Program Overview

Introduction to the MA Character Education Program

The University of Birmingham offers a unique Master of Arts in Character Education, a distance-learning program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive positive change in education, leadership, and beyond. This program is the first of its kind, focusing on the profound impact of character and virtues on individuals and society.

Program Overview

The MA Character Education course is a 3-year part-time, online program that helps students develop their knowledge and expertise in the field of character education. Students learn from leading scholars at the world-leading Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues, gaining insights into character, wellbeing, and human flourishing.

Key Features

• Flexible learning: study at your own pace alongside existing commitments
• Personalised support: receive guidance from an Academic Tutor for each module, plus a dedicated Personal Tutor throughout the MA
• Expertise: learn from leading specialists at The Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues
• Interdisciplinary approach: draw insights from education, philosophy, psychology, sociology, social sciences, and theology
• Diverse and collaborative: engage with students from across multiple professions and work alongside peers from around the world

Course Structure

The program comprises 180 credits taught over 3 years, including a 60-credit dissertation project. There is also the option to be awarded the PGCert (60 credits taught over 12 months) or the PGDip (120 credits taught material over 24 months).

Module Information

In Year 1, students must take the following modules:

• Character Education Interventions in Schools and Organisations (30 credits)
• Theoretical and Historical Foundations of Character Education (30 credits)

In Year 2, the following modules must be taken:

• Character Education Leadership in Schools and Organisations (30 credits)
• The Virtuous Practitioner (30 credits)

In Year 3, the following modules must be taken:

• Dissertation (MA) (30 credits)
• Research Methods in Character Education (30 credits)

Entry Requirements

To gain a place at Birmingham, students will need to meet the general entry requirements, as well as those specific to the course. Typically, successful applicants will hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level or above and have some relevant and related experience in the field of education.

English Language Requirements

International students will need to demonstrate a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification. The required score is IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band.

Fees and Scholarships

The part-time fee per year of study is £3,750. The University of Birmingham offers a range of scholarships, including the Birmingham Masters Scholarships, which award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Application Process

To apply for the program, students will need to submit their application and supporting documents online. The application deadline for UK and non-visa requiring applicants is 28 August 2026.

Career Opportunities

The MA in Character Education equips students with the knowledge and skills to drive meaningful change across a wide range of sectors, including education, policy, leadership, and community development. The program empowers students to apply their learning in real-world contexts, shaping cultures and influencing practices that support character development and human flourishing. ```python