Education (MSc)

The Education (MSc) programme enables students to explore key challenges in education and gain insights into educational practices, policies, and organisations from across the world.

Why Study This Course

Our Education (MSc) programme gives students exposure to a broad range of perspectives to develop unique insights into education. Students will study the latest developments from a variety of disciplines in ways that will transform how they understand educational challenges and solutions.

• Global perspectives: Examine contemporary education practices and contexts from national and international perspectives.
• Wider debates around education: Study education inside and outside classroom settings, laying the foundation for a wide variety of careers.
• Interdisciplinary study: Develop critical analysis, intercultural communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, and critical understanding of evidence-based approaches to education policy and practice.
• Independent research: Dissertation includes a small-scale independent piece of research on a topic of interest.

Admissions Criteria

To be considered for an offer for this programme, students must meet all of the entry requirements.

• A copy of degree certificate and transcripts showing a 2:2 honours degree in a relevant subject area.
• A copy of IELTS certificate with an overall score of 6.5 with 6.5 in writing and 6.0 in all other subskills.
• If the degree is not in a relevant area, the application may be considered on the basis of at least 3 years full-time equivalent relevant professional experience.

Course Structure

This is a one-year full-time programme. Students will study a total of 180 credits - 120 credits of core and optional modules and a 60 credit dissertation.

• Taught modules: Five compulsory 20-credit modules and one 20-credit optional module.
• Dissertation: A 60 credit dissertation on an education-related topic of interest.

Core Modules

The core modules include:

• Research Design For Masters Students (20 credits)
• Comparative approaches to understanding curriculum (20 credits)
• Psychology and Planning for Teaching and Learning (20 credits)
• Teaching and Learning in the 21st Century (20 credits)
• Academic Practice and key concepts in Educational Research (20 credits)
• Global Futures in Education (20 credits)
• Dissertation (60 credits)

Learning and Assessment

Students will learn from scholars who are contributing to the future of their fields. Teaching methods include a mixture of lectures, seminars, independent study, and self-directed learning.

• How will I be taught: Lectures, seminars, independent study, and self-directed learning.
• How will I be assessed: Typical assessment formats include individual assignments, coursework, projects, presentations, or class tests.
• What skills will I practise and develop: Knowledge and understanding, intellectual skills, professional practical skills, and transferable/key skills.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for 2026 entry:

• Home status: £11,450 (Year one), with no deposit required.
• Overseas status: £25,950 (Year one), with a £2,500 deposit.

Funding

Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria.

• Master's Scholarships: An award open to UK students intending to study one of our taught master's degrees.
• Postgraduate loans: If starting the master's degree in September 2026 or later, students may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan.
• Alumni Discount: The alumni discount is available for Cardiff University graduates who are planning to start an eligible master's in 2026/27.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this programme may work in education-related areas within formal or non-formal education organisations, in government departments and regulators, in non-governmental organisations, including foundations and think-tanks, in charities, the media, or as social entrepreneurs in the area of education.

Additional Costs

Students should be prepared to invest in some key textbooks and to cover the costs of basic printing and photocopying. Access to a laptop computer would be advantageous as many readings are available electronically and most assessments are prepared using standard word processing software.

Cardiff University

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Overview:

Cardiff University is a leading research-intensive university located in the heart of Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. It is known for its strong academic reputation, diverse range of programs, and commitment to community engagement.

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Services Offered:

Study:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and international programs across various subject areas. They also provide support services for students, including funding, tuition fee information, and career guidance.

Research:

The university is renowned for its research excellence, with a focus on tackling major challenges facing society, the economy, and the environment. They offer various research facilities and support for researchers.

Work with us:

Cardiff University collaborates with businesses and organizations to provide consultancy services, funded opportunities, and workforce development programs.

Community:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering various projects, resources, and events to support learning, promote Welsh language and culture, and contribute to the green recovery.

Global:

Cardiff University has strong global partnerships with universities and organizations worldwide, fostering international research collaborations and student exchange programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Living in Cardiff:

Cardiff is a vibrant city with a thriving student population, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences, entertainment options, and social activities.

Welsh Language and Culture:

Students have opportunities to learn Welsh and experience the rich Welsh language culture, which is prevalent in Cardiff.

Campus Facilities:

The university provides excellent campus facilities, including libraries, sports facilities, and conference spaces.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Campus Facilities:

Cardiff University offers modern and well-equipped facilities to support student learning and research.

Excellent Career Prospects:

The university has a strong track record of producing graduates who are highly sought after by employers.

Vibrant Student Life:

Cardiff is a lively city with a thriving student community, offering a diverse range of social and cultural experiences.

Research Excellence:

Cardiff University is renowned for its research excellence, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Community Engagement:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering students opportunities to contribute to social and environmental initiatives.

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Academic Programs:

Undergraduate:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various subject areas, including Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Science, Engineering, and Medicine.

Postgraduate:

The university provides a diverse range of postgraduate programs, including taught courses and research degrees.

International:

Cardiff University welcomes international students and offers specific programs and support services tailored to their needs.

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Other:

Rankings:

Cardiff University consistently ranks highly in national and international rankings, reflecting its academic excellence.

Quality Marks:

The university holds various quality marks, including the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) diamond logo, demonstrating its commitment to quality assurance.

Russell Group:

Cardiff University is a member of the Russell Group, a prestigious group of 24 leading research-intensive universities in the UK.