Education
Entry requirements
To study for this masters degree course you must hold a bachelors degree from a UK university or other recognised degree-awarding body, or a qualification at equivalent level. Your spoken and written English must be of an adequate standard for postgraduate study. If English is not your first language, we recommend that you will need a minimum score of 7 under the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Please see their website for details. You will usually need to be able to work with learners, but not necessarily in a formal teaching situation. You will be encouraged to relate the content of the modules to your own experiences and to develop skills of independent study and enquiry. If you are not sure whether your qualifications and experience are suitable, please contact us for advice. There are two options to studying the qualification. A 2-year option (fast track) or a 3 year option (standard). We recommend that you choose carefully and plan your work accordingly. Please note that if you are planning to follow the Applied Linguistics route starting in October 2015 the minimum time for completion is 3 years; from October 2016 you will be able to complete in two years.
Months of entry
October, April, February
Course content
This flexible qualification offers four specialist routes - applied linguistics, inclusive practice, leadership and management, or learning and teaching - enabling you to engage with issues, concepts, and debates in an area that supports your professional development. Your investigative study will draw on your own and others' experience and on appropriate literature, and will develop your understanding of the role and the limitations of research in informing educational practice. The qualification includes a literature review in a topic of your choice, and a substantial dissertation or research project situated in your own practice. You will need some experience of working with learners, either in teaching, the education advisory service, educational administration or an allied field, which may include informal learning settings.
You will need a computer with internet access to study for this qualification. For most OU qualifications a Microsoft Windows (new since 2007), Apple Mac (OS X 10.6 or later) or Linux computer should be adequate. However, some qualifications require more specific IT equipment, in which case you will need additional software to use an Apple Mac or Linux computer. A detailed technical specification for your modules will be made available when you register. Please note, technical specifications do change over time to match computer developments and the way we teach.
The Open University is the world's leading provider of flexible, high quality distance learning. Unlike other universities we are not campus based. You will study in a flexible way that works for you whether you're at home, at work or on the move. As an OU student you'll be supported throughout your studies - your tutor or study adviser will guide and advise you, offer detailed feedback on your assignments, and help with any study issues. Tuition might be in face-to-face groups, via online tutorials, or by phone.
Fees and funding
Costs are paid per unit not per qualification.
Qualification and course duration
MAEd, MEd
Course contact details
- Phone
- 0300 303 5303