Education

BSc Education draws on psychology, sociology and critical policy analysis to explore how people learn, how education systems operate, and how global inequalities are created and addressed. The course also examines how government policy shapes teaching, learning and wider life chances.

A key feature of the degree is the option to specialise in one of three pathways. These allow you to focus your studies towards a particular career direction, although choosing a pathway is not compulsory and you are welcome to select optional units that reflect your own interests.

Pathway Options

BSc Education (Primary/Early Years Education)

This pathway is designed for students interested in how young children learn in Early Years and Primary settings. You will:

• develop a global perspective on careers in early childhood education;

• critically evaluate theories of mathematics and literacy learning;

• explore research‑informed approaches to effective teaching and learning.

Your learning is supported by field trips to Early Years settings, giving you hands‑on experience to apply and deepen the skills developed on the course.

BSc Education (International Education)

This pathway focuses on education in an increasingly globally mobile and connected world. You will examine:

• education systems and policies across different countries;

• changing educational purposes, methods and approaches;

• research‑informed practice and the latest developments in international education.

You will gain the knowledge and skills relevant to roles in NGOs, the Civil Service, and leadership or training roles within private‑sector education organisations, developing a strong global understanding of careers in international education.

BSc Education (Special Needs in Education)

The SNiE pathway is for students interested in the psychology of learning and the experiences of children and young people with additional needs. You will:

• develop a global understanding of policy and practice in special educational needs and disability;

• critically review international approaches to inclusion;

• compare how mental health and wellbeing are supported across different educational settings.

This pathway equips you for careers such as Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENDCo) or for progression to training routes such as educational psychology.

Who the course is for

BSc Education is ideally suited for those who wish to:

• progress towards Primary or Early Years teaching (for example, through a PGCE Primary)

• work towards professional psychology routes with an educational focus (such as studying educational psychology);

• pursue education‑based roles involving pastoral work or special educational needs;

• undertake Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) or work with NGOs in community or adult education in the UK or overseas;

• prepare for research careers in the public or private sector.

Learning Through Research

‘Learning through Research’ is a key feature of the course. You will develop transferable skills valued across teaching, civil service, third‑sector organisations, NGOs and educational psychology, including:

• collating and analysing data, information and evidence;

• critically analysing contemporary global issues in education;

• developing strong written and oral communication skills.

In Year 2, you will plan a research project within an appropriate organisation (such as a school), which prepares you for your dissertation in Year 3. Students in Years 2 and 3 also have the opportunity to volunteer and help organise the annual BSc Education conference, attended by all year groups.

https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/2027/12384/bsc-education/

You will be assessed through various methods including:

• essays;

• team projects;

• coursework;

• presentations;

• podcasts;

• reflective portfolios;

• blog posts;

• a major project.