Education (Online) (Taught)

On this master’s in education, you'll take a research-first approach to understand and apply educational research.

You’ll critically examine the relationship between educational research and educational practice in a range of learning contexts, working in a department ranked 5th in the UK (Complete University Guide, 2026).

Our MSc Education programme supports students to pursue a senior role in education or enhance their current teaching practice.

You’ll have the opportunity to examine critically the nature of education, learning, teaching, and educational practice in the context of policy through different perspectives such as: global, national, regional, organisational, institutional, and through to the individual classroom.

This is a more generic programme but students can also choose between two dedicated pathways leading to the award of ‘MSc Education Management and Leadership’ or ‘MSc Education Practice and Innovation’, depending on module selection.

Key Features of this course

• study and assess the relationship between learning theory and practice in educational and training settings

• engage with current debates in educational research

• explore topics around educational research methodology and develop methods and techniques of data collection, analysis, and interpretation

• consider the nature and influence of evidence and its scope to support effective education

Student Support

You’ll join a close-knit and diverse learning community, we offer an exceptional academic experience, with small-group teaching that allows you to explore topics in depth and plenty of support to ensure you achieve your potential.

You must study the following modules: Collecting & Analysing Data in Education, Dissertation, Effective Teaching & Learning, Innovating Practice in Education, Leading & Managing in Education and, Making Sense of Education Research. You must also choose from the following modules: Education Flex Assignment 1, Globalisation and Education Policy, Inclusive Practices in Education, Mentoring and Staff Development or, The Social context of education and lifelong learning.

Modules will normally be assessed by one or two assignments totalling the equivalent of 4000 words.   Assessment methods may include: Essays (including literature reviews, annotated bibliographies, and critical narrative-type essays); Case studies (of individual practice, organisation level practices or national level policy/practice); Presentations (delivered orally or electronically); Posters (including contemporary versions such as e-newsletters and blogs); Digitally authored materials (including audio or video podcast or animated videos)