Education is more than just teaching. It develops skills in communication, critical thinking, and community engagement, paving the way for many career opportunities beyond traditional teaching roles.
What's on this page?
Studying education extends far beyond traditional teaching roles, unlocking a skillset that can be used in many careers. It develops the skills needed for roles in educational technology, curriculum development, policy analysis, research, and program coordination.
It helps graduates to make an impact in areas such as community development, social services, and non-profit organisations, by teaching them the ability to shape learning environments, influence policies, and contribute meaningfully to society.
The impact you could make
- Influence education policies and advocate for changes that promote equity, diversity, and inclusion within educational systems.
- Develop and implement innovative technologies to enhance learning experiences.
- Contribute to educational research.
What you could study
- Children’s development and learning
- Policies and issues in education
- The learner and the learning environment
- Inclusive learning practices
- Language development
Subject Spotlights
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UCAS Media Service
Try a university course before you apply and get a taste of what it's like to study the subjects you're interested in.
Chat to a current education student
Chat to a current education student using UniBuddy.
Some conversation starters for you:
- Ask which modules they really enjoyed.
- Find out how easy it was for them to make friends on their course.
- Do they have any tips on your personal statement?
- Did they do anything to prep for uni before they went?
- Are there books, podcasts or YouTube channels they would recommend?
Chat to students
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UCAS Media Service
Example module
"My favourite modules have been education and social change, contemporary debates in global childhood, and education viewed from the global south. I also really enjoy learning about special educational needs."
Second year education student, University of Bristol
Example assignment
“I did a report on the education system of South Africa which was interesting. I also got to travel to Thailand to teach which was incredibly exciting and eye-opening.”
Second year education studies student, Liverpool John Moores University
English
Maths
Science
Hard skills you'll develop
- Educational technology skills
- Curriculum development
- Education policy analysis
- Research methods and skills
Soft skills you'll develop
- Communication
- Empathy and compassion
- Motivational skills
- Organisational skills
Available jobs
29,339 vacancies in the past year
3.10% growth over next eight years
Average salary
£38,690
Up to £59,378
80% of students
studying education would recommend it to others
(UCAS subject guide survey 2023)
What is an… educational games designer?
An educational games designer is someone who wants to bring fun into educating! Whether they’re developing simulations that explore historical events or designing puzzles that enhance critical thinking skills, their goal is to make the learning process enjoyable and effective. They fuse creativity with educational expertise, transforming complex concepts into interactive adventures that inspire curiosity and provide meaningful knowledge.
Getting in: Entry requirements
Find out more about what you'll need to study education at university or as an apprenticeship.
Average requirements for undergraduate degrees
Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from education applicants.
A levels
BBC
Scottish Highers
ABBBC
Vocational
BTEC DMM
Other Level 3/Level 6 qualifications (e.g. Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma or SQCF Level 6) may be accepted as an alternative
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The Education Hub
Stay up-to-date with all the current conversations around education in the UK. -
TED Talks – Education
How do we reinvent education? These TED Talks explore the latest thinking — from teachers, parents, kids — on how to build a better school.
Skills, experiences, and interests to mention
- Express your commitment to continuous professional development and lifelong learning, as education is dynamic and requires a growth mindset.
- What are your long-term goals in the field of education? Show how the course aligns with those aspirations and contributes to your professional development.
- Show your awareness and appreciation of cultural diversity, emphasising the importance of creating inclusive learning environments.
- Give examples where you demonstrated adaptability and flexibility, as these qualities are crucial in navigating the dynamic and diverse nature of educational environments.