Ranking
64th
in the world for Education
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Course overview
Advance your teaching career with our MA in Education (Learning and Teaching). Explore research-based insights to transform classroom experience and implement innovative teaching practice that inspire student success.
The course shapes and empowers educators with advanced teaching strategies and research skills, enabling them to innovate in the classroom, enhance student outcomes, and become a leader in education.
Here is a short overview of what you can expect during this course.
Leadership for School Improvement
This module examines leadership and teamwork as essential drivers of school improvement. You'll explore the qualities and strategies required for effective school leadership, with a focus on development planning, managing change, and improving schools, informed by research and practices from the UK, UAE, and internationally.
Course highlights
This programme is a flexible and research-driven programme designed for those with an existing teacher certification, currently employed in education wanting to elevate their study themes relevant to learning and teaching at master’s level.
It integrates pedagogical research with practical application, allowing you to refine your teaching methods and develop innovative strategies that enhance student learning. You’ll benefit from a blend of theory and practice, tailored to your professional context, and supported by international educational frameworks. This course empowers you to become a transformative educator, ready to drive meaningful change in any global and diverse educational setting.
- Accredited by UAE Ministry of Education, providing recognised qualifications aligned with both regional and global educational standards.
- Part-time, research-informed programme designed for working professionals, blending theory with practical applications in leadership.
- Engage with a research-focused community, exploring cutting-edge research and reflecting on professional practice, pedagogy, and assessment.
- Build skills in rigorous and critical analysis of research and practice within diverse international educational contexts.
- Top 100
Gain a globally recognised teaching certificate that's accredited by a top 100 UK University
Develop as a teaching professional while studying in the UAE
Build high-demand skills aligned with UK and UAE standards, enhancing career prospects with employers.
Drive meaningful change in any educational setting as a transformative educator
The MA in Education (Learning and Teaching) is designed for practising educators seeking to enhance their teaching practice through research-driven insights and innovative strategies. This part-time programme combines modern pedagogy with practical application, allowing you to refine your approach in the classroom. Immerse yourself in a diverse, international community and learn from leading academics while balancing your professional commitments. The programme’s flexible structure and focus on critical analysis prepare you to make a meaningful impact in diverse educational contexts, both locally and globally.
This programme has been accredited by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education
Course delivery
Teaching is led by expert academics and school leaders, delivered through a combination of evening classes and monthly Saturday meetings, designed to accommodate working professionals.
- Designed for working professionals, with evening classes and monthly Saturday sessions to accommodate your busy schedule.
- Learn from leading academics and research-informed community as they challenge and help you develop rigorous and critical analysis.
- Programme modules focus on developing your skills in effective curriculum design and collaborative leadership, with a strong emphasis on teamwork, mentoring, and research application.
Module information
The programme consists of 120 credits of study over two years on a part-time basis, including a 60 credit Master's Dissertation.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum development and research | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Dissertation | 60 | Full Term |
| Learning, teaching and research | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Prior Educational Learning | 60 |
Students need to select one module from the following:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Cross-Cultural Issues in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Curriculum and Approaches for Pupils with Autism (Campus) | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Education Policy and Improving Schools | 20 | |
| LM Evaluation and Policy Analysis for Inclusive Education | 20 | |
| LM Improving Classroom Achievement (Distance Education) | 20 | |
| LM Inclusion: Individual and Group Differences | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Leadership for School Improvement | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Social, Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties and Mental Health: Identification, Assessment & Provision | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Special Educational Needs of Pupils with Autism (Dubai-Blended) | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Team work and mentoring | 20 | |
| LM Understanding School Improvement | 20 | Semester 1 |
Teaching staff
Philip Anderson
Assistant Professor
Phil Anderson is an Assistant Professor at the University of Birmingham Dubai in the School of Education.
Entry requirements
To secure your place at the University of Birmingham Dubai, you must meet both our general entry requirements and the specific criteria for your chosen course. Your application will be carefully reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will determine if you will receive an offer.
A degree (equivalent to a UK Bachelors Degree of at least 2:2 or above) or a recognised equivalent qualification and this will be a condition of any offer where the degree has not already been awarded.
All applicants must be working in an educational setting for the duration of the programme. To be considered by the University of Birmingham you will also need to meet our general entry requirements:
A degree (equivalent to a UK Bachelors Degree of at least 2:2 or above) or a recognised equivalent qualification and this will be a condition of any offer where the degree has not already been awarded.
60 postgraduate credits of prior learning or certification (Please see APL guidance below).
Two references, of which one must be academic (e.g. previous university tutor) and one professional, that confirms your current role in an educational setting and evidences your motivation and ability to study.
A Personal Statement (minimum 500 - 700 words) on your motivation for and commitment to this programme of study as well as information about your leadership experience in an educational context. You should refer to any leadership programmes you have attended, any Master’s level credits already awarded, any mentoring experience you have gained and/or your involvement in school projects that demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of leadership in an educational context. (Guidance may be found below)
If English is not your first language you may need to demonstrate proficiency in English through the completion of an academic level IELTS or equivalent. You should achieve a score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6 in each of the four areas of reading, writing, listening and speaking.
English language requirements
In order to undertake a programme of study here at the University, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English. You can demonstrate your level of English with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation.
- AED 36,631
For those starting in January 2025. If you are starting in September 2025 the fee will be AED 39,745
Paying your tuition fees
We charge an annual tuition fee. The fees quoted are by full time or part time per year of study. For those studying courses over two or more years, the tuition fee will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Tuition fees can be paid in full or in three instalments per year of study.
Scholarships
Birmingham attracts the best and brightest students from across the globe. For students with the potential to thrive here, we have a number of scholarships available at our Dubai campus.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Career opportunities
The MA Education (Learning and Teaching) from the University of Birmingham Dubai equips you with the skills and knowledge to excel in a range of educational careers. Whether advancing in teaching, leadership, or pursuing a PhD, this qualification is highly valued by employers for its focus on research-driven practice, critical analysis, and practical application. You'll stand out for your problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and cultural awareness in diverse educational settings.
Be in high demand with employers, building a wide range of professional skills linked to UK and UAE standards.
- Number 1 Targeted University
Number 1 targeted University by top employers in 2023-24
Graduate market in 2024 High Fliers Report
Careers Network
In a competitive global market, you need to be ready for work before you graduate. At the University of Birmingham Dubai, our careers services will help you plan and achieve your ambitions. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network Dubai information, advice, and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Student experience
At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life at our Dubai campus.
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus, with its iconic buildings overlooking stunning parkland and friendly community, will quickly make you feel at home in the UAE's second city. Expect plenty of exciting activities to get involved in outside of your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to the University of Birmingham Dubai to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation partners allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming, and sociable surroundings.
Living in Dubai
Enrich your life with endless attractions, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities. In just over 50 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a tiny settlement to a glistening city and world-class destination. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.
Campus life
Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus is where our diverse community comes together, providing a home for up to 3,000 students to learn, relax, and socialise.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our Dubai campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.