Program Overview

Introduction to the MA Education Program

The MA Education program at Birmingham City University is designed for teachers, lecturers, trainers, and individuals interested in the field of education. This program aims to boost professional qualifications and knowledge, providing a comprehensive understanding of education and its practices.

Program Overview

The MA Education program is highly flexible, offered full-time on-campus or part-time online, allowing students to balance their studies with their job. The program covers key issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in education and is rooted in theoretical knowledge that supports educational practice.

What's Covered in This Course?

The program includes specialist modules such as Leadership and Management, Special Educational Needs, and Critical Digital Pedagogies. Students can choose modules relevant to their situation, and the course is designed to allow students to use their experience of working in education to inform their research.

Qualifications Available

The qualifications available through this program include:

• Education
• Education (International Education)
• Education (Special Needs Education)
• Conductive Education (in collaboration with the National Institute for Conductive Education)

Why Choose This Program?

This recognized qualification helps meet Continuing Professional Development requirements, such as senior/executive leadership in schools. It does not lead to qualified teacher status but allows students to develop professional knowledge, skills, and understanding in their practice.

Similar Courses

Similar courses offered by the university include:

• Education (International Education) - MA
• Education (Early Years) - MA

Entry Requirements

Essential Requirements

Applicants should have a degree or equivalent qualification, or professional experience that equates to degree level. They must also have English Language and Mathematics GCSEs at grade C/4 or above.

Fees and How to Apply

UK Students

• Annual and modular tuition fees are applicable to the first year of study.
• The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study.
• Full-time: 1 year, £9,510 in 2026/27
• Part-time: 2-4 years, £1,057 per 20 credit module

International Students

Sorry, this course is not available to International students.

Included in Course Fees

• Access to computer equipment
• Printing: £5 print credit in each year of the course
• Field trips: All essential field trips and associated travel costs
• Access to Microsoft Office 365
• Key software: SPSS and Nvivo
• Key subscriptions: Subscriptions to key journals and websites through the library

Not Included in Course Fees

• Excess printing
• Personal stationery and study materials
• Accommodation and living costs

Application Deadlines

We advise applying early to allow sufficient time for preparation. The application deadline is Friday, 17 July, but late applications will be accepted where places are still available.

Personal Statement

A personal statement is required as part of the application, highlighting passion for postgraduate study, personal skills, experience, academic success, and any other factors supporting the application.

Postgraduate Funding

• Graduate Scholarship: A 20% fee reduction for BCU graduates enrolling onto an eligible Master's programme.
• Master's loans: Government-backed loans of up to £12,471 for UK, Irish, and eligible EU nationals.
• Other funding opportunities: Scholarships, loans, and bursaries offered by external organisations.

Course in Depth

Core Modules

• Introduction To Master's-Level Study (20 credits)
• Researching Education (Proposal) (40 credits)
• Dissertation (60 credits)

Optional Modules

Students must complete at least 60 credits from the following list:

• Critical Issues in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Inclusive Policy and Practice (20 credits)
• Critical Digital Pedagogies (20 credits)
• Rethinking Curriculum (20 credits)
• Evaluating Policy and Practice (20 credits)
• Rethinking Assessment (20 credits)
• Leadership and Management (20 credits)
• Reflecting on Professional Practice (20 credits)
• APEL - 20 credits (20 credits)
• APEL - 40 credits (40 credits)
• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND): Policy and Practice (20 credits)
• International and Comparative Education (20 credits)

Employability

This course provides a foundation for a career in various educational settings and enhances employability skills, including scholarly studies, research skills, and practice. It prepares students to become creative, confident, and forward-looking individuals with the skills of research, reflection, and critical evaluation.

Facilities and Staff

The course is primarily based at the City Centre Campus, in the Benjamin Zephaniah Building. The university boasts excellent facilities, including primary and secondary science labs, an innovation and Lego teaching room, and flexible spaces for Design and Technology and art.

The staff includes experienced educators and researchers, such as Dr. Tina Collins and Dr. Louise Lambert, who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the program.