BA Hons Education & English

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Strathclyde

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Education & English at the University of Strathclyde combines in-depth literary study with educational theory, ideal for students who want to develop strong analytical and communication skills while understanding learning and teaching. It suits those interested in literature, writing, and education, preparing them for careers in teaching, publishing, or research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students are introduced to core modules in English, including literature from different historical periods and genres, while developing academic writing and analytical skills. Education modules focus on childhood development, social and cultural influences on learning, and include early school placements to provide practical exposure to teaching environments.

Year 2

Year two deepens literary knowledge with modules such as Shakespeare, Poetry, and Modern Fiction, alongside Education studies examining learning across the lifespan and inclusive education. Students may also choose optional modules that allow them to explore specialised areas of literature or pedagogical practice.

Year 3

In the third year, students engage with advanced literature modules, including thematic or period-based studies, and develop critical and analytical skills for independent research. Education modules focus on teaching methodologies, curriculum design, and research-led practice, with opportunities for placements or applied projects in schools.

Year 4

The final year allows students to complete a dissertation or extended project in English literature, combining research, analysis, and critical thinking. Education modules include advanced topics in teaching, curriculum, and comparative education, preparing graduates for professional pathways or postgraduate study.

Focus Areas:

English literature, literary analysis, creative writing, educational theory, learning across the lifespan, curriculum development, research skills, inclusive education.

Learning Outcomes:

Graduates will be able to critically analyse literature, understand educational theory and practice, design effective learning strategies, conduct independent research, and communicate effectively in academic and professional contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The degree prepares students for postgraduate teacher training (PGDE) and provides a strong foundation for careers in teaching, publishing, writing, or further academic study in English or Education.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):

Graduates benefit from Strathclyde’s strong reputation in English and Education, with skills valued by employers in teaching, publishing, research, and communication-focused professions.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the BA (Hons) Education & English programme combine literary study with education theory and practical placements. They gain skills in communication, critical analysis, and teaching, while experiencing real educational contexts that enhance their understanding of learning and social development.

Experiential learning includes:

School / community placements with children and youth (age 0–14) — from Year 1, students engage with educational settings, observing and assisting in classrooms, gaining hands-on experience of teaching and child development.
Education Resources Centre — a dedicated facility providing materials, teaching aids, and support for coursework, research, and practical training in education theory and practice.
Workshops, seminars, and tutorials — interactive sessions allow students to develop teaching, presentation, and research skills in both education and English.
Literary research practice — students engage in close reading, literary analysis, creative writing, and research methods, developing critical and analytical thinking.
Independent projects and dissertation — in the final year, students complete a dissertation or project in English literature or education, fostering research skills and reflective learning.
Optional enrichment opportunities — participation in school initiatives, community projects, or creative writing events enhances professional and practical experience.

What the programme covers

English component

Year 1: Introduction to English literature and language, including reading, writing, analysis, and creative expression.
Year 2: Broader study of literature, exploring genres, periods, and themes, with optional modules in creative writing or cultural studies.
Year 3: Advanced literature and language modules, including critical approaches, theory, and in-depth study of selected texts.
Year 4 (Honours): Students undertake a dissertation or major project in English, with the freedom to explore specific literary or creative interests in depth.

Education component

Year 1: Foundational topics in education, including how social, cultural, and community factors influence learning; includes a placement with children.
Year 2: Studies learning across life stages, informal education, and optional education-focused modules.
Year 3: Community-based placements, adult education studies, and training in educational research methods.
Year 4: Advanced study of social justice, inclusion, policy, or representations of education, alongside a dissertation or major project.
Teaching combines lectures, seminars, small-group discussions, workshops, and research tasks to develop analytical, communicative, and practical skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Education & English gain expertise in English language and literature alongside professional educational training, preparing them for careers in teaching, publishing, literacy development, or educational content creation. Many also progress to postgraduate study to specialise in teaching, English studies, or literacy programmes:

University services that support employment: Strathclyde’s Careers Service offers guidance on internships, placements, and school-based teaching experience through the Faculty’s Student Placement System. Students also benefit from mentoring, employability workshops, and study-abroad opportunities to enhance practical skills.
Employment stats & salary figures: Graduate Outcomes reporting indicates strong employability, with early-career median salaries typically ranging from £22,500–£26,500, depending on role and sector.
University–industry connections: Partnerships with local schools, publishing houses, literacy organisations, and media outlets provide practical experience and professional networking opportunities. Collaborations with educational charities and literary bodies further strengthen career readiness.
Long-term accreditation value: Graduates who wish to teach can progress to the PGDE, achieving qualified teacher status, which provides long-term professional recognition and access to career pathways in education.
Graduation outcomes (typical roles): Typical roles include Secondary or Primary Teacher (after PGDE/induction), Literacy Coordinator, Educational Content Developer, Writer/Editor, and Educational Programme Officer.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA (Hons) Education & English, students may pursue the PGDE for professional teaching qualification, taught Masters in Education, English Literature, or Literacy Studies, or research degrees (MRes/PhD) in Education, English, or Literacy Development — all designed to build professional and academic expertise.