal and a major project. You'll also get the chance to carry out an applied project in either a personal or professional setting, to give you experience of how positive psychology can be implemented in practice.

- Module notes

You’ll choose four modules from the list of 12 available across Cambridge and Paris, including one research module (quantitative or qualitative). You'll also complete a major project.

Where you'll study

Paris - You'll study at Centre d’Études Diplomatiques et Stratégiques (CEDS), near the Eiffel Tower.

http://www.heip.fr/?ceds=true

Cambridge - Our campus is close to the centre of Cambridge, often described as the perfect student city.

http://www.anglia.ac.uk/student-life/life-on-campus/cambridge-campus

Funding

The following postgraduate funding may be available to study the Applied Positive Psychology MSc at Anglia Ruskin University.

UK postgraduate loans:

• English Postgraduate Loans – Offering up to £10,280 for eligible UK or EU students ordinarily resident in England, or EU students moving to England to study.
• Welsh Postgraduate Loans – Offering up to £10,280 for eligible UK or EU students ordinarily resident in Wales.
• Scottish Postgraduate Loans – Offering up to £10,000 for eligible UK or EU students ordinarily resident in Scotland.
• Northern Irish Postgraduate Loans – Offering up to £5,500 for eligible UK or EU students ordinarily resident in Northern Ireland.

Erasmus funding:

• Erasmus Masters Loans – Offering up to €18,000 for eligible students to study a Masters abroad.

Funding from FindAMasters:

• FindAMasters Scholarships – Offering up to £5,000 to new UK, EU and international postgraduates.

Fees

Full Time (UK / EU): £10,200

Part Time (UK / EU): £4,600

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Master's specialisation in Philosophy of Religion (Research)

In the Research Master's specialisation in Philosophy of Religion you will focus on the philosophical reflection on religion in Western thought and contemporary society, as well as exploring the relation between philosophy and religion in Western and other cultural contexts.

Information for students of the Research Master

What is the relation between philosophy and religion in Western culture and in other cultural contexts? How does modern and contemporary philosophy reflect on religion? What is meant by a philosophical critique of religion? Which theories of religion have been developed? What is religious experience? The specialisation in Philosophy of Religion explores both classical questions concerning religion, such as the problem of evil, the conceptualization of faith and religious practices, and the issues of religious pluralism and (in)tolerance.

Furthermore, it focuses on contemporary philosophical reflections on religion in a (post)secular society and in a global age. In this specialisation you will study the relation between philosophy and religion in non-Western contexts – for example in the Eastern (Indian) tradition, in the African context or in an Islamic context. The specialisation thus offers a combination of a focus on a Western philosophical body of thought and a comparative global approach to philosophical reflections on religion. You will gain insight in past and present philosophical thought on a conflict-ridden phenomenon.

Key authors include Agamben, Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Weber, Freud, De Certeau, Foucault, Gauchet, Said and Taylor.

http://www.ru.nl/english/education/masters/philosophy-of-religion-research/

Career prospects

Philosophy has a unique role within contemporary society. Unlike other academic disciplines, its subject matter is not limited to one set of questions, or one domain of investigation. Philosophers delve into all aspects of science and society. In order to do this, they must possess two essential skills, namely the ability to analyse complex issues logically and conceptually and the ability to document their conclusions in clear and persuasive language. Such skills are not innate. They require intensive training. The Research Master's programme in Philosophy constitutes the first professional step towards the acquisition of these skills.

Job positions

This programme has been designed for people with the ambition to do research. Graduates tend to fall into three groups. A majority of the students continue their research within academia by applying for a doctoral programme in the Netherlands or abroad. We take particular pride in the fact that more than 75 percent of our graduates manage to obtain a PhD position within two years of graduating. A second group goes on to teach philosophy at secondary schools. And a third group enter research-related professions outside of education. Our graduates are also represented in journalism, science policy, and politics.

Our approach to this field

Philosophy has a unique role within contemporary society. Unlike other academic disciplines, its subject matter is not limited to one set of questions, or one domain of investigation. Philosophers delve into all aspects of science and society. In order to do this, they must possess two essential skills, namely the ability to analyse complex issues logically and conceptually and the ability to document their conclusions in clear and persuasive language. Such skills are not innate. They require intensive training. The Research Master's programme in Philosophy constitutes the first professional step towards the acquisition of these skills.

Our research in this field

What makes this programme special?

This is the only research master in philosophy in the Netherlands that offers a specialisation in philosophy of religion.

The English-taught Research Master's programme in Philosophy is a two-year course that is meant for students of proven ability who wish to prepare for an academic career in philosophy. We offer the following to provide you with the best possible academic background:

- A combination of internationally acclaimed research and excellent teaching

- Research seminars in the history of philosophy, continental philosophy and analytic philosophy

- A broad range of specialisations in Philosophical Anthropology, Metaphysics, Philosophy of mind, Philosophy of language and Logic, Philosophical Ethics, Social and Political Philosophy and the History of Philosophy

- An emphasis on the training of research skills

- A personal supervisor who guides you throughout the programme

- An excellent preparation for post-graduate life by means of the specialised character of the Research Master's thesis, which is composed of a publishable article and of a PhD research proposal

- A high chance of obtaining a PhD position in the Netherlands or abroad

- An international climate.

http://www.ru.nl/english/education/masters/philosophy-of-religion-research/

Radboud University Master's Open Day 10 March 2018

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This course is designed for composers aspiring to work in the media industry and wanting to learn more about techniques for composing and producing music for film and TV. Taught by experienced professional film/TV composers, it provides an opportunity to collaborate with filmmakers and animators, as well as the chance to write for ensembles.

