Program Overview

International Education (MSc, PGDip, PGCert) - Online January 2026 entry

Overview

These courses give students the opportunity to integrate and explore theory and practice in the field of International Education.

Entry Requirements

• A 2.1 Honours degree or 3.3 out of 4.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) in any discipline.
• Significant professional or other relevant experience alongside evidence of prior alternative learning such as professional qualifications or certifications.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Some students may be eligible for recognition of prior learning (RPL) based on their previous studies, such as DELTA. IELLI considers applications for RPL on a case-by-case basis in line with the University's recognition of prior learning policy.

English Language Requirements

You will need to be proficient in the English language. Information about English language entry requirements for these programmes is available on the postgraduate English language requirements page.

Application Deadline

Friday 9 January 2026. Applicants should apply as early as possible to be eligible for certain scholarships.

Application Requirements

• CV that includes your personal details with a history of your education and employment (paid or voluntary) to date.
• Personal statement, see personal statement guidance for International Education courses.
• One original signed reference (professional or academic).
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
• Evidence of English language proficiency (required if English is not your first language).

Course Details

International Education programmes are run by the International Education and Lifelong Learning Institute (IELLI).

Highlights

• In addition to the five compulsory modules, choose three optional modules and a dissertation topic to explore your interests.
• Modules are taught by an interdisciplinary team from different parts of the University and by guest speakers to provide input from a range of academic and practical backgrounds.
• Join the IELLI community of practitioners and interact with students from a diverse range of nationalities and backgrounds.

Teaching

• Teaching format: recorded lectures, recorded mini-lectures, online chatrooms, podcasts, guided writing, webinars, intensive feedback sessions on your work.
• Assessment: a variety of different types of written assignments, presentations, development of teaching plans, material development.

Modules

• Compulsory modules:
  • Action Research and Reflection for Education Practitioners
  • Education and Researching
  • Leadership and Management in International Education
  • Organisational Development in International Education
  • Trends and Policies in International Education
• Optional modules:
  • Assessment and Evaluation in Education
  • English Medium Instruction (EMI)
  • Language Teaching Methodology
  • Online Programme Design
  • Technology for Teaching

Dissertation (MSc only)

For the dissertation, you will choose a topic of interest to you and to your future career. You will read related literature and conduct independent research on your topic.

Fees

• MSc: £12,030
• PGDip: £8,020
• PGCert: £4,010
• Single module: £1,100

Your Future

International Education graduates are equipped with a range of skills and experiences which allow them to take on a variety of roles. The majority of International Education students work in managerial and administrative roles in international education organisations, educational agencies, as educational policymakers, as International Officers, and in education-related marketing roles.

Awards

Members of International Education staff and previous students have been awarded various awards and prizes, including the British Association of Lecturers in English for Academic Purposes Masters Dissertation Awards, the Elsevier-Stanford List, the TOEFL New Scholar Award, and the McCall MacBain Foundation Outstanding Contribution to Teaching Excellence Awards.