MA Education (part-time distance learning 3-5 years)

Content

The optional modules listed are those that are most likely to be available, but they may be subject to change.

At the start of the course, you'll complete an initial 15 credit module, designed to support your professional and academic development. You'll then choose your optional modules, depending on your prior experience, qualifications and current working context. On successful completion, you'll go on to study your final two compulsory modules. Throughout your studies, the course team will offer guidance and support on module choices, timings and pathways.

You will study the following modules over a period of 3-5 years. The precise duration and format of your studies will be determined by negotiation with the Programme Leader:

You will study one of the following optional modules:

• Academic and Professional Journeys (15 credits)
• Beginning a Career (15 credits).

Plus, optional modules (the number depending on credit requirements) from:

• Early Years Leadership (15 credits)
• Education Leadership, Management and Change (30 credits)
• Exploring Professional Practice (30 credits)
• Leading Behaviour and Culture (15 credits)
• Leading Literacy (15 credits)
• Leading Teacher Development (15 credits)
• Leading Teaching (15 credits)
• Policy and Practice (30 credits)
• Teaching for Learning (30 credits).

Plus:

• Independent Study* (10 credits).

*Only for students such as PCAP/PGCAPP graduates needing additional credits.

Plus:

• Researching Education (45 credits)
• Project (60 credits)

The University continually enhances our offer by responding to feedback from our students and other stakeholders, ensuring the curriculum is kept up to date and our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need for the real world. This may result in changes to the course. If changes to your course are approved, we will inform you. 

Learning and Teaching

Your teaching will be delivered using a range of methods, including online lectures, project work, group work and tutorials. Throughout this part-time MA Education course, you'll work remotely using online platforms, allowing you to progress through the materials at a pace chosen by you.

Our student-centred approach enables you to follow your interests by selecting the focus of your work, feeding into the specific context of your professional practice. All course activity will be context-based, involving reflective practices and practical research relevant to your own field of work.

To supplement your learning, you'll complete self-directed study, such as independent reading and assignment preparation, as well as directed tasks, such as examining case studies and reviewing literature. Engage with our supportive virtual learning community and collaborate with your peers using online group forums, discussion boards, conferences and newsletters.

Study time

The MA is a flexible modular course and can be spread over 3-5 years. Taught modules take place on weekday evenings.

Assessment

You'll be assessed using a variety of methods to enhance the inclusivity of the learning experience. These methods include essays, reports, reflective diaries and logs, professional portfolios, oral presentations and dissemination activities. Each assignment will provide evidence of your professional learning and demonstrate the skills you've gained, including academic writing, communication and presentation skills.

You'll also complete a final compulsory assessment in the form of a research project, with built-in formal and informal dissemination to your tutors and peers. After each assignment, you'll receive formative and summative feedback which will encourage you to build a reflective approach towards your practice.

Throughout your learning journey you'll shape your own personal educational ethos, which you'll learn to analyse in relation to your own professional context. Your assignments will critically explore wider contextual factors, such as ethical, political and social implications of educational practice and research, while underpinning this with academic theory.

For more detail see our full glossary of assessment terms.