Education BA/BSc
Study of how people learn and how educational systems operate, exploring teaching, child development, learning theories, policy, and the wider social and cultural factors that shape education.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in teaching or education
Enjoy working with people
Want to make a difference
Like learning about development
Are patient and communicative
Popular Career Fields
Education
Government & Public Sector
Charity & NGO Sector
Research & Academia
Your Personality Might Be:
Passionate educator
Government & Public Sector
Empathetic
Policy-aware
What is it?
What is an Education degree?
An Education degree examines the processes of learning and teaching, the structure of education systems, and the ways in which individuals, communities, and societies engage with education.
You’ll explore theories of learning, child and adolescent development, curriculum design, behaviour, inequality, and the role of education in social change.
While this degree does not usually grant Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), it builds the academic foundations for careers in teaching, youth work, education policy, community development, training, or further professional study such as a PGCE.
Education is broad, multidisciplinary, and highly relevant to students interested in people, learning, and social justice.
Why study Education?
If you’re curious about how learning happens, how schools operate, and how education affects society, this degree offers both depth and flexibility.
It helps you understand:
How children and young people learn and develop
How education can address inequality and promote inclusion
How curriculum, assessment, and pedagogy shape classroom experiences
How policy decisions influence schools and communities
How educators support wellbeing, behaviour, and motivation
An Education degree combines theoretical study with applied insight relevant to many people-focused careers.
Course Summary
Study of how people learn and how educational systems operate, exploring teaching, child development, learning theories, policy, and the wider social and cultural factors that shape education.
What you'll study
Most Education degrees cover:
Learning theories and developmental psychology
Curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment
Education policy, social justice, and inclusion
Child and adolescent development
Behaviour, wellbeing, and safeguarding
Research methods in education
Skills You'll Gain
An Education degree helps you build both analytical and communication skills, including:
Understanding of learning and development – enabling you to apply psychological and educational theories to real-world contexts.
Research and analytical skills – helping you gather evidence, interpret data, and evaluate educational practice.
Communication and interpersonal ability – supporting effective work with learners, families, and professionals.
Critical thinking about policy and society – allowing you to analyse how education systems shape and are shaped by social forces.
Organisation and project management – equipping you to plan lessons, interventions, or research activities confidently.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates work in a wide range of roles, including:
Primary or secondary teaching (via PGCE, School Direct, etc.)
Learning support or SEN roles
Educational psychology (with postgraduate training)
Youth work and family support
Education policy, research, or consultancy
Community education or outreach
Early years and childcare leadership
Training and development roles in organisations
Work Experiences & Placements
Depending on the university, opportunities may include:
Schools and early years settings
Youth work and community organisations
SEND support roles
Educational charities and social enterprises
Mental health and wellbeing services
Local authority education departments
Placements are especially useful for students planning to pursue teaching or educational support roles.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent. Most universities accept a broad range of subjects. English, Psychology, Sociology, History, or a subject you wish to teach are beneficial.
Personal Statement Tips
Show passion for learning, child development, or social justice.
Mention relevant experiences (volunteering, youth work, mentoring, school involvement).
Reflect on an educational issue that matters to you (e.g., inclusion, wellbeing, inequality).
Highlight empathy, communication, organisation, and curiosity.
What to do Next
Decide whether you’re interested in teaching or broader education roles.
Look for degrees offering placements or school experience.
Follow education news, policy developments, and debates.
Gain voluntary or paid experience with children or young people.
Wider Reading
How Children Learn – John Holt
A classic exploration of children’s natural curiosity and learning processes.Pedagogy of the Oppressed – Paulo Freire
A powerful text about education, social change, and critical thinking.The Learning Brain – Blakemore & Frith
A clear introduction to how neuroscience informs education and child development.Education and Equality – Harry Brighouse
An accessible look at fairness, opportunity, and the purposes of education.