University of Warwick

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical perspectives on learning and organisations with applied approaches to professional development. Core themes include professional learning and development, leadership and change in educational settings, curriculum and assessment, and methods for evaluating practice. Students typically study a mix of taught modules and independent research or a practice‑based dissertation/capstone project that focuses on an issue in their professional context.

• Professional Learning and CPD – contemporary approaches to continuing professional development, adult learning theories and coaching/mentoring strategies.
• Leadership and Change – leadership models, organisational culture, leading improvement and managing change in schools and other learning organisations.
• Curriculum and Assessment – curriculum design, assessment for learning, accountability and curriculum policy implications for professional practice.
• Research Methods – qualitative and quantitative approaches, action research and evaluative methods for investigating professional practice.
• Optional and Specialist Modules – may include workplace learning and vocational education, inclusion and special educational needs, digital learning and innovation, or policy analysis depending on availability.
• Dissertation/Capstone Project – a sustained independent study or practice‑based inquiry that applies research methods to a professional problem or development initiative.

Delivery is designed to accommodate working professionals, with part‑time options and blended learning elements commonly available. Assessment methods include essays, case studies, portfolios, presentations and the final research or practice project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree (or an equivalent professional qualification) and to demonstrate relevant professional experience in education, training or a related field. Strong applications typically include a personal statement outlining professional aims and how the programme will support them, plus one or more references. Candidates without a traditional honours degree but with substantial and recent professional experience may be considered on an individual basis. Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate competence in English through an approved qualification.

Career prospects

Graduates from the MA Professional Education pursue a wide range of roles across education and training sectors. Common career paths include senior classroom teacher roles and school leadership, heads of department, professional development/CPD coordinators, curriculum developers, educational consultants, policy advisers and researchers. The programme is also relevant to learning and development professionals in industry, higher education staff developing teaching practice, and those seeking to move into strategic or consultancy roles that require evidence‑based approaches to improving learning and organisational performance.

Why study at University of Warwick

Studying at Warwick offers a research‑informed environment with strong links between academic expertise and professional practice. The Department and affiliated research centres provide access to staff experienced in education policy, organisational learning and applied research methods. Warwick’s interdisciplinary strengths allow students to draw on resources from related schools and departments, and the university’s professional services support careers, research training and networking. The programme’s flexible delivery and emphasis on applied enquiry make it well suited to professionals aiming to effect change in their own organisations while continuing to work.