MSc Education

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence. 

Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.

Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship offers substantial funding to international postgraduate students from certain countries, including the USA, India, Vietnam, and EU nations. The scholarship covers part of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit and potential for success.

Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.

Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships provide funding for postgraduate students who would otherwise be unable to study in the UK. The scholarship includes full tuition, living expenses, and airfare, ensuring accessibility for students from developing nations.

British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.

Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.

Graduates of the MSc Education program from Cardiff University can pursue a wide range of career opportunities in the education sector and related fields. The program provides a strong foundation in educational theory, research, and practical application, opening doors to diverse roles in schools, universities, government organizations, and the private sector.

Educational Leadership: Many graduates of the MSc Education program move into leadership roles within educational institutions, such as schools, colleges, and universities. These roles can include positions such as headteacher, school principal, or educational administrator. Graduates with a passion for improving educational outcomes and shaping the direction of educational policy can work as educational leaders, overseeing school operations, managing staff, and implementing effective teaching strategies.

Curriculum Developer: MSc Education graduates can work as curriculum developers, designing educational programs and materials that align with the needs of students, schools, and institutions. They may develop new curricula, assessment tools, and teaching strategies that enhance the learning experience and improve student outcomes. These roles are commonly found in both public and private educational sectors, as well as in educational publishing.

Policy Analyst: Graduates with a keen interest in education policy can pursue careers as policy analysts, advising governments, think tanks, or advocacy groups on educational reforms. Policy analysts research current educational issues, evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies, and provide recommendations to improve educational systems. They may focus on areas such as educational equity, funding, teacher development, or inclusion.

Teacher/Instructor: Many MSc Education graduates choose to continue their teaching careers, moving into specialized roles or advancing into higher education teaching. Some may become subject-specific instructors in secondary schools or universities, while others may teach adult education or specialized programs in areas such as professional development or vocational training. With advanced qualifications, graduates are often eligible for roles in higher education, teaching undergraduate or postgraduate students.

Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO): Graduates with an interest in supporting students with additional learning needs can pursue careers as Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCO). These professionals work in schools to assess and support students with special educational needs, ensuring they receive appropriate accommodations and resources. SENCOs also collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to create individualized education plans (IEPs) for students.

Educational Consultant: MSc Education graduates can work as educational consultants, providing expert advice to schools, educational organizations, and government agencies. Consultants help develop strategies to improve teaching practices, enhance learning environments, and implement educational reforms. They may work independently or as part of a consultancy firm, offering services such as staff training, curriculum reviews, and educational assessments.

Researcher in Education: With a strong emphasis on research in the MSc Education program, graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in educational research. They may work for research organizations, universities, or policy think tanks, conducting studies on educational practices, pedagogy, or student outcomes. Researchers in education often contribute to publications, report findings, and provide insights that influence education policies and practices.

Training and Development Manager: MSc Education graduates can also pursue careers in corporate training and development, where they design and implement training programs for employees in various sectors. These roles involve creating learning materials, delivering training sessions, and assessing the effectiveness of training programs. Many industries, including healthcare, technology, and finance, require professional development programs that graduates of the MSc Education program are well-prepared to deliver.

Education Consultant for International Organizations: With a global perspective embedded in the MSc Education program, graduates may work with international organizations such as UNESCO, UNICEF, or the World Bank. These roles involve advising on educational projects, developing strategies for education systems in developing countries, and working on international educational initiatives. Graduates may help address challenges such as access to education, educational inequality, and curriculum development across diverse cultural contexts.

Learning and Development Specialist: Many graduates take on roles as Learning and Development Specialists, working within large corporations, non-profits, or government agencies to improve employee learning and development. They design training programs, provide coaching, and help organizations improve their educational offerings for staff, focusing on improving skills, leadership capabilities, and career development.

Higher Education Administrator: Graduates can work in higher education administration, managing student services, admissions, and academic departments at colleges or universities. These roles involve overseeing student support services, such as counseling and career advice, as well as supporting faculty in their teaching and research efforts. Higher education administrators play a crucial role in maintaining the smooth operation of academic institutions.

Adult and Community Education Leader: For those passionate about lifelong learning, MSc Education graduates can work in adult and community education, helping to deliver educational programs to non-traditional learners. These programs can include vocational education, literacy courses, or professional development training. Graduates may work in community centers, libraries, or local government, fostering education opportunities for adults and marginalized groups.

Nonprofit and Charity Sector Roles: Graduates may also choose to work for nonprofit organizations or charities focused on educational advocacy or community education. These organizations aim to address educational disparities, provide resources to underserved communities, or promote literacy and adult education. In these roles, graduates contribute to developing educational programs and policies that improve access to quality education for all.