A Master's in Education is a valuable degree sought by those who wish to qualify academically for key positions within the education sector. It trains future educators and people who aim to perform pivotal educational roles such as teaching, administering, leading, developing policy, or consulting.
UK education master's degrees offer a blend of theory and practice, focusing on contemporary methodology and technologies. They usually last one or two years, depending on whether they are full-time, part-time, or offer a placement year. You can choose to study a master of arts, master of science, or master of education degree in the subject.
Learn about the top five universities for a master's in education below (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024: Education) and book your free consultation to apply with SI-UK today.
The Best UK Universities for a Master's in Education
1. University College London
University College London (UCL) is a top 10 UK university that offers excellent teaching with a focus on research in its postgraduate education studies courses. Students will study topics such as curriculum, pedagogy, the relationship between education and society, and the importance of education research while being encouraged to relate these to their contexts. There are over 20 optional modules, such as education and development in Asia and early childhood education.
Graduates have succeeded in various educational contexts, including promotion to senior roles, joining education policy, research or PhD programmes.
Course in focus: MA in Education
QS world ranking: 1st
2. University of Oxford
One of the world’s most prestigious universities, the University of Oxford needs no introduction and offers interesting postgraduate programmes in education. Students focus on the issues faced in higher education globally today, educational research methods, international higher education systems, and their economic impacts from theoretical, historical, and empirical perspectives.
After completing the course, students have pursued academic and research careers at various universities in the UK and worldwide and have been employed in various sectors, such as policy for government departments and NGOs, international organisations, think tanks, and administration at local and national levels.
Course in focus: MSc in Education (Higher Education)
QS world ranking: 4th
3. University of Cambridge
Another world-leading academic institute ranked number one in the UK, the University of Cambridge offers outstanding teaching and individual support to students. The Faculty of Education offers research-focused, interactive teaching with a national and international perspective. Students will redefine conventional notions and study a broad view of educational leadership, seeing learning as a shared enterprise and school improvement concerning practice, policy and theory.
Students go on to pursue research careers or an MPhil at the University and are employed in excellent positions in sectors ranging from policy to local and national administration.
Course in focus: M.Ed. in Education (Educational Leadership and School Improvement)
QS world ranking: 5th
4. University of Edinburgh
One of Scotland’s top universities, the University of Edinburgh, offers quality teaching in its Moray House School of Education and Sport. The school’s flagship postgraduate degree in education can be studied as a general degree in the subject or chosen as a specialist pathway to enhance their knowledge of a particular area within education. Students will study key educational challenges from theoretical, policy and practice perspectives. Specialist pathways include Comparative Education & International Development, Early Childhood Practice and Research.
Graduate careers include working in research, education policy, administration, international recruitment, community education and as advisors to politicians on educational matters.
Course in focus: MSc in Education
QS world ranking: 12th
5. King’s College London
King’s College London's School of Education, Communication, and Society is globally known for its research and teaching excellence in education. The programmes offered suit educators across all sectors and those interested in education studies.
Students will critically examine the social, political and philosophical trends underpinning contemporary developments in education while reflecting on their educational roles. Students will also explore educational policies and practices in national and international contexts.
Course in focus: MA in Education
QS world ranking: 21st
Master's in Education Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for a Master's in Education (MEd or related courses) in the UK typically include a bachelor’s degree in Education, a related discipline, or any subject (depending on the course), usually with a minimum 2:1 or 2:2 honours classification. For some courses, professional qualifications or equivalent experience in teaching or education can be accepted instead of a degree. An IELTS score of 6.5–7.0 overall (with no individual band below 6.0–6.5) or equivalent is usually required.
Many MEd courses, particularly specialised ones (e.g., TESOL or Leadership), require professional experience in education, such as teaching or other relevant roles, typically for 1–3 years.
Study a Master's in Education in the UK
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FAQs
Is a master's in education worth it in the UK?
Pursuing a master's in education in the UK can enhance career prospects, deepen subject knowledge, and open up leadership opportunities in the education sector.
What type of career support services do these universities provide for education graduates?
Career support services for education graduates at these universities often include counselling, networking events, workshops, and access to job databases. Universities may also offer placement assistance and alumni connections.
Are any scholarships or financial aid options available for master's in education students?
There are many scholarships and financial aid options for master's in education students at several UK universities.
What are the potential career paths for students with a master's in education?
Potential career paths for graduates with a master's in education include roles such as educational leadership, curriculum development, teaching, educational consulting, and policy analysis within various educational settings. The degree equips individuals for leadership positions and specialised roles in the evolving field of education.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 
