Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The programme starts with a foundation year designed to build academic study skills, introduce core concepts in learning and development, and provide a grounding in relevant social science methods. After the foundation year you progress to the three-year Education Studies degree, which combines theoretical study with applied activity.

• Foundation year modules typically cover academic literacy and research skills, introduction to psychology and sociology of education, study skills for higher education, and an introduction to education policy and practice.
• Core degree modules commonly include child and adolescent development, theories of learning, history and philosophy of education, curriculum and assessment, and equality, diversity and inclusion in education.
• Research methods and project work are emphasised: qualitative and quantitative methods, critical approaches to evidence, and a dissertation or substantial research project in the final year.
• Optional and applied modules often allow specialisms such as special educational needs and inclusion, youth work and community learning, international and comparative education, or educational leadership and policy.
• Work-related learning is a feature of the programme: students typically undertake placement or volunteer activity in schools, colleges or community settings, and modules encourage reflection on professional practice.

Entry requirements

The foundation route is intended for applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements for the degree or who need additional preparation for higher education study. Successful applicants are usually expected to demonstrate potential for academic study, an interest in education, and relevant experience or motivation for working with children, young people or communities.

• Typical admissions evidence includes A-levels, BTEC, T-levels, Access to Higher Education diplomas, or equivalent qualifications; mature applicants and those with work experience are welcome to apply.
• Applicants should be prepared to provide a personal statement and references that explain their interest in education studies and their suitability for degree-level study.
• International applicants will need to meet English language requirements and provide equivalent qualifications; additional contextual information and interviews may be used in selection.

Career prospects

Graduates from Education Studies programmes progress into a wide range of careers in education and related sectors. Common routes include roles as teaching assistants, learning support practitioners, youth and community workers, educational welfare or outreach officers, and classroom-based support roles in schools and colleges.

• Many graduates use the degree as preparation for teacher training (such as a PGCE) or for postgraduate study in areas like educational psychology, policy, or leadership.
• Other career options include roles in charities and non-governmental organisations, policy and research organisations, museums and cultural education services, and training and professional development departments in the public and private sectors.
• The programme’s emphasis on research skills and placement experience also supports careers in education research, assessment and curriculum development.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes is known for its applied, professionally informed approach to education and strong links with local schools, colleges and community organisations across Oxfordshire. The university places emphasis on employability, practice-based learning and research-informed teaching, giving students opportunities to gain real-world experience alongside their academic study.

• Students benefit from a supportive learning environment with tutorial support in the foundation year and dedicated academic staff in education studies.
• There are opportunities to connect with research groups and professional networks working on inclusion, community education and teacher development.
• The university’s location near the city of Oxford provides access to a wide range of education settings and cultural resources to enrich study and placement opportunities.