Applied Professional Studies in Education

Drawing on your own experiences as a professional educator, you will gain a deep understanding of applied educational research methods and acquire the skills to be a critical researcher. Guided by expert staff, you'll also choose your own independent research project.

Course description

This course is designed for professional educators from a wide range of settings, including teachers, lecturers, coaches, mentors and paraprofessionals. Our MA will give you the knowledge and skills to have a positive, research-led impact. You will be able to apply what you learn to your current role, career aspirations or a specific educational context. You’ll also be well prepared to progress to doctoral level study.

This is a distance learning course, which means you can learn flexibly, and balance study around work, family life or other commitments.

Each module is designed to be tailored to your own personal interests and expertise.

We will guide you through exploring your philosophy as an educator - giving you the opportunity to draw on your own learning and teaching experiences, while reflecting on your personal and professional development. Our expert staff will help you situate and guide your research in a culturally responsive and ethical way.

You’ll explore your own interests and develop a strong understanding of the key issues in educational research, including ethical research and how to apply research evidence to professional practice. You will develop widely transferable and practical skills that can be applied to complex educational research problems. These skills will also support your career development.

You will choose your own independent research project (dissertation module). Throughout, we will support you with planning and carrying out research activity related to your professional role.

Previous students have had impact by sharing their research insights within their professional contexts and even beyond, via publication or conference.

You will be able to engage with fellow students through our innovative teaching methods. For example, you can attend our hybrid Saturday study schools either in person or online. You will share, communicate and evolve your ideas as part of a community of practitioner researchers. You’ll be assigned an individual tutor who will support you as you develop your project and provide constructive feedback.

If you do not already have a Postgraduate Certificate in Education or equivalent then we recommend our iPGCE as excellent preparation for the MA Applied Professional Studies in Education.