Education Studies

Primary education is one of the most formative professions a person can enter, shaping children's understanding, curiosity and confidence during the years when foundations are laid that last a lifetime. The BA (Hons) Education Studies (Primary) at Queen Margaret University Edinburgh is described as Scotland's newest teacher education degree, and it leads to the professional qualification needed to work as a primary teacher in Scotland. This four-year full-time programme takes a serious and reflective approach to what it means to teach young children effectively, combining academic study of education with substantial school-based experience throughout.

You will study child development, curriculum theory and practice, the sociology and philosophy of education, learning and teaching approaches across all areas of the primary curriculum, and the professional ethics and legal frameworks that govern teaching in Scotland. The programme develops your understanding of how children learn as well as your practical skills in planning, delivering and assessing learning across a range of subjects and age groups. Placement experience in schools is woven through the degree, so that your academic learning and professional practice develop in dialogue rather than in isolation.

A typical tariff of around 168 points is expected for entry.

Graduates of this programme are qualified to register with the General Teaching Council for Scotland and to work as primary teachers across Scottish state and independent schools. Teaching offers a wide range of career pathways including specialist roles, promoted posts, headship, support for learning, curriculum leadership and advisory work. The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in educational psychology, curriculum development, leadership or related areas for those who wish to move beyond the classroom.