BA (Hons) Education and Learning

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Bolton

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Education and Learning programme offers a comprehensive exploration of how people learn, how educational systems operate, and how teaching and learning practices vary across contexts. It suits students who are curious about education — whether they want to go on to teacher training, work with children or young people, or engage in educational policy, research or community work.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1
In the first year, students build a foundation in educational thinking and practice. They engage with modules like Research and Study Skills, Theory and Practice of Learning, Inclusive Education, Being a Teacher, and foundational literacy and numeracy in schools. This year helps students understand key concepts in learning theory, begin reflecting on inclusion, and consider what being a teacher means in diverse environments.

Year 2
During the second year, the focus shifts to examining broader educational issues, policy and diversity. Modules such as Globalisation, Educational Issues, Developments and Policies, Learners with Additional Needs, Classroom Cultures, and a Placement give students a chance to observe real classrooms and reflect on how social, cultural and policy contexts influence learning. Through these studies and placement experience, students deepen their understanding of how education works in practice and how to support diverse learners.

Year 3
In the final year, students engage with deeper, more theoretical and research‑oriented aspects of education. Modules like Philosophy of Education, Psychology of Education, and potentially a Dissertation or research project allow them to critically examine why and how education functions — from the perspectives of philosophy, psychology and societal context. This year helps students develop analytical, reflective and research skills, preparing them for postgraduate study or professional work in education and related fields.

Focus areas:
Educational theory & philosophy; diversity, inclusion & equality in learning; policy and societal context of education; practical teaching experience; educational research and reflective practice.

Learning outcomes:
Graduates will be able to critically analyse educational theories and practices, understand the social, political and cultural contexts of learning, engage with issues of inclusion and diversity, reflect on their own educational experience and learning, conduct research relevant to education, and communicate effectively in written and spoken form.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Though the degree itself does not directly confer Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), the programme is designed to give knowledge and experience useful for entry into initial teacher education courses (such as a PGCE) or other entry-level roles in education, community work, youth work or learning support.

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Bolton emphasises student support, blended learning, practical placements and a reflective, research‑oriented approach — aspects highlighted in its course description as contributing to strong employability and further study readiness.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students studying the BA (Hons) Education and Learning at the University of Bolton benefit from a carefully designed blend of theoretical study and real-world, practice-oriented learning. From day one, the programme provides access to modern teaching environments, individualised support, and opportunities to observe and reflect on actual education practices.

Then:

Students engage in a combination of lectures, seminars, group work, and independent research, developing strong research and critical-thinking skills while applying educational theories to practical scenarios.
Students undertake at least one placement in a real educational setting, gaining direct exposure to teaching and learning in progress, observing educators, interacting with students, and reflecting on effective practices.
Assessments include reflective journals, case studies, presentations, e-discussions, and coursework, helping students develop practical communication, analysis, and planning skills.
The programme encourages reflective discussion on diverse learning experiences and backgrounds, fostering empathy, awareness of diversity, and understanding of different educational needs.
Students have access to immersive teaching facilities, including nursery-classroom setups and modern teaching spaces designed for educational courses, ensuring practical learning occurs in realistic, supportive environments.

Why This Matters — Skills & Professional Readiness
Through these practical and immersive experiences, graduates leave the university not only with knowledge of education theory, but also with real-world insight into how teaching and learning works — equipping them with communication, research, critical reflection, and interpersonal skills essential for careers in education, youth work, community outreach, and beyond.

Facilities
The University supports these experiences with dedicated teaching facilities, learning resources, and specialised education spaces designed to simulate real-world learning environments.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Education and Learning program from the University of Bolton are well-prepared for a variety of roles in the education and training sector. Typical career paths include teaching assistant, learning support officer, community education worker, and educational administrator:

The University of Bolton’s Careers and Employability Service provides tailored support including CV workshops, interview preparation, and placement opportunities.
Recent graduates have reported employment rates above 85% within six months of completing the degree, with starting salaries typically ranging from £20,000 to £28,000.
The program benefits from partnerships with local schools, colleges, and community education providers, allowing students to gain practical experience and industry connections.
Accreditation from relevant professional bodies ensures that the qualification is recognised and valued across the education sector.
Graduates often progress to roles that involve curriculum planning, educational support, and teaching-related responsibilities.

Further Academic Progression:
Students completing this program could continue their studies through postgraduate routes such as a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), a Master’s in Education, or specialist qualifications in areas like special educational needs, leadership in education, or educational psychology.