Keele University

What you'll study

The programme brings together philosophy modules (logic, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy and philosophy of mind) with education modules (history of education, theories of learning, educational policy and research methods). In Year 1 you will normally take introductory modules that build critical thinking, argumentation and foundational knowledge about education systems and learning theory. In later years you will move on to specialised modules such as Philosophy of Education, Contemporary Issues in Education, Sociology of Education, Comparative Education and Research Methods in Education.

Teaching is delivered through lectures, small seminars and tutorials, and assessment typically combines essays, source analyses, presentations, seen and unseen examinations, and longer research projects. In the final year you will usually complete a substantial piece of independent work — for example a dissertation or extended project — drawing on philosophical methods and/or empirical educational research. There are also opportunities to choose optional modules in related areas (for example politics, psychology or history) and to undertake short placements, school observations or study‑abroad options where available.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a secondary school qualification equivalent to UK A‑levels and evidence of ability in written analysis and argument. Typical offers reflect strong performance in academic subjects; successful applicants usually demonstrate well‑developed reading, writing and reasoning skills. Keele welcomes applications from mature students and from candidates with vocational qualifications, Access to Higher Education diplomas or relevant life experience.

International applicants must meet English language requirements; equivalent qualifications and recognised international credentials are considered. Selection is on the basis of academic achievement, personal statement and references, and where required a short interview or additional written task may be used to assess suitability.

Career prospects

Graduates develop highly transferable skills in critical thinking, written and oral communication, research and ethical reasoning. Common career paths include:

• Further study – postgraduate courses in education, philosophy, social policy, or research degrees (MRes/PhD).
• Professional education roles – school teaching (normally following a postgraduate teaching qualification such as a PGCE), educational support, learning development and curriculum design.
• Policy, advocacy and public sector work – roles in local and national education policy, NGOs and charities focused on children and learning.
• Related professions – journalism, publishing, public engagement, consultancy, HR and civil service positions where analytical and evaluative skills are prized.

Employers value the programme’s blend of theoretical insight and practical understanding of education, and Keele’s careers service offers guidance on postgraduate teacher training, internships and graduate recruitment.

Why study at Keele University

Keele is known for interdisciplinary teaching and a campus environment that supports close working with academics and small‑group learning. Philosophy at Keele emphasises rigorous argument and the history of ideas, while the Education provision draws on research into policy, practice and comparative perspectives. Students benefit from research‑active staff, seminars that encourage discussion and independent research projects supervised by specialists.

The university’s campus provides accessible facilities for study and social life, and there is institutional support for placements, employability and postgraduate progression. The combined approach at Keele is suited to students who want to engage deeply with philosophical questions about education while developing the practical skills needed for careers in teaching, policy and the wider public sphere.