Program Overview

MA Education

Why study this course

Learn from a team of education specialists with expertise in a wide range of disciplines.

Study your way with our three flexible study modes that fit your lifestyle.

Develop a deeper understanding of education to enhance own practice and career prospects.

Course summary

Our MA Education offers a flexible programme suitable for both early career educators and experienced practitioners. Available in three study modes—full-time (1 year), part-time blended (2 years), and part-time online (2 years)—this master's degree allows you to examine educational issues that matter to you professionally. You'll build advanced knowledge to develop your expertise and enhance your practice through academic study combined with practical application. By completing this programme, you'll gain a critical understanding of educational theory and practice, strengthen your skills in your chosen areas, and boost your career prospects. The programme is designed to meet the needs of educators from various sectors including primary, secondary, further and higher education, private providers, and non-profit organisations.

Key facts

• Award: MA
• Duration: 1 or 2 years
• Mode of study: Full time, Part time
• Start date: September 2025
• Award: Bishop Grosseteste University
• Institution code: B38

About this course

This master's programme supports your professional growth by letting you explore educational topics relevant to your career. The curriculum blends academic theory with practical application, enabling you to apply what you learn directly to your context of interest.

Full-time students will complete five modules over one year: two modules in your first trimester focusing on educational vision, practice, policy, and reflective practice; two modules in your second trimester covering educational leadership and research skills; and a final research project in your third trimester.

Part-time blended students study over two years, combining three on-campus MA Weekends each year (held in October, February, and June, typically on a Friday evening and Saturday) with online learning.

In your first year you will take one module per trimester starting with a core module on vision, practice and policy, followed by two optional modules tailored to your interests. In Year 2, you will begin with a core module on research skills, then carry out your own research project across Trimesters 2 and 3.

Part-time online students study over two years, with 100% online delivery designed to offer maximum flexibility. The learning is largely asynchronous, allowing you to study at times that suit your schedule. This study mode is ideal for practitioners in full-time employment, including those who are working outside of the UK.

In your first year you will take one module per trimester starting with a core module on vision, practice and policy, followed by two optional modules tailored to your interests. In Year 2, you will begin with a core module on research skills, then carry out your own research project across Trimesters 2 and 3.

Entry requirements

Entry to the MA Education programmes typically requires a second-class degree (2:2 or above) in a relevant subject.

We assess each application individually, recognising that academic potential can be demonstrated through various professional and educational backgrounds. We value diverse professional backgrounds and recognise that valuable skills can be developed through various pathways.

For international applicants, English language requirements are IELTS 6.5 with a minimum of 6 in each component.

Full-time students are not required to undertake work-related learning. Part-time blended and part-time online students are expected to hold a professional role (paid or voluntary) within an educational setting for the duration of the course, typically 5 hours a week.

Assessment

All delivery modes use similar assessment approaches, offering varied ways to demonstrate your skills, knowledge and understanding. Each assignment typically contains at least two related tasks, allowing you to meet learning outcomes while developing various academic skills. The different types of assessment include:

• Portfolios
• Presentations with Q&A sessions
• Research method evaluations
• Dissertations based on independent research projects

You will receive formative feedback during each module via tutorials, which will guide your development and allow you to refine your work before final submission.

Assessment deadlines are timed to coincide with academic holiday periods (January/May/August), making the workload more manageable for those with personal and professional commitments.

Careers & Further study

Completing the MA Education will strengthen your ability to advance within educational settings. The programme builds knowledge and confidence in key areas of educational interest while opening doors to new opportunities. Employers value staff who have undertaken master's-level study, particularly in areas reflecting current priorities in education such as reflective practice, digital innovation, learner support, and leadership.

Throughout the course, you'll develop transferable skills including critical analysis, research competence, and advanced communication—all valuable across various professional settings. The programme's emphasis on applying research to practice ensures that your learning directly benefits your workplace.

This MA also provides an excellent foundation for those wishing to pursue further academic qualifications, such as the EdD (Doctor of Education) or PhD programmes.

Support

Studying at BGU is a student-centred experience. Whether you are on campus or studying online, you will be part of a friendly and supportive community where meaningful connections matter. You will get to know staff personally and feel confident reaching out for help and advice. No matter how you study, you will benefit from regular interaction with staff who recognise and value you as an individual with unique talents and interests.

We will be there to support you, personally and academically, from induction to graduation.

At BGU we have so much support available for our students, the type of support that has won us awards recently in the What Uni Student Choice Awards 2023, such as the Chaplaincy team, the Student Advice team, The Hub and representatives at the Students’ Union.

Fees & Funding

A lot of student finance information is available from numerous sources, but it is sometimes confusing and contradictory. That’s why at BGU we try to give you all the information and support we can to help you throughout the process. Our Student Advice team are experts in helping you sort out the funding arrangements for your studies, offering a range of services to guide you through all aspects of student finance step by step.

Click here to find information about fees, loans and support which will help to make the whole process a little easier to understand.