Education MA

The MA Education programme is aimed at educators and education professionals who want to gain additional knowledge and skills to help improve their practice through a general, rather than specialised, programme of master's level study. It draws upon the expertise across the School of Education giving candidates access to the knowledge and experience of leading researchers across a diverse range of topics. Thus, you will be in a great position to pursue your interests and focus on the topics that suit your career ambitions.

MA Education is unique in the School of Education insofar as there are no modules dedicated to, or associated with, the programme; instead, you select modules that interest you from the other specialised MA programmes offered. These may be modules that explore different aspects of educational leadership, the use of technology to support learning, child development, or teaching English to speakers of other languages among others.

With your own experience of working in an education context, the teaching sessions and our excellent library resources you will soon build your knowledge of educational research methods and apply them to your own dissertation on a related topic. You will also improve your skills in written and oral communication, research and analysis, and leadership: all vital qualities for a career in any sector of education.

This flexible programme may also be studied part-time, but it is important to emphasise that we offer no special provision for part-time students. Teaching sessions and meetings generally occur during the working day so, if you are considering applying for part-time status, you must ensure that you are able to attend at these times.

Course content

You’ll take a core module that explores the principles and methods of educational research, and introduces you to issues such as research ethics and the use of research to improve educational practice for individuals and organisations. You’ll also study two of three additional modules on research methods to expand and sharpen your skills.

You’ll apply your new understanding of the concepts and benefits of educational research to your own dissertation, in preparation for which you'll consult regularly with your appointed supervisor as you independently research an educational topic that may or may not be related to your own practice. We can only accept you onto the programme if, at the application stage, you propose a dissertation on a topic or issue that matches the available supervisory expertise within the School of Education.

Course structure

There are two compulsory modules on this programme. You have to study and pass at least two of the three optional research methods modules, and you’ll normally take two or three from the full range of other optional modules available. Some modules are only available in alternate years. You must select modules that represent a general and balanced programme of study, rather than a specialised one. You will not be permitted to follow modules from one MA programme only, or to focus on one narrow subject or topic, since this will result in a specialised course of study rather than the general one that the MA Education is intended to provide.

Compulsory modules

• Getting Started: Research Questions and Approaches in Education 15 credits
• Dissertation 60 credits

Optional modules

• Global Learning in UK Primary Schools 30 credits
• Critical Perspectives on Leadership Theory and Practice 30 credits
• Philosophical underpinning of educational research 15 credits
• Digital Learning in Practice 30 credits
• Special Educational Needs: Inclusive Approaches 30 credits
• Developmental Disorders I: Dyslexia and Developmental Coordination Disorder 30 credits
• Theorizing Childhood and Youth 30 credits
• Children and young people: citizenship, participation and social justice 30 credits
• Grammar, Learning and Teaching 15 credits
• Teacher Education for TESOL 15 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Education MA in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

We use a variety of teaching and learning methods including weekly seminars, group learning, tutorials, fieldwork, online learning and lectures. The methods of teaching and learning that you will encounter depend on which specific modules you choose. Independent study is also vital, as it allows you to pursue your interests and develop high-level skills.

Assessment

Most assessment is by written essay. Occasionally, we use other assessment approaches, such as poster presentations or reflective logs.

Career opportunities

This programme has been designed to meet the needs of candidates who plan to use the knowledge and skills they will gain in a wide range of careers in education and related sectors. You will develop your skills in research and analysis, and the insights gained from your studies will help to inform your professional practice. If you are already established in the field of teaching or a career in education, developing your skills in educational research and analysis can lead to early promotion. Many of our students receive sponsorship and support from their employers or governments as part of their continued professional development. MA Education also provides a pathway, for students who achieve at least a merit, for further study and research at doctoral level, either a PhD or the EdD.

Visit the Education MA page on the University of Leeds website for more details!