Education MA
Course code: MX3AC (required to complete application form)
We know that finding time to invest in your own education can be a challenge when you’re focused on educating others. That’s why our Department for Education (DfE) -approved online MA Education is highly flexible, allowing you to study at your own pace and accrue qualifications along the way – not just at the very end.
We know from previous students, that it has lasting benefits – it’s helped people gain more senior roles, enriched their teaching, challenged their preconceptions, and boosted their confidence.
You are in control
Studying online gives you the flexibility to study at the most convenient time and place for you. Course modules still operate within a fixed semester or term time, but you can choose to study during the day, in the evenings or at the weekend rather than having to attend fixed lectures. Online class discussions are largely focussed on contextualisation of theory to practice, so it's stimulating, engaging and highly relevant to your day-to-day, professional life.
If you do not wish to complete the full Masters degree, you can step off at one of the following stages and still obtain an award:
- University Certificate of Achievement, after completing one (double) module
- PG Certificate, after completing stage 1 (two double modules)
- PG Diploma, after completing stage 2 (four double modules)
Be inspired by others
Students frequently tell us that they most enjoy hearing the diverse mix of experiences, ideas and opinions brought by others taking the course, especially when that challenges their own thinking. Online discussion forums make this possible, and with such a wide variety of people on the course – from assistant headteachers to social workers, from the UK and overseas – that’s not surprising. Our tutors have many years’ experience in the education sector themselves, so they understand your profession and are sympathetic to the pressures of balancing study with a busy teaching job.
Many students are teachers with QTS but we also welcome an application from you if you're involved in other areas of education.
You will usually need an undergraduate degree or an equivalent level 6 qualification. If you don't have these qualifications, please ask – we can often accept equivalent professional experience instead.
You need to provide a CV/ Resume detailing your academic and work experience.
You will normally need one of the following English Language qualifications:
- GCE O level English Language C
- GCSE English C
- IELTS 6.5
- TOEFL (paper-based) 550
- TOEFL (computer-based) 213
Other English Language qualifications may be accepted and you should provide full details of these with your application.
| Per Double Module | Double Modules | Total | Start | |
| UK/EU | £780 | 6* | £4,680* | Sept/Jan/May |
| Overseas | £1,140 | 6* | £6,840* | Sept/Jan/May |
Please note that the modules you study on this course are all double modules (30 credits), apart from the Independent Study which is a quadruple module (60 credits) or a 2 x double module.
*Prices correct for 2012/2013. Subject to annual increase in September 2013.
New flexible payment plans available
Choose from three options:
- Pay only for the modules you are studying
- Pay your full course fees upfront and avoid annual increases
- Pay for all modules studied in the year and receive a 5% discount (September enrolment only)
This course can open doors for you in your career. It might make your CV stand out enough to get you an interview for that more senior role you’ve been looking for, or just give you the confidence to apply for positions you normally wouldn’t have considered.
Previous students have also said that they have performed better at work as a result of this course – bringing greater recognition and respect from peers.
To give you an idea of the range of careers this MA relates to, some of our graduates have gone on to become advanced skills teachers, nursery managers, assistant head teachers, disability coordinators within universities and national trainers for charitable organisations.
You may also wish to go on to further study such as an MPhil, EdD or PhD.
"I have found that the course has developed my professional confidence and has strengthened my understanding of my professional goals."
Chris Dale, student.
"The MA Education at Derby provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on professional practice."
Richard Green, current student
"I would recommend studying the MA Education at Derby as it does make you reflect and analyse why we do the job we enjoy and gives insight into ways to enhance this."
Stuart Cameron, student
If you are entering at Stage 1 of the course (PG Certificate), you may be required to complete the 'Studying at Masters' Level' module, depending on your level of experience and skills, or if you are returning to study after a significant period of time. Your programme leader will advise you if this is necessary once you have submitted your application. If you require any further information about this module, please contact us.
Returning Students: If you are already part way through the course, we will notify you of your study pattern for this academic year.
To complete Stage 1 (PG Certificate), you must complete both of the core options listed below. If you are starting in September 2012, you will study Principles of Leadership and Management first, followed by Advanced Professional Practice.
To complete Stage 2 (PG Diploma), you will need to complete both modules below; Evidence Based Practice, followed by the Negotiated Module for Postgraduate Professional Development 2.
The independent study is a quadruple module, worth 60 credits.
Student Profile:
"I have found that the course has developed my professional confidence and has strengthened my understanding of my professional goals."
Chris Dale, student.
"The MA Education at Derby provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on professional practice."
Richard Green, current student
"I would recommend studying the MA Education at Derby as it does make you reflect and analyse why we do the job we enjoy and gives insight into ways to enhance this."
Stuart Cameron, student
Career Information
This course can open doors for you in your career. It might make your CV stand out enough to get you an interview for that more senior role you’ve been looking for, or just give you the confidence to apply for positions you normally wouldn’t have considered.
Previous students have also said that they have performed better at work as a result of this course – bringing greater recognition and respect from peers.
To give you an idea of the range of careers this MA relates to, some of our graduates have gone on to become advanced skills teachers, nursery managers, assistant head teachers, disability coordinators within universities and national trainers for charitable organisations.
You may also wish to go on to further study such as an MPhil, EdD or PhD.
