Program Overview

Introduction to the MSc Education Program

The MSc Education is a flagship taught postgraduate degree and one of the most popular programs offered by the Moray House School of Education and Sport. This program allows students to apply for a general MSc Education or choose a specialist pathway to enhance their knowledge of a particular area.

Program Structure

Across the program, students consider key educational challenges and possibilities from a variety of theoretical, policy, and practice perspectives. The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, student-led seminars and presentations, skills training, and project work. Students complete compulsory courses and choose from a range of option courses, totaling 120 credits. If a student takes up a specialist pathway, compulsory and option courses will reflect their specialism. The Master's degree culminates in an independently researched dissertation for another 60 credits.

Pathways

The program offers several pathways for students to specialize in areas relevant to their educational and professional goals. These pathways include:

• General pathway: Offers a broad base in the field of education, ideal for working in education policy, research, or practice, or progressing to doctoral study.
• Child and Adolescent Psychology: Takes a psychological perspective towards understanding development from infancy to adolescence within a broad understanding of educational theory and policy.
• Early Childhood Practice and Froebel: For those interested in early childhood education, providing an advanced, critical understanding of Froebelian principles and other contemporary early years pedagogies.
• Philosophy of Education: Explores philosophical issues in education practice, policy, and research from various international contexts, traditions, and perspectives.
• Research pathway: Equips students with essential applied skills in and knowledge of the main traditions and paradigms in educational research.

Teaching and Learning

The program's teaching mirrors the variety of options for delivering education. Compulsory courses consist mainly of lectures and related workshops, while many option courses are seminar-style. Lectures are recorded, allowing students to listen again to deepen their understanding. Assessments are designed to inform teaching and support learning, with a range of tasks assessing academic and professional knowledge and skills.

Support for Studies

Students have access to a range of support services, including being assigned a Student Advisor. The University's Careers Service also supports students in developing their potential and achieving satisfying and rewarding futures.

Careers

This program can open up a wide range of careers within and outside of schools, including teaching, educational policy, administration, research, and community education. Graduates have gone on to diverse roles, and the program is recognized for its ability to prepare students for international recruitment, doctoral research, and other professional pursuits.

Fees and Funding

Annual tuition fees are listed on the Postgraduate Study Programme Fees pages related to the desired pathway, exit level, and duration of study. A deposit payment is required to secure a place on the program. Scholarship opportunities are subject to change each year, and students are encouraged to seek out opportunities from the University and external funding bodies.

Research Areas

The program benefits from the research and teaching expertise of a large team, with staff coming from a variety of disciplinary backgrounds, including developmental psychology, philosophy of education, quantitative and qualitative research in education, physical education, and community education. Research areas include but are not limited to:

• Advanced Quantitative Research in Education
• Children and Young People
• Digital Education
• Language(s), Interculturality, and Literacies
• Social Justice and Inclusion
• Sport-Related Research
• Teacher Education, Curriculum, and Pedagogy

Conclusion

The MSc Education program at the Moray House School of Education and Sport offers a comprehensive and specialized education that prepares students for a wide range of careers in education and related fields. With its variety of pathways, emphasis on research and teaching excellence, and commitment to student support, this program is an ideal choice for those looking to advance their knowledge and skills in education.