University of Central Lancashire(UCLAN)

What you'll study

The programme begins with a foundation year that develops academic study skills, introductory subject knowledge and personal and professional development. After successful completion of the foundation year you move into the undergraduate BA stages where study combines modules in education with selected humanities subjects such as history, geography, English literature, religious studies and social sciences.

• Foundation year: study skills, academic writing, research methods, introductory subject content, digital literacy and preparation for university-level study.
• Core education modules: foundations of education and learning, child and adolescent development, inclusive and special educational needs, behaviour and classroom management, curriculum studies and educational policy.
• Humanities modules: options typically include British and world history surveys, cultural studies, human geography, literature and language modules, and religion, belief and ethics.
• Professional practice and placements: structured school or community placements enable you to apply theory in real settings and develop employability skills; these form an important practical element of the degree.
• Research and project work: research methods for education and a final-year independent project or dissertation allow you to specialise in an area that links education and humanities.

Entry requirements

Entry is intended for applicants who need a foundation year to progress to undergraduate study. Typical criteria include a mix of GCSEs (including GCSE English and mathematics at an appropriate grade or recognised equivalent) and either A-levels, a BTEC National Diploma, Access to Higher Education Diploma or relevant work experience. Mature applicants and those with non-traditional qualifications are considered on an individual basis, and the foundation year is designed to support applicants who do not yet meet standard entry requirements for the BA programme.

Specific offers and exact grade requirements are set by the university and can vary by applicant background; applicants should consult UCLan's admissions guidance for precise requirements and for information on how prior learning and experience may be recognised.

Career prospects

Graduates gain a broad skillset valued across the education and public sectors. Common career paths include roles as teaching assistants, learning support practitioners, youth and community workers, education officers in museums and heritage organisations, learning and development roles in the voluntary sector, and classroom-based support roles in schools and colleges.

Those wishing to become qualified teachers typically progress to postgraduate teacher training (for example a PGCE or School-Centred Initial Teacher Training) after completing the BA; the degree provides subject knowledge and experience of professional practice that support entry to these routes. Graduates also use the degree as a foundation for further study or research in education, humanities disciplines or related professional qualifications.

Why study at University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

UCLan offers a practical, applied approach to education studies with strong links to local schools, colleges and community organisations, providing regular placement opportunities and employer engagement. The university has established teacher education provision and facilities that support hands-on learning, including dedicated learning spaces, classrooms for practice teaching and a central library and digital resources to support independent study.

Students benefit from small-group teaching, academic staff active in research and professional practice in education and access to careers and placement support services to help plan progression into employment or postgraduate training. The foundation route is tailored to widen access to higher education and to prepare students for successful transition into degree-level study.