Top UK Universities For Education - Ranking & League Table (2024)
Whether you aspire to be an educator, work in academics or work on education policies in the government sector, a degree of Education is your pathway to achieving your dream job. The UK is renowned for quality, globally recognised degrees in Education and in this guide, we’ll explore the top universities offering courses in Education.
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UK University League Table for Education (2024)
The University League Table for Education below displays the top-ranking universities for studying Education in the UK. We’ve compiled a list of universities you should look out for, based on UK and global rankings, as well as entry requirements.
What do you Study in Education?
Careers for Education Graduates
What jobs can you apply for with a degree in Education? Many graduates find employment taking on various roles such as:
- Teacher: Teach at elementary, primary, or secondary schools, specialising in a particular subject or grade level.
- School Administrator: Work as a principal, vice-principal, or other administrative roles within schools.
- Education Consultant: Provide expert advice and guidance to schools, educational organisations, or government agencies on curriculum development, instructional strategies, and educational policies.
- Curriculum Developer: Design and develop educational materials, lesson plans, and curriculum frameworks for schools, publishers, or educational technology companies.
- Educational Researcher: Conduct research studies on various aspects of education, such as learning theories, teaching methods, or education policy, often working in universities, research institutions, or government agencies.
- Education Policy Analyst: Analyse education policies and their impact on schools, students, and communities, working for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy organizations.
- College or University Faculty: Teach courses in education or related fields at colleges and universities, conducting research and mentoring students.
- School Counselor: Provide academic, career, and personal counseling to students in schools, helping them navigate academic and personal challenges.
Top Education Degrees In The UK
The number one ranked university in the UK for Education degrees is the University of Cambridge. The top ranked university emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration and research-driven approaches to pedagogy. Drawing on insights from diverse fields such as psychology, sociology, neuroscience, and technology, Cambridge equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to address complex educational challenges and drive meaningful change in classrooms, schools, and educational systems worldwide.
Taking the number 2 spot is the University of Manchester that has a top tier, globally recognised education department. The course specialises in helping students enhance their analytical grasp of how education tackles significant global challenges, including social inequality, childhood mental health, literacy, and lifelong learning.
Recommended Education Courses In The UK
Durham University offers a top-notch education degree programme that explores diverse aspects of learning and education globally. With modules covering historical foundations, contemporary issues, and research methods, students gain critical insights into education’s role in society. The flexible curriculum allows for interdisciplinary study, preparing graduates for careers in teaching, research, policy-making, and more. With an emphasis on relevant research and real-world application, students develop a deep understanding of education’s impact on individuals and society.
The BA Education degree at the University of Nottingham offers a comprehensive exploration of formal and informal education across various disciplines such as sociology, psychology, philosophy, history, and politics. The course encourages critical thinking by challenging established educational norms and exploring key issues like social justice, inclusion, alternative education, and mental health. Students also examine contemporary topics such as learning in the digital age and global education. A standout feature of the degree is a placement module, offering hands-on experience to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world educational settings, thereby enhancing learning and strengthening students’ CVs for increased competitiveness in the job market.
How To Apply To Study Education In The UK?
Step 1: Choose A University
The first step is to look for popular and high-ranking Universities in the UK that offer courses you are interested in. Refer to the table above to start your search. Here are some things to consider when applying:
- Location
- Employability/Graduate prospects
- Fees
- Entry requirements
- University Ranking
Step 2: Preparations
Once you have narrowed down the search to your top five universities, the first step is to prepare necessary documents and forms. This includes school leaving certificates, exam results, the UCAS application form and a written Personal Statement, among other documents that may be required.
Step 3: Submit UCAS Application
The application process for UK universities differs from local universities as applications go through an organisation known as UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS handles all admission applications to UK universities, including those submitted by international candidates like you.
To ensure a better chance of getting accepted, it is important that you prepare all the necessary documents and fill out all forms correctly. We also recommend that you apply for multiple universities simultaneously to ensure that you get your preferred offers. Read our full guide on UCAS here.
More about UCAS
The entire application process might be daunting and lengthy for some, so let us help you. Make a free appointment with us today for professional assistance in submitting applications to your preferred UK universities.
UK Education Degree Entry Requirements
Here are some of the common entry requirements and tests a student has to pass before being accepted at a UK university to study Education.
- English Language Test requirement – such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland for Scottish Universities)
- Health checks.
- Entrance interviews.
- Personal statement. This is a supporting document and part of your application to a UK university. Usually, you will write about what you hope to achieve studying at the course, what you plan to do after graduating and why you are applying for this specific university.
Frequently Asked Questions
In an education, you’ll study a wide range of topics including educational psychology, curriculum design, classroom management, assessment methods, and educational technology. You’ll also explore theories of learning and teaching, examine the social and cultural contexts of education, and gain practical experience through teaching placements or internships. The curriculum is designed to prepare you for a career in teaching, educational leadership, research, or related fields, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to make a positive impact in educational settings.
The number 1 university for Education in the UK is the University of Cambridge according to 2024 rankings.
The common entry requirements for studying Education in the UK include English language tests, criminal record declarations, health checks, entrance interviews and submission of a personal statement.
The tuition fees for Education degrees in the UK range between £20,000 to £28,000 per annum for international students, depending on the university. The ranking and location of a university might also affect tuition fee costs.
The UCAS deadline for Education programmes is 15 January on the year of admission. Do take note that the deadline for Oxford and Cambridge is 15 October.
Get Free Application Assistance For UK Education Degrees
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