Education Studies

Education Studies is an academic discipline that examines education as a social, political, cultural, and philosophical phenomenon. Unlike teacher training programmes, which focus primarily on classroom practice and subject pedagogy, Education Studies takes a broader analytical perspective, asking fundamental questions about what education is for, how it works, who it serves, and how it could be different. It draws on sociology, psychology, philosophy, history, and policy analysis to illuminate the purposes and effects of educational systems in the UK and internationally.

At Nottingham Trent University, this three-year full-time programme gives you a thorough grounding in the major theoretical and empirical debates in education. You will explore the sociology of education, including questions of class, race, gender, and inequality in educational outcomes, the psychology of learning and development, the history of education policy in England, comparative education, the philosophy of educational values and aims, and the design and evaluation of educational interventions. The programme develops strong academic skills in research, critical reading, and analytical writing alongside a specialist knowledge of education that is applicable across a range of professional contexts.

NTU's location in Nottingham, a diverse city with a complex educational landscape, provides a stimulating backdrop for studying these questions.

Graduates in Education Studies go on to careers in education policy, school business management, educational research, youth work, community education, charity and third sector work with children and young people, and roles in learning and development within organisations. Those who wish to move into school teaching typically complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Education or a School Direct programme after their degree. Some graduates pursue postgraduate study in education, educational research, special educational needs, or social policy.

The analytical and communication skills developed through Education Studies are also valued in many professional contexts beyond education itself, including the civil service, journalism, and consultancy.