Education Studies and Psychology

About the course

Education Studies is an exciting and thought provoking course that enables you to look at education from a variety of perspectives and because it is a Joint Honours degree (where you study two subjects equally) you can combine this with your choice of partner subject, such as English or Community Studies. You will examine methods of teaching and learning today and explore the philosophy, psychology, history and sociology of education.

If you are interested in a career in teaching, training or related sectors this course is for you. You may be looking to a career as a librarian, adult education worker, classroom assistant or teacher, educational psychologist, local government worker or careers consultant. Education Studies offers progression to these and other rewarding graduate careers.

This course is a Joint Honours degree - where you study both subjects equally. We can help guide you through the choice of subjects.

What you will learn

This course is both theoretical and applied – you will be expected to undertake a placement in a school or college and analyse learning and teaching from a variety of perspectives. You will develop skills in academic writing, research and critical thinking as well as study skills such as referencing, essay planning and analysing data. You will be supported in the development of such essential skills as teamwork, debate and presentation and will be required to demonstrate your abilities in organisation and time management and ICT.

Skills in social research methodology and analysing data and text will enable you to develop an understanding of the political, cultural, economic and historical factors that shape education today. Learning is through a mix of formal sessions, tutorials and guided study/research. Assessment is through case studies, essays, oral presentation and portfolios. There are no examinations.

Education Studies is a thorough and challenging course that will equip you with a range of skills including: written and verbal presentation skills, evaluation skills, team and individual working and time management. All are directly relevant to the education and skills sector; all are transferable and highly valued by a range of graduate employers.

What you will study

First year modules include reflective thinking, learning theories and an introduction to educational psychology. In the second year we move to modules on equality and diversity, educational research and observing learning and teaching. In the final year of study you have a greater choice about what you will study; choices include philosophy of education, global perspectives on education, mentoring and performance in education.

Your skills in making presentations will be developed and assessed. We also aim to develop your skills in social research methodology, ICT and working with others. We will support you in improving your skills of critical analysis and critical, reflective thinking which you will use when considering the political, cultural, economic and historical factors that shape education today.

Special features

* You will have the opportunity to undertake at least one placement in an educational setting, such as a school or a college, where you will observe learning and teaching, talk to learners and interview teachers about their role and experiences.

* Our teaching draws on your own experiences as a starting point for understanding the formal educational process. You will be expected to contribute to research and discussion by engaging in critical reflection and by listening to the experiences of others.

* The university is known for its friendly atmosphere and small class sizes. You will be studying with students from a variety of backgrounds; and you will have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience.

* You will be taught by professional and approachable tutors throughout your course, and have one-to-one support.

* In addition to excellent library facilities the university offers 24/7 IT access and campus-wide WiFi.

Careers and professional development

Many of our graduates progress into teaching, training and learning support. If you combine education studies with an appropriate subject and undertake work experience placements in an education setting then teacher training for primary, secondary or further education may be a suitable progression route.

If you eventually wish to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) it is also important that you check with potential teacher training course providers that the partner subject you choose will allow you entry onto those courses.
You may also go on to complete a masters degree in an area related to your degree.

If you were born after 1 September 1979 and you wish to progress onto teacher training courses to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), allowing you to teach in schools (primary and key stage 2/3), you need to be aware of the requirement for GCSE Science, grade C or above, for entry onto these courses.

Selected modules on the undergraduate course have been designed to provide awards in continuing professional development.

On graduation you will automatically become a member of the university’s Alumni Association, gaining access to a wide range of university facilities, including libraries, journals and periodicals as well as professional and employment advice, throughout your career.

Our combined honours courses include:

BA (Hons) Business Management and Education Studies
BA (Hons) Community Studies and Education Studies
BA (Hons) Creative Writing and Education Studies
BA (Hons) Education Studies and Modern & Contemporary History
BA (Hons) Education Studies and English
BA/BSc (Hons) Education Studies and Human Sciences
BA/BSc (Hons) Education Studies and Mathematics

Requirements

Entry requirements(typical offer)

You need to meet the entry requirements for both subjects in full.

For entry to Education Studies:

200 UCAS points from least two A2-levels (or equivalent) in any subjects.

You should also have five GCSEs at grade C or above (or equivalent) including English and mathematics.

Special consideration is given to applicants without the above qualifications who have relevant work/life experience.

If you do not meet the entry requirements for this course please consider one of the following courses as an alternative: BA (Hons) Community Studies and Education Studies with a foundation semester, BA (Hons) Education Studies and English with a foundation semester, Access to HE Diploma: English & Education, or Access to HE Diploma: Community Studies, Psychology and Education.

Mode of attendance: Full-time