Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

This degree introduces core themes in education: learning and development, sociological and psychological perspectives, curriculum and assessment, inclusion and special educational needs, and research methods. Modules typically combine theoretical study with applied tasks and observations, covering topics such as:

• Foundations of education – historical and philosophical perspectives on schooling and learning.
• Child and adolescent development – cognitive, social and emotional development across age ranges.
• Curriculum, pedagogy and assessment – approaches to teaching, curriculum design and how learning is assessed.
• Inclusion and special educational needs – policy and practice for supporting diverse learners.
• Education policy and the sociology of education – how policy, inequality and community shape educational outcomes.
• Research methods for education – qualitative and quantitative methods, ethics and small-scale projects.
• Professional practice and placements – school visits, classroom observation and community-based learning activities to develop practical skills.

The programme is structured to build academic skills and applied experience across the three years. Students complete assessed coursework, presentations, research projects and often a final-year dissertation or major project that allows in-depth investigation of a chosen educational issue.

Entry requirements

Entry is typically based on successful completion of post-16 qualifications such as A-levels, BTEC Extended Diplomas or equivalent international qualifications. Applicants are normally expected to demonstrate literacy and numeracy through GCSEs (or equivalents) including passes in English and maths. Admissions decisions take into account personal statements, references and any relevant experience working with children or young people. Mature applicants and those with non-traditional routes are welcome and assessed on the strength of their overall profile and potential.

Career prospects

Graduates from Education Studies pursue a wide range of careers across the education and youth sectors. Common destinations include:

• Initial teacher training routes (for those who wish to teach in schools) or progression to a PGCE.
• Roles in early years and childcare settings, learning support and classroom assistant posts.
• Youth work, community education and outreach roles in the voluntary or public sector.
• Education policy, administration, advocacy and roles in local authorities or charities.
• Educational publishing, resources development, curriculum support and training roles.
• Further academic study at master’s level and research careers in education.

The programme emphasises employability skills—communication, reflective practice, project design and research—allowing graduates to adapt to a variety of professional contexts involving learners and education systems.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham Trent University offers this programme within a supportive learning environment with staff who bring research-informed perspectives on education studies. Students benefit from links with local schools, community organisations and professional partners that enable meaningful observation and placement opportunities. The campus provides dedicated facilities for learning, access to library and digital resources, and careers and student support services to help with professional development and job applications. The programme is designed to combine academic rigour with practical experience, preparing students for applied roles or further study in education.