Taught course

Education

Institution
Durham University · School of Education
Qualifications
MA

Entry requirements

An honours degree at 2:1 (or equivalent). Significant relevant experience will also be considered

Months of entry

September

Course content

The MA in Education is designed to meet the needs of professionals working at all levels of education, particularly those in teaching, management and administration, and those with an interest in education practice and policy. As a research-led course, the MA draws on the innovative and high-quality knowledge and expertise available in Durham’s School of Education, one of the leading providers of education studies in the UK.

A range of core and optional modules in topics as varied as educational research, leadership, student engagement and curriculum analysis will provide you with a clear understanding of the nature and significance of policy and practice in education. You will be introduced to key ideas and ways of thinking that enable you to focus on areas of education that are relevant to your own interests and professional development. The Master’s dissertation gives you the opportunity to further explore your interests, equipping you with the academic and professional skills that will help you take the next step in your career.

Offering a range of flexible delivery routes, the MA in Education is suitable for students from all backgrounds and countries. In addition to the full-time study route, the course is also available part-time, with teaching time scheduled to make the course accessible for those in full-time employment.

Course structure

Core modules:

Engaging with some of the key debates in education today, Conceptual Perspectives in Education considers the role of ‘theory’ in the research process. You will develop an understanding of the ways in which education theories and/or conceptual frameworks inform the types of questions researchers ask about education and learn how this contributes to educational research.

Design and Methods in Education Research introduces key issues, terms and ideas in education research. It teaches a range of key research skills including the evaluation of research techniques across different research contexts, and the ability to conduct a high-quality study. You will learn to recognise the different purposes of education research; understand key terms and vocabulary in education research; and develop a critical standpoint in relation to research in education.

The Master’s Dissertation is a substantial piece of research based on an educational issue within your chosen field of study. You will use an approved research strategy to design and carry out your research and report the outcomes.

Examples of optional modules:

  • Secondary Data in Education Research
  • Ethnographies of Education
  • Measurement in Education Research
  • Student Engagement
  • Experiments in Education
  • International Development and Education in a Global World
  • Psychological Perspectives on Learning
  • Effective Educational Leadership
  • Curriculum Analysis
  • Arts in Education
  • Language, Education and Power
  • Learning and Individual Differences

Information for international students

If you are an international student who does not meet the requirements for direct entry to this degree, you may be eligible to take a pre-Masters pathway programme at the Durham University International Study Centre.

Fees and funding

UK students
£10,400
International students
£22,500

For further information see the course listing.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MA
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
School of Education