Education

Education as an academic discipline is the study of how learning takes place, how educational systems are organised and how they interact with social, cultural, political and economic forces. It is distinct from teacher training, though the two overlap: education as a field of study develops critical understanding of what education is for, what it actually does, and how it can be made more effective, equitable and meaningful. The discipline draws on psychology, sociology, philosophy, history and policy studies to examine learning, development, curriculum, assessment, pedagogy and the institutions in which education takes place.

At the University of the West of Scotland, this four-year full-time programme includes a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to study education in a different national context, which is invaluable for a subject where comparative perspective reveals so much about how different societies organise learning and what assumptions underpin their systems. You will develop theoretical understanding of learning and development, examine educational policy and its social consequences, and engage with research into effective teaching, curriculum design, inclusion and equity.

You will also explore the relationship between education and broader social structures, asking how schooling reinforces or challenges inequality, how cultural background shapes educational experience and what role education plays in social mobility and civic life. Research skills and reflective professional thinking are developed throughout.

Graduates go on to careers in educational research, policy, curriculum development, educational consultancy, community education, teacher training, youth work, international development and educational publishing. Some go on to further professional qualifications in teaching or educational psychology. Others pursue postgraduate study in education, social policy or related fields.