BA (Hons) Education

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Hertfordshire

Program Overview

This three-year degree explores how people learn and how education shapes society, focusing on inclusive practice, educational policy, and human development. It’s designed for students who want to make a difference in the field of education—whether through teaching, training, community work, or educational research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your first year introduces the foundations of education and learning in today’s world. You’ll study modules such as What is Education For?, Learning for All, Education in a Digital Age, Observing Practice, and Education Now: Contemporary Issues in Education. This stage helps you understand the purpose of education, analyse global and local educational issues, and gain hands-on observation experience in real learning environments.

Year 2:
In your second year, you’ll explore key topics like curriculum design, inclusion, and educational development. Core modules include Curriculum and Assessment, Education and Inequality, Neurodiversity and Autism, Human Development, and Work-Based Enquiry. You’ll apply theoretical learning to practical contexts and start developing research skills while deepening your understanding of inclusive and equitable education.

Year 3:
Your final year allows you to specialise in an area of education that aligns with your interests and career goals. You’ll choose from pathways such as Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), Mental Health and Wellbeing, or Learning and Teaching. Alongside this, you’ll complete Designing an Education Project, Developing a Professional Identity, and an independent Research Project. This year focuses on professional growth, critical thinking, and preparing for your next career step or postgraduate study.

Focus areas:
Education theory and practice · Inclusion and diversity · Curriculum and assessment · Mental health and wellbeing · SEND · Educational technology · Research and professional identity

Learning outcomes:
You’ll graduate with the ability to analyse and evaluate educational systems, apply inclusive teaching principles, conduct independent research, and design effective learning environments. You’ll also develop strong professional, analytical, and communication skills essential for roles across education and related fields.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
While this programme does not include Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), it provides an excellent foundation for postgraduate teacher training (such as a PGCE) or careers in educational support, youth work, policy development, or training.

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of Hertfordshire is widely recognised for its practical approach to learning and strong links with the education sector. Graduates from this course benefit from excellent career outcomes and the university’s commitment to developing confident, skilled professionals ready to impact the field of education.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Hertfordshire, the BA (Hons) Education course is designed to blend theory with practice — helping you understand how education works in real settings while developing the professional skills needed for a wide range of careers. From the very beginning, you’ll engage in hands-on activities, fieldwork, and reflective learning that connects academic concepts to real-world experiences. Students explore how learning takes place in schools, communities, and other educational spaces, supported by a team of experienced lecturers and access to excellent campus facilities.

Here’s how experiential learning comes to life throughout the course:

Work-based learning and field placements: You’ll have opportunities to experience educational settings such as schools, youth centres, and community organisations to see how education impacts people’s lives beyond the classroom.
Practice-focused modules: Modules like Observing Practice and What is Education For? encourage you to apply theory through observation, group discussions, and reflective projects.
Independent research project: In your final year, you’ll design and lead your own education-based research or community project, giving you strong evidence of your professional and academic development.
Collaborative learning and group work: Students work on projects together, developing teamwork, leadership, and communication skills valued in the education sector.
Digital learning tools: You’ll gain confidence using online research databases, e-learning environments, and academic software that prepare you for modern education and research roles.
Specialist support and facilities: The University’s Learning Resources Centre provides access to extensive educational journals, research materials, and digital study spaces to support your independent learning.

Overall, the course gives you the freedom to explore education from social, cultural, and psychological perspectives — all while building practical skills that will help you make a real difference in the world of learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

If you’re passionate about understanding how people learn, shaping educational experiences, and influencing future learning environments, the BA (Hons) Education at the University of Hertfordshire is an excellent choice. The course provides a deep understanding of education systems, policies, and practices, preparing you for a range of meaningful careers in learning and development. Graduates often move into roles such as learning support practitioner, education officer, youth and community educator, or training and development coordinator.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

University services: The University of Hertfordshire offers dedicated support through its Herts Careers and Employment Service, which provides one-to-one career advice, employability workshops, and placement assistance. Students also benefit from personal academic tutors and professional development guidance throughout the course.
Employment stats and salary figures: Graduates from education-related degrees at Hertfordshire enjoy strong employment rates, with most securing professional or postgraduate roles within 15 months of graduation. The average graduate salary is around £25,000–£28,000, depending on the role and sector.
University–industry partnerships: The course includes real-world learning opportunities through placements and volunteering in schools, local councils, or community education projects. These experiences help students build confidence, professional skills, and valuable industry connections.
Long-term accreditation value: The BA (Hons) Education is a nationally recognised qualification within the UK’s higher education framework, ensuring long-term credibility in the education and training sector.
Graduation outcomes: By graduation, you’ll have developed strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills that make you well suited to roles across education, social services, and training sectors, or prepared for teacher training if you wish to specialise further.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your BA (Hons) Education, you can progress to a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) to gain Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), or pursue a Master’s in Education, Inclusive Education, or Educational Leadership. These advanced qualifications open pathways to leadership, policy-making, and academic research roles within the education sector.