BA Education Studies

Program Overview

Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) in the United Kingdom offers a dynamic BA (Hons) Education Studies degree, designed to equip students with a deep understanding of education in its broadest sense, exploring its profound impact on individuals, society, and the world. This program moves beyond just schooling, delving into how people learn, grow, and develop across their lifespans in various settings – from formal institutions like schools and universities to informal learning environments such as families, communities, and workplaces. The degree fosters critical thinking about key educational issues and challenges, enabling students to consider how education can be used to improve lives and promote social justice. Taught by experienced academics with diverse backgrounds in education, the course encourages students to explore their own passions and interests, preparing them for a wide array of careers in education, social policy, community development, and related fields.

Curriculum: The BA Education Studies curriculum at CCCU is designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of educational theory, policy, and practice. Core modules typically cover diverse facets of education, including its history, philosophy, psychology, and sociology. Students might explore modules such as "Curriculum and Pedagogy," "Global Education and Development," "Children, Young People and Society," "Educational Leadership and Management," and "Researching Education." The program encourages critical engagement with contemporary educational debates, policy formulation, and the challenges of inclusive education. Learning methods generally include lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent study, with a strong emphasis on discussion and analytical thinking. Assessments are varied, often involving essays, presentations, research projects, and portfolios, allowing students to demonstrate their understanding and apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.

Research Focus: The Education Studies program at Canterbury Christ Church University is taught by academics who are active researchers, ensuring that the curriculum is underpinned by contemporary scholarship and critical inquiry. The School of Childhood and Education Sciences is home to various research groups and centres focused on different aspects of education, such as the Centre for Research in Education, which encompasses broad research themes across education, childhood, and youth. Individual faculty research interests often include areas like educational policy, inclusive education, early childhood education, sustainable education, teacher development, educational psychology, and the sociology of education. This strong research culture means students benefit from learning informed by the latest findings and contribute to discussions at the forefront of educational discourse, enabling them to conduct their own informed research in their final year projects.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a valued aspect of the BA Education Studies program at CCCU, aimed at providing students with practical experience and enhancing their employability. While not a direct teaching qualification, the degree prepares students for careers in diverse educational and related sectors. The university encourages students to engage with professional practice through volunteering opportunities, work experience placements, and community-based projects relevant to education. These opportunities might involve working in schools, community organizations, charities focused on youth or education, or other relevant settings, allowing students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. Guest speakers from various educational and social sector organizations often contribute to the program, providing insights into current professional practices and potential career pathways, helping students to build their professional networks.

Global Perspective: The BA Education Studies program at Canterbury Christ Church University inherently incorporates a global perspective by examining educational systems, policies, and challenges on an international scale. Students explore diverse pedagogical approaches, cultural influences on learning, and global trends in educational development and reform. The curriculum addresses issues such as global inequalities in education, the role of international organizations in shaping educational policies, and the impact of globalization on learning and identity. This broad outlook prepares graduates to understand the complexities of education in an interconnected world, enabling them to pursue careers or further study that may involve working in diverse cultural contexts or contributing to international educational initiatives.