Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The programme combines core theoretical study with applied and research components to explore education systems, policy and practice in an international context. You will engage with comparative education, globalisation and development, curriculum and assessment issues across different national and cultural settings, and with themes such as inclusion, equity and the politics of education.

• Core modules typically include Comparative and International Perspectives on Education; Education Policy and Development; Research Methods for Education (qualitative and quantitative approaches); and Leadership and Management in International Contexts.
• Optional modules allow specialisation and may include Curriculum Design and Assessment, Inclusive Education and Special Needs in Global Contexts, Education, Inequality and Social Justice, Education in Emergencies, and Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) for education programmes.
• Research project or dissertation: you will normally complete a substantial independent research project or practice-led dissertation, applying research methods to a question in international education. Project supervision is provided by staff with expertise across comparative education, development and policy studies.
• Learning and assessment methods include seminars, case studies, policy analyses, research assignments, presentations and the final dissertation/project. The programme emphasises critical reflection on practice and the translation of theory into policy and programme design.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an honours degree at a 2:1 level (or international equivalent) in education or a related discipline. Candidates with a lower second class degree plus relevant professional experience (for example teaching, education management, NGO programme work or policy roles) are also considered. Evidence of recent professional practice or a clear statement of purpose that demonstrates motivation and fit with the programme is helpful.

International applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency through an approved test or recognised qualification (for example an academic IELTS score typically around a mid 6.0s band or equivalent), though exact English language requirements should be checked against the University's current guidance. Applicants may be invited to interview or provide a work-based reference when relevant.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme go on to a range of careers in the education sector, international development and policy. Typical destinations include:

• Educational leadership and management roles in international and private schools
• Programme officer, monitoring and evaluation or policy roles in NGOs, charities and multilateral agencies
• Advisory and consultancy work on curriculum, assessment and teacher development
• Positions in government or civil service departments responsible for education policy and reform
• Research and academic roles, or further study at doctoral level

The programme is designed to develop transferable skills in research, critical analysis, project design and stakeholder engagement that are valued by employers working across national and international education contexts.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes has a strong reputation for practice‑oriented teacher education and a research-active Institute of Education with expertise in comparative and international education, inclusion and educational leadership. The University emphasises small-group teaching, personalised supervision for research projects and opportunities to engage with practitioners through guest lectures, partnerships and professional networks.

Students benefit from being in Oxford, a city with a wide range of educational organisations, international NGOs and academic events, and from Brookes’ employability support, careers services and connections that can help with placements and professional development. The programme’s combination of theoretical rigour and applied focus aims to prepare graduates to lead, influence and innovate in diverse international education settings.