MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
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BA (Hons) Education Studies
Twickenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Education Studies at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, is a comprehensive and engaging undergraduate degree designed for individuals passionate about understanding the profound impact of education on individuals, societies, and global communities. This program moves beyond traditional notions of teaching to explore the multifaceted nature of education in various contexts, from formal schooling to informal learning environments, youth work, and policy development. Students critically examine key issues such as social justice, equality, inclusion, and educational disadvantage through the lens of real-world case studies. The degree fosters strong analytical, research, and critical thinking skills, equipping graduates to contribute meaningfully to diverse fields, including educational policy, social work, welfare, and roles working with children and families. Work experience opportunities are integrated into modules, providing practical insights and enhancing employability.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Education Studies is structured to provide a progressive and in-depth understanding of educational theories, practices, and policies. In the first year, core modules lay a strong foundation, covering topics such as "Purposes and Values in Education," "Introduction to Special Education Needs, Disability and Inclusion," "Citizenship, Education and Children's Rights," "History of Education," "Skills for Independent Learning and Employability," and "Teaching and Learning – Theory Into Practice." As students advance, the second year delves deeper with core modules like "Critical Perspectives on Childhood and Youth" and "Doing Social Science Research," alongside optional modules such as "Disability in Schools and Society," "Experience and Employment in Education," "Health and Wellbeing," and "The Primary Classroom: A Practical Approach." The final year culminates in a significant "Dissertation" or "Independent Study," allowing for specialised research, complemented by core modules like "International Perspectives in Education" and "Planning and Assessment for Learning," and optional modules such as "Education and Popular Culture," "Managing in the Workplace," and "The Enterprising Workplace."
Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Education Studies program at St. Mary's University is deeply informed by contemporary research and ongoing developments within the field of education. The School of Education, which houses the program, is a vibrant research community with academics actively publishing in peer-reviewed international journals and participating in global conferences. Their research aims to influence education policy, pedagogical understanding, and outcomes for children and young people, focusing on areas such as teacher wellbeing, mental health support for students, social justice, inclusion, and diversity. Students are encouraged to develop robust research skills through modules like "Doing Social Science Research" and ultimately undertake their own original research project in the final year dissertation. This focus ensures that students engage with cutting-edge ideas and develop the capacity to contribute to the evidence base informing educational practice and policy.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key component of the BA (Hons) Education Studies program at St. Mary's University, designed to provide students with practical experience and enhance their career prospects. The university actively integrates work experience placement opportunities within a variety of educational and community settings, including schools, early years settings, youth organisations, and charities. These placements allow students to gain valuable insights, apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, and build professional networks. Furthermore, the program organises workshops with industry professionals who discuss key developments in the field of education, policy, and related professions. Students also have opportunities to participate in field trips and industry visits, linking their academic learning directly to the world of work and helping them clarify their professional goals.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Education Studies program at St. Mary's University fosters a strong global perspective by exploring educational issues, policies, and practices within an international context. The curriculum includes a core module on "International Perspectives in Education," which encourages students to compare and contrast educational systems and challenges across different cultures and nations. Students engage with global themes such as social justice, educational disadvantage, and inclusion from a worldwide viewpoint, understanding how global forces impact local educational contexts. Additionally, students have opportunities to study abroad in Europe or the USA during their second year, further enriching their understanding of international education systems and gaining invaluable cross-cultural insights. This global outlook prepares graduates to work in diverse educational settings and to address complex educational challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.
Location
Twickenham
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17100
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 55.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
St. Mary’s University Twickenham offers a variety of scholarships to support international students in financing their education and rewarding academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden and recognize the talents and hard work of students coming from all over the world.
International Student Scholarships: St. Mary’s provides International Student Scholarships for students from a range of countries. These scholarships are typically partial fee reductions, aimed at making education more affordable. Eligible students are selected based on academic merit, financial need, and their potential to contribute to the university community. The scholarships are open to both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards available to international students at St. Mary’s University. This scholarship offers a significant reduction in tuition fees for high-achieving students, with eligibility determined by academic performance and specific course requirements. Students from a variety of regions, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, are encouraged to apply for this highly competitive scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, St. Mary’s offers country-specific scholarships for students from certain regions. These scholarships provide additional financial assistance and are designed to support students from areas where educational opportunities may be limited. International students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas are often eligible for these specialized scholarships.
Sports Scholarships: For students excelling in sports, St. Mary’s University provides Sports Scholarships. These awards are available to talented athletes who demonstrate the potential to represent the university in competitive sports. Sports scholars benefit from personalized coaching, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and financial support to help balance academic and athletic commitments.
The BA (Hons) Education Studies at St. Mary's University, Twickenham, provides graduates with a broad and critical understanding of education beyond the classroom, encompassing its theories, policies, and impact on individuals and society. This degree cultivates essential transferable skills such as critical thinking, research, communication, and an understanding of child development and social issues, making graduates highly sought after in diverse sectors that value knowledge of learning, welfare, and social change.
Education Policy Analyst: Graduates can work for government bodies, think tanks, or non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to research, analyse, and evaluate educational policies and initiatives. Their role is to inform decision-making and advocate for improvements within the education system.
Educational Researcher: These professionals design and conduct studies to investigate various aspects of teaching, learning processes, and educational outcomes. Graduates contribute to evidence-based practices that inform the future of education in academic institutions or research organisations.
Youth Worker / Youth Development Officer: Graduates can work directly with young people in community centres, schools, or youth organisations, supporting their personal, social, and educational development. They design and deliver programmes that promote positive youth outcomes and address specific challenges.
Family Support Worker: With an understanding of child development, social issues, and welfare, graduates can provide crucial support to families facing various difficulties. They often work with parents and carers to enhance their engagement with their child's education and well-being.
Education Outreach Coordinator: This role involves bridging the gap between educational institutions and the wider community. Graduates organise outreach programmes, develop partnerships with local organisations, and facilitate workshops to promote access to quality education and foster community engagement.
Learning Mentor / Academic Advisor: Working within schools, colleges, or universities, graduates can support students' academic progress, address learning barriers, and provide guidance on educational and career pathways. They mentor students on issues ranging from punctuality to study skills.
Charity Officer / Project Manager (Education-focused NGOs): Graduates can find rewarding roles in the charity sector, working for organisations focused on educational equality, child welfare, or community development. They might manage educational projects, coordinate volunteers, or assist with fundraising initiatives.
Teaching Assistant (TA) / Learning Support Assistant (LSA): While not a qualified teaching role without further training, a BA in Education Studies provides an excellent foundation for supporting pupils in schools, especially those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). They assist teachers and provide direct support to students in the classroom.
Human Resources (HR) Specialist (Training & Development): Leveraging their understanding of learning and development, graduates can work in corporate or public sector HR departments. They design and deliver training programmes for employees, identify skill gaps, and contribute to professional development initiatives.
Careers Adviser: Graduates can provide information, advice, and guidance to individuals of all ages, helping them make informed choices about their education, training, and work opportunities. This role is often found in schools, colleges, universities, or local authority career services.
