Education

Education as an academic subject is far broader than teacher training alone. It is the study of how learning happens, how educational systems are organised and governed, what values and purposes education serves in society, and how it can be made more equitable, effective and responsive to the needs of all learners. An Education degree develops critical, reflective practitioners and scholars who can contribute to educational improvement and social change in a wide variety of roles, not only in schools but across the many settings in which learning and development take place throughout life.

At the University of Plymouth, this full-time three-year programme includes a year abroad, broadening your perspective on educational systems and approaches across different cultural and national contexts. The degree is designed for students who are drawn to education as a force for personal and social transformation, whether in schools, communities, social care, youth work or international development. You will explore innovation, social justice, inclusion, special educational needs, equality, diversity and creativity as dimensions of educational practice, developing the reflective and analytical capabilities that underpin effective educational work in complex and diverse contexts.

Education graduates go on to careers in teaching (following further professional qualifications such as a PGCE), early years education, support and learning assistance, youth work, community education and development, social care, educational policy, international development with a focus on access to education, and leadership within educational organisations. The broad range of transferable skills the degree develops, including critical analysis, communication and reflective practice, also opens doors in the third sector, public services and organisations concerned with equality and social justice. Many graduates go on to postgraduate study in education, social work or related fields.