University of Reading, MA, Education

The MA in Education at the Institute of Education is a vibrant and diverse programme that draws students from around the world as well as locally. Experts in content areas as well as teacher training deliver this modular master’s programme, this allows students to personalize their studies to focus on their individual areas of interest.

You can examine the broader philosophical issues underpinning education, sociological and psychological aspects of learning and issues to do with improving the effectiveness of teaching and learning. This aim is achieved by exploring a range of theoretical perspectives and by subjecting you to critical scrutiny, drawing where appropriate on your own practical knowledge. 

The University offers a wide range of high quality modules oriented to the continuing professional development of teachers, education leaders and other education professionals. Exit awards are offered at PG Dip and PG Cert levels. The University welcomes applications from those with an educational background or an interest in working in an educational context. 

Students will also benefit from:

• a top 3% UK ranked institute
• a top 1% world ranked university
• The London Road campus, refurbished at a cost of £30 million providing it with the best and most attractive facilities in the UK.

Career prospective

The University's excellent links with local schools ensure that its employment rates are consistently high, with well over 90 per cent of NQTs finding a teaching job last year.

With pay scales to match other industries, job security, an excellent pension and better work-life balance, teaching is becoming one of the most sought-after professions of today. The University's masters' and professional courses have allowed many teachers to gain promotion within their institutions. A number of students also continue their studies onto EdD/PhD courses to develop a career in educational research.

Student feedback:

“I found the course very interesting and engaging. The modules were quite diverse, and there were a lot of options to choose from depending on what your interests are. I particularly enjoyed the lectures on special needs by Dr. Catherine Tissot where I learned a lot about learners with special educational needs. Another module which I also found very interesting and useful was Helen Bilton's module on the early year’s education. Overall, it has been a great experience to study at the University of Reading.”

Maria Smolyakova 2012