Education Studies - BA (Hons)

The BA (Hons) in Education Studies is an interdisciplinary course that explores educational systems, policies, and practices, as well as the social, psychological, and cultural factors influencing education. This innovative course prepares students for a range of education-related professional careers.

Course Overview

• Duration: 3 or 4 years full-time
• Start Date: September 2026
• Location: On campus
• Study Abroad: Yes
• School: School of Arts, Social Sciences and Management
• Division: Psychology, Sociology and Education
• Subject Area: Education at QMU
• Fees & Funding: Fees and Charges
• UCAS Code: 4321
• SCQF Level: 10

Course Structure

The course is available for direct entry into Year Three in 2026. Students can opt to study for an honours degree over four years or an ordinary degree over three years.

Teaching, Learning, and Assessment

Students will learn through lectures, seminars, workshops, enquiry-based learning, student-led activity, independent study, online group tutorials, and community placements. Assessment methods are varied, including essays, reports, presentations, blogs, and audiovisual submissions.

Placements

Placements are essential to student development and provide hands-on, real-world experience in Year Four. Community-based placements are secured by students according to their interests, with QMU supporting the process as needed.

Exchange Opportunities

Studying abroad through QMU's exchange programme can be one of the most exciting and rewarding challenges for a student to experience. The opportunity to travel and live in another country, learn different customs and traditions, meet new people, and future career draws many students into the exchange programme.

What Will I Learn in Each Year?

Year Three:

Students will explore and compare learning in local and international contexts, develop skills in research design and methods, and fine-tune transferable skills such as working collaboratively, presenting information effectively, organisation, and time management.

Year Four:

Students will bring together their learning about societal and organisational structures and purposes of educational systems, and the possible implications for learners and the learning process. They will use a range of evidence to formulate appropriate and justified ways forward and potential changes in practice.

Modules

Year Three:

• Inclusive Practice: Difference & Diversity
• Research Methods
• Global Health and International Education
• Community Education & the Organic Intellectual
• Class, Poverty & Social Exclusion
• Social Psychology and Social Justice OR Developmental Psychology

Year Four:

• Peer Relations in Childhood & Adolescence
• Planning Places for Outdoor Learning
• Inequality, Poverty, and Social Policy in Comparative Perspective
• Community-based Education (Includes a self-organised 4-week placement)
• Dissertation

Career Opportunities

This course prepares students for a wide range of educational careers, including community learning and development, outdoor learning, museums, education administration, curriculum development, educational technology, international aid settings, policy work, and more.

Entry Requirements and Application Information

Direct Entry:

Year Three: A very small number of places are available for second-year entry into this course. Requirements are HND in Childhood Practice (120 credits) with CB in the graded unit.

Other Requirements

A satisfactory criminal records check from the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme is required.

Other Costs

There may be costs associated with placement, depending on where the student chooses to complete it. The cost of the PVG check is ｣18 or ｣59 (depending on the level of clearance required) and is the responsibility of the student.

Disability/Health Conditions

If a student has a disability, long-term physical or mental health condition, or learning disability, it should not stand in the way of studying at QMU. However, if the student is unsure whether their disability might be a barrier in their studies or in relation to the professional standards, they should contact the disability service.

Terms and Conditions

The delivery of this course is subject to the terms and conditions set out in QMU's 2026/27 Entry Terms and Conditions (Undergraduate).

Awarding Body

QMU is the awarding body for this course.

Queen Margaret University

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Overview:

Queen Margaret University (QMU) is a public university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is known for its person-centered and career-focused approach to education and teaching, with a commitment to shaping a better world. QMU boasts widely recognized expertise in various fields, including business, creative industries, education, health and rehabilitation, and social sciences.

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Services Offered:

QMU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Learning Facilities:

Library, IT services, remote access, Canvas, QMU Portal, ePortfolio

Student Support:

Careers and Employability, Students' Union, QMU Sports Centre, Clinics, Accommodation, Finance Office

Campus Life:

Eat and Drink on Campus, QMU Online Shop, Blogs, Ask a Student a Question

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

QMU provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can expect:

Community Feel:

An airy and bright campus with a strong sense of community.

Student Services:

Ready access to student services, food outlets, accommodation, sports facilities, and social spaces.

Beautiful Grounds:

A beautiful campus with plenty of outdoor spaces for relaxation and socializing.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Person-Centered Approach:

QMU focuses on individual student needs and career development.

Career-Focused Education:

The university emphasizes practical skills and real-world experience.

Renowned Expertise:

QMU has a strong reputation for research and innovation in various fields.

Supportive Campus Environment:

Students are provided with a welcoming and supportive community.

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Academic Programs:

QMU offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Study:

Various undergraduate degrees across different disciplines.

Postgraduate Study:

Master's degrees and postgraduate research opportunities.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD):

Short courses and online programs for professional development.

Online Learning:

100% online master's courses for flexible learning.

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Other:

• QMU is committed to social justice and nurturing individuals while promoting collective support.
• The university actively engages with the community through outreach programs and events.
• QMU has a strong international presence with a diverse student body and partnerships with institutions worldwide.
• The university is undergoing a transformation of its teaching and learning spaces to enhance the student experience.