Modules
If you are entering at Stage 1 of the course (PG Certificate), you may be required to complete the 'Studying at Masters' Level' module, depending on your level of experience and skills, or if you are returning to study after a significant period of time. Your programme leader will advise you if this is necessary once you have submitted your application. If you require any further information about this module, please contact us.
Returning Students: If you are already part way through the course, we will notify you of your study pattern for this academic year.
Stage 1
To complete Stage 1 (PG Certificate), you must complete both of the core options listed below. If you are starting in September 2012, you will study Principles of Leadership and Management first, followed by Advanced Professional Practice.
Learning to lead and manage in the educational arena now involves confronting issues including diversity, inclusion and equality, and embracing change. You will examine the concepts of leadership and management for the 21st century, taking part in debates on leadership characteristics, styles and approaches at all levels of the institution. This is a double module.
How will I be assessed?
It's 100% coursework.
In this module, you need to demonstrate that you can locate your work role within wider professional practice. You will adopt an ethical, enquiry-based approach, looking for how you can develop your own teaching. This is a double module.
How will I be assessed?
It's 100% coursework.
Stage 2
To complete Stage 2 (PG Diploma), you will need to complete both modules below; Evidence Based Practice, followed by the Negotiated Module for Postgraduate Professional Development 2.
You will develop a critical knowledge of research methodologies which will help you to undertake your own ethically reliable and rigorous research. This is a double module.
How will I be assessed?
It's 100% coursework.
In an agreement with your tutor, you can choose an area of educational professional practice, which hasn’t been covered in other modules. It’s an excellent opportunity to study a topic of interest and relevance to you. This is a double module.
How will I be assessed?
It’s 100% coursework.
Stage 3
The independent study is a quadruple module, worth 60 credits.
This module is the culmination of your course. You will research an aspect of professional practice relevant to your career, with support and guidance from your tutor. This is a double module.
How will I be assessed?
It’s 100% coursework.
Many students are teachers with QTS but we also welcome an application from you if you're involved in other areas of education.
You will usually need an undergraduate degree or an equivalent level 6 qualification. If you don't have these qualifications, please ask – we can often accept equivalent professional experience instead.
You need to provide a CV/ Resume detailing your academic and work experience.
You will normally need one of the following English Language qualifications:
- GCE O level English Language C
- GCSE English C
- IELTS 6.5
- TOEFL (paper-based) 550
- TOEFL (computer-based) 213
Other English Language qualifications may be accepted and you should provide full details of these with your application.
Apply Now
Applications for Online courses are made through the main University of Derby website.
By clicking on "Apply now" below you will be redirected to the University of Derby website to continue your application process.
Fees
| Per Double Module | Double Modules | Total | Start | |
| UK/EU | £780 | 6* | £4,680* | Sept/Jan/May |
| Overseas | £1,140 | 6* | £6,840* | Sept/Jan/May |
Please note that the modules you study on this course are all double modules (30 credits), apart from the Independent Study which is a quadruple module (60 credits) or a 2 x double module.
*Prices correct for 2012/2013. Subject to annual increase in September 2013.
New flexible payment plans available
Choose from three options:
- Pay only for the modules you are studying
- Pay your full course fees upfront and avoid annual increases
- Pay for all modules studied in the year and receive a 5% discount (September enrolment only)
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University of Derby Online
Online distance learning
Students
- Alison Harper
- Alison Kozary
- Andrew Muluubya
- Anne-Marie Coulthard
- Candice Sunney
- Caroline Parry-Haddon
- Christine Morrison
- Conrad Aquilina, Malta
- Dario Salvi
- David Egan
- Dorianne Gravina
- Gela Abesadze
- Geraldine Grindley
- Irene McPherson
- Jackie Gibson
- Jody Maynard
- John Rogers
- Karen Marie Jones
- Kerry Maddock
- Kerry Wiggins
- Khalida Kay
- Kirstin Tranter
- Nadine Axisa
- Pascal Hagge
- Paul Ainscough
- Sally Holder
- Sandra Potts
- Sue Delve
- Teresa Jones
- Winifred Corpe
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- Cognitive Behavioural Studies & Skills (not a license for practice), Advanced University Diploma
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- Education MA
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- Environmental Management MSc
- Ergonomics MSc
- Events Management FdA
- Hairdressing and Salon Management BA (Hons) Top Up
- Hairdressing and Salon Management FdA
- Health Psychology MSc
- Hospitality Management BA (Hons) Top Up
- Hotel Management FdA
- Information Technology BSc (Hons) Top Up
- Information Technology MSc
- International Hospitality Management MA
- International Spa Management BSc (Hons)
- Law - LLM Commercial Law
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- MBA
- Nursing Studies (Mental Health) BSc (Hons) Top up
- Nursing Studies BSc (Hons) Top Up
- Psychology BSc (Hons)
- Psychology MSc
- Psychology, University Certificate
- Spa Management FdA
- Strategic Management MSc
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Course Details
Course Length:
2 - 5 years of part time study
Start Dates:
September, January and May
Find out more:
Amber Hunt
T: +44 (0) 1332 594275
Ready to start in January?
Applications for this course are still being accepted. If you wish to start in January, complete our online application form.
Apply now using our Application Guidelines - click here to view