Key features

• The curriculum is enriched by a broad view of musical styles and genres, exploiting the diversity of a repertoire that encompasses Western classical music, popular and world musics.
• The wide selection of option modules allows you to tailor the course to your interests. The major project also enables you to compose an extensive piece of music to picture and work with filmmakers, enhancing your research and project development skills.
• There is a wide range of music groups at Kingston University, ranging from a chamber choir to Javanese gamelan, and you will have the chance to write for a range of ensembles, including the professional ensemble in residence.
• There are many possibilities for collaboration with filmmaking and animation students.

What will you study?

You will compose music for moving image and work with filmmakers, screen designers and animators. You will analyse film and TV scores, exploring how music is used to create atmosphere, convey mood and depict setting, character and action. In addition, you will explore the relationships between composer and producer, directors and music editors. You will also study and practise the use of main themes, underscoring and the harmonic languages of soundtracks. There will be an opportunity to have your compositions performed by a professional ensemble, conducted to picture in a professional recording environment. You will also learn about the technology used to produce high-quality soundtracks for the music industry, as well as business and copyright issues.

Assessment

Compositions, soundtracks, essays, presentations, research projects, and dissertation.

Course structure

Please note that this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.

Core modules

• Major Project
• Professional and Live Aspects of Composing for Film and Television
• Researching Music
• Techniques and Technology for Composing for Film and Television

Optional modules

• Composing and Marketing Popular Music
• Constructing Music Education in the UK
• Critical Reflection on Musical Performance
• International Music Education: Psychology, Culture and Philosophy
• Special Study: Arranging and Scoring
• Advanced Production of Popular Music
• Current Debates in Music Education
• Jazz Studies
• Live Performance Technologies
• Performance Studies
• The Psychology of Music
• The Studio Musician

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The shifting balance between the state and the economy has given rise to new challenges at the intersections of law, business and government. Addressing these issues calls for professionals who understand their complexity and have the necessary legal skills and management capacities. The Master’s Programme in International Law (MIL) combines a specialist legal education with essential aspects of business and politics. We prepare our graduates for a wide range of careers in the corporate world, in government, diplomacy, international organisations, compliance and regulatory affairs and other public and private sector institutions.

Curriculum: structure and contents

The MIL offers students enormous latitude and flexibility in choosing courses from the programme’s rich and diverse curriculum to put together a degree course that meets their professional objectives and personal preferences. A distinctive feature of the MIL curriculum is the carefully arranged combination of compulsory courses and electives. Three compulsory courses ensure that students will acquire a sound general understanding of the normative and analytical Framework of international law. At the same time, a wide range of electives enables them to specialise in selected topics and, if they so wish, to complement their legal education with courses from related areas such as management studies or political science.

Compulsory courses
The three compulsory courses are foundational in character. They provide students with the knowledge, the analytical tools and the practical skills required for a general grasp of the theory and practice of international law. The compulsory courses are the basis upon which students can build when they attend more specialised legal classes in subsequent semesters.

Core electives
Core electives are courses designed to deepen students’ understanding of specific international law topics. Courses are organised in clusters, each concentrating on a particular subject area. Some courses seek to familiarise participants with the practical approaches to problem-solving at the intersections of law, business and politics. Others encourage theoretical reflection on basic legal issues or help to develop students’ professional skills. Students choose courses according to their own individual interests.

Legal electives
Legal electives enhance students’ legal expertise and allow them to specialise while granting great freedom of choice. Students may attend various courses from the MLaw and MLE. In addition, they are invited to participate in a variety of practice workshops, especially Moots, in which the Law School regularly takes part. They also benefit from special courses offered by visiting professors.

Independent electives
Independent electives present a wide range of options. Students choose courses according to their own preferences. They may wish to attend further core electives, legal electives, or courses offered throughout the other Master’s programmes, or they can opt for additional courses offered by the Law School.

Master’s thesis
The Master’s thesis allows students to concentrate on a research question in a specialised subject area of their own choice. Students develop their topic in consultation with their supervisor. While the subject may stem from the core studies or from a contextual discipline, it must focus on a research topic broadly related to international law. The thesis must normally be written in English.

Contextual Studies
The University of St. Gallen considers it essential that its graduates should be able to look beyond their academic specialisation and adopt a more comprehensive perspective that enables them to place contemporary issues in their wider cultural, social and historical settings. Contextual Studies complement the MIL’s core studies. Students can choose from a rich variety of options.

Exchange and double degrees

• CEMS Master’s in International Management (MIM)
• Exchange programmes with approx. 200 partner universities worldwide
• Double degree programme in preparation

Career perspectives

The MIL curriculum combines a specialised legal education with interdisciplinary training, an international perspective and an emphasis on practical problem-solving. With its innovative curriculum, the MIL opens the door to a wide array of attractive positions, preparing graduates for professional careers in multinational corporations, government, diplomacy, international organisations, compliance and regulatory affairs, business consulting, law firms, NGOs, as well as other public and private institutions. Given its strategic focus on international law and the interdependencies with global business and government, the MIL differs from standard legal programmes that focus on domestic law and are intended for students who, after their Bar exams, will go on to work as legal practitioners, particularly as attorneys or law clerks, in their national jurisdictions. Some law graduates, after completing their MLaw or MLE, might think about pursuing an international corporate or public-sector career in order to practise law in a global context. They may find that the MIL is just the academic programme they are looking for as it can make an essential contribution to fulfilling their international aspirations. Subject to the grades achieved, the MIL degree will also enable students to start a promising academic career as it provides access to Ph.D. programmes.

Language

The programme is taught in English.

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