Our research strengths lie in curriculum studies, early years, leadership and diversity in education, learning for sustainability and professional development. We also have expertise in education policy, extremism and education and values in education.

Our School of Education and Applied Sciences provides a stimulating and supportive environment with a blend of extensive professional expertise in different learning contexts – spanning early years to higher education.

You’ll join a strong education research community of over 30 academic staff with different supervisory specialisms. Progress your knowledge and skills with engaged researchers who are pushing forward new knowledge and professional practice. Explore strengths in curriculum studies, early years, leadership and diversity in education, and professional development.

RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT

Our research environment has strong national and international links. This active background means that research students, whether studying full-time or part-time, join a group of engaged researchers involved in pushing forward both new knowledge and professional practice.

All students are required to take and complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Research Methods to support the development of their project and their education as researchers.

Research areas

Some of our recent research includes:

• the application of constructivist learning theory to homework practice
• how coursework and exam-based study affect the learning of pupils in secondary science education
• primary trainee teachers’ choice of mathematical examples for learning and the relationship with mathematics subject knowledge
• pedagogy to enhance teaching and learning in science and environmental education within Initial Teacher Education
• the role of support workers in the learning of students with disabilities in higher education.

This research contributes to the research priority area Society and Learning.

• MA or MSc by Research/MRes

  • At least a 2.1 honours degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject area

• PhD

  • A master’s degree or equivalent in a subject area relevant to the proposed research topic.

• Applications from a range of diverse backgrounds

  • We actively encourage applications from students from a range of diverse backgrounds who demonstrate appropriate research experience and achievement.

• IELTS 6.5 (6.0 writing, 5.5 all other components)

  • EU and international students need IELTS 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in any other component) or equivalent.

• Research proposal

  • Please provide a copy of your research proposal. This should be 1,000 words (excluding references and appendices) following the structure outlined in this research proposal guide.

    Please note; we’re unable to process applications without a proposal for the School’s consideration. Not supplying one will delay the processing of applications.