BA (Hons) Education Studies
An Education Studies degree will help you to understand the key issues, policies and debates that are in education today. You will gain an insight into how education systems develop and how children and adults learn. The course is a strong foundation for a variety of careers.

Elizabeth Lefever
“I’ve always wanted to work in the childcare industry and chose this course as the best option to further my career. I like the fact that I have work placements in nurseries and schools to get more experience and become more confident. The support staff and teachers are happy to help and full of encouragement.”

Luca Chareun
“I enjoyed the practical work experience within my course.”
-
Description
A degree in Education Studies is an interdisciplinary practice, supplying the necessary knowledge and methodical structure needed to support individuals and organisations within the educational sector.
Education Studies will enable you to lead with a positive outset to your working environment and the people you will work with. You will gain a good understanding of the various aspects that go into the field of education and acquire the abilities required to succeed with a career in education.
This course examines the ways in which knowledge, skills and attitudes are developed in individuals, both overtly and covertly, through the 'hidden' curriculum. It draws on a range of disciplines, including the psychology, sociology, philosophy and history of education, curriculum studies, comparative and international education, and education policy. These disciplines are the theoretical underpinnings of the course.
Typical topics include: Year 1: Recent and Contemporary Education Issues Education in a Global Context Development Health and Learning Supporting Learners in Education Settings
Year 2: Young People and Society Research Methods Debates in Education The Psychology of Learning and Teaching in Educational Settings Transitions for Children, Young People and Families
Year 3: Education Studies Dissertation Education, Culture and Society Critical Perspectives on Current Education Practices Child and Adolescent Mental Health Educational Aims Values and Ethics
This course operates using a blended learning approach where part of some units may be delivered online via Microsoft Teams. To participate in this programme you will need a suitable computer and/or device with sufficient internet access. Specific requirements and information on the support available to borrow or purchase equipment can be discussed at interview.
-
Entry Requirements
A typical offer would be BCC at A-Level or DMM at BTEC. Applications are welcome from students with a range of non-traditional educational or professional qualifications. We also welcome mature students and students who have undertaken Access courses. As a minimum: 3 GCSE's Grade A-C / 9-4 or Level 2 equivalent to include Mathematics and English Language Plus at least one of the following: 1 A Level, or, 1 Level 3 qualification, or Access to Higher Education Diploma In exceptional circumstances applicants will be considered on the submission of an extended Curriculum Vitae, satisfactory professional references and a successful interview. If English is not your first language, an IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands is required.
Independent study skills and good time management skills are needed. You should be familiar with basic computer functions and applications including Microsoft Windows and Office. Parts of your programme will be delivered using Microsoft Teams. Training for this application will be provided.
-
Qualification
BA (Hons) Education Studies awarded by University of Northampton
-
Progression
This course gives you the foundation that you need for any career related to education or young people. Many graduates go on to Initial Teacher Training, taking the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or School Direct route to becoming a qualified teacher. Other graduates work with charities or go onto Master's level study in education, social work, children's mental health or counselling. These are career paths and roles BA Education Studies graduates pursue after graduation: Teaching Assistant Youth Worker Early Years, Primary, Secondary or Further Education teacher Special educational needs teacher or coordinator (SENCO) English as a foreign language teacher Creative Therapist Community Education Officer
-
Assessment
There are no exams for Education Studies. Instead, assessments take the form of essays, portfolios, presentations, analysis and reflection.
-
Home Study
You are expected to work independently and proactively to prepare for class and undertake written assignments in your own time for approximately six hours a week on research and self-study outside of normal class time in order to build up knowledge, confidence and successfully complete the programme. This may be completed at home or in the UCN.
-
Work Placement
The course does not involve work placement, but you are encouraged to seek out opportunities to visit or engage with companies within the industry.
-
Fees and Additional Costs
The tuition fee for this programme is £8,000 per year. In addition to the tuition fees, an annual student association fee of £15 is payable. At times, you may be offered the opportunity to visit exhibitions and shows, which may require additional entrance fees and travel costs.
Code | Start | Fees* |
---|---|---|
EDU/BA/FT 232601 | September 2023 | Fee Information |
-
Programmes currently in progress
Please be aware that this course has already started. Please call 01635 845000 to check if spaces are available
Code Start Fees* EDU/BA/FT 222501 September 2022 Fee Information
* Terms and conditions apply. The fees stated on this website are for guidance purposes only and should be checked before enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, fees shown are for tuition only, over one term (Community Learning courses) or one academic year. Where a course is longer than one academic year, the fees stated are for the first year, and the cost of the second or subsequent years will be discussed at interview. For details of fee remission for students over 19 click here. If you think you may be entitled to a concession or fee remission, or you would like more information on the additional costs associated with your chosen course, please contact us on 01635 845000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Fee information
16 - 18 year olds
In most cases, students aged 16-18 on a full-time study programme (including T Levels) will not be required to pay fees, and the College will fund most course-specific equipment and materials. This excludes stationary, non-curriculum trips and a £15 College Subscription.
19 years and over
Students aged 19 years and over may be required to pay fees. Our Fees, Funding and Financial Support page has details on financial support, fee remissions and loans. Please note that some courses may have additional registration, examination and/or materials fees. Where we have been unable to provide these additional costs in this information, they will be discussed with you before enrolment.
Funded programmes
Where course fees are fully funded (for example Maths, English and Essential Digital Skills), the course is free of charge to students, subject to eligibility.
Skills Bootcamps
Skills Bootcamps are fully funded and free of charge to learners. Employers who want to use Skills Bootcamps to train their existing employees contribute to the cost of training. See the Fees and Additional Costs for more information.