University of Reading, MA, Education

The MA in Education modules are intended both to strengthen professional practice and to deepen understanding of educational issues. Students may also elect to undertake a pathway that gives them a specialism in the title of their Masters. They do this by taking modules to the value of at least 40 credits relating to the specialism and undertaking a dissertation on an appropriate topic.

Specialist pathways of the MA in Education:

1. Leadership and Management

This pathway is aimed at national and international current and future leaders from all education sectors, including administrators. You will critically analyse key concepts in educational leadership and management theory and practice within the context of an ever-changing political climate and an increasing culture of both market and government accountability. Modules include Key Concepts in Educational Leadership; Leading and Managing Educational Change; and Educational Leadership and Management Independent Study.

2. English Language Teaching

With this pathway you will acquire knowledge and skills in the areas of second language acquisition, ELT methodology, educational studies and academic skills. You will also reflect on your own pedagogical practices and/or learning experiences in ESL/EFL. Modules include English and Language: Study Skills and Research Methods; Second Language Teaching and Learning; Investigating Education; Developing Expertise in Teaching; and Assessment and Measurement.

3. Inclusive Education

Through this pathway you can deepen your insights into different types of disabilities and ways to meet the needs of these groups. You will have the opportunity to explore the theoretical perspectives and practical applications of these in a written dissertation. Modules include: Learners with Special Educational Needs; Child Development and Education; and Supporting Students with Autistic Spectrum Disorder

4. Early Years

This pathway is ideal if you already have some experience of working with young children and an intention to work in this profession in a leadership capacity. There is a distinctive focus on applying cutting-edge research in child development and theories of professional ethics and leadership. Modules include Child Development and The Professional Self in Early Years Leadership.

5. Music Education

This pathway enables those with experience of music education to deepen their understanding of the theoretical and contextual issues related to their work, and to undertake extended reflective evaluation of aspects of their practice. Modules include Music in Education, Conceptual Issues in Music Education, Music Making: Leadership in School and Community and Musical Development: Appraisal and Assessment.

6. Mathematics teaching

The course enables you to develop deep subject and pedagogical knowledge within key themed areas of primary mathematics. You will gain cutting-edge knowledge of a government priority area in primary education. Participants will leave the course with a deeper insight into the complex nature of the teaching and learning of primary mathematics. Potential students do not need a background in mathematics to join this course. Modules include Improving Primary Mathematics and Leading Primary Mathematics.

Successful completion of at least 100 credits relating to a specific pathway may lead to the award of a Masters in Education with the specialism named in the title e.g. Master of Arts in Education (English Education).

The optional modules will vary from year to year, therefore the availability of specialist pathways may not be guaranteed; students will receive full information at the start of the programme.

This programme is truly modular, and all people registered are able to tailor their programme of study to their own interests. We offer a large number of modules each year, and we have information about each in the programme prospectus to help you make your selection. Please note that modules will only run if sufficient numbers are recruited.