Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This programme combines theoretical perspectives with applied practice to build advanced coaching and mentoring capability. You will study contemporary models and evidence-informed approaches to coaching and mentoring, ethical frameworks and professional standards, and the role of supervision in sustaining practice.

• Core coaching and mentoring practice: advanced skills, contract design, relational and systemic approaches, group and team coaching.
• Theory and evidence: critical appraisal of key models and research, translating theory into practice, reflective practice methods.
• Professional practice and ethics: codes of conduct, boundary management, diversity and inclusion in coaching/mentoring.
• Supervision and practitioner development: models of supervision, peer learning, maintaining professional competence.
• Research methods and project or dissertation: qualitative and quantitative approaches tailored to practice-based research, culminating in a substantial work-based project or empirical dissertation.

Delivery is typically flexible to accommodate practising professionals, with options for part-time study and blended learning that include seminars, skills labs, and applied assignments based on real workplace contexts.

Entry requirements

Applicants usually need an undergraduate degree (for example a UK honours degree at 2:2 level or equivalent) and relevant professional experience in coaching, line management, human resources, learning and development, education or other roles involving mentoring and development. Candidates without a degree but with substantial professional experience may be considered on an individual basis.

• Evidence of reflective practice and recent experience of coaching or mentoring is normally required.
• Two professional references, one of which should comment on your professional suitability for postgraduate study, are typically requested.
• International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements (e.g. an approved English-language qualification at the required level).
• Successful applicants may be invited to a short interview or to submit a written statement outlining their practice and development goals.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers as internal or external coaches, mentoring programme managers, learning and development specialists, leadership development consultants and organisational development practitioners. The programme also supports those seeking to progress into senior HR or L&D roles, to establish an independent coaching practice, or to undertake doctoral research in coaching, mentoring and leadership.

Typical roles include:

• Executive, leadership and team coach
• Mentoring coordinator or programme lead
• Learning and development consultant
• Organisational development practitioner
• Freelance coach or supervisor

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes has a strong reputation for applied, vocational postgraduate provision and for supporting practitioners to connect scholarship with workplace impact. The university offers experienced academic staff who are research-active in coaching and mentoring and who maintain links with professional networks and employers.

• Programmes are designed to be practice-led, enabling you to bring workplace cases directly into your learning.
• Flexible study patterns suit busy professionals, combining interactive teaching, skills labs and independent research.
• Opportunities to build a professional portfolio, receive supervision and pursue routes to professional recognition with external bodies.
• Located in Oxford, the university provides access to a broad professional community, continuing professional development events and networking opportunities.