Welcome

Join our pioneering international Masters course in Teacher Education to develop teacher educators’ practice whilst ‘on the job’.  The course is specifically for those involved in training and educating other teachers in both pre-service and in-service teacher education. The course, covering specialisms in English, History, Mathematics, Science, Geography, Modern Foreign Language and Religious Education, is designed to be integral to the participants’ day-to-day practice as teacher educators and blends online learning with two residential components in Oxford.  This two-year part time course is a world first, bringing together teacher educators in the UK, EU and internationally.

This course provides an Oxford University masters-level qualification for anyone involved in pre-service and in-service teacher education:

  • school-based teacher educators, coaches and mentors.
  • university  tutors involved in teacher education such as university tutors on taught education programmes or based in university subject departments with some teacher education responsibilities.
  • advisory teachers and fieldworkers.
  • professional development providers.

Why Oxford?

  • Oxford is a world leader in teacher education.
  • Outstanding academic credibility, introducing you to research literature and research processes, while maintaining a practical focus related closely to your own work in your context.
  • Extensive expertise and knowledge in the use of English as the medium of instruction in international contexts.

 

WATCH: Student Rachel Robinson on why to choose this course.

The course

All over the world school teachers undergo pre-service teacher education before entering the teaching professional.  Many undergo further in-service teacher education.  Yet what training and education are available to the teacher educators themselves?  There is a significant knowledge and skills base needed to be an effective and inspirational teacher educator.  This ground-breaking course offers significant, innovative and sustained education for new and experienced teacher educators.

There are three taught units, each lasting eight weeks in the first year.  In a typical week students will complete a series of tasks, the outcomes of which will be commented upon by the tutor and by peers, and there will be group discussions by Microsoft Teams.  Tasks will involve individual and group work and small projects.  All tasks will be based on readings provided or readily accessible, and on participants’ own practice.  These units last from October to December, January to March, and April to June.

During the second year the focus is on the Research and Development Project.

There will be two residential units in Oxford consisting of lectures, discussions, group work, fieldwork in schools, private study and student presentations.  Costs for accommodation and meals during these residential units are not covered by course fees. Students matriculate in absentia.

Assessment will take the form of both formative assessment and summative assessment.  Formative assessment will take place during the two residential units here in Oxford which all students are required to attend.  Summative assessment will be through written assignments, one of each of the three taught units in the first year, and the research and development project to be submitted at the end of the year.

Successful completion of all these components are required to achieve the MSc in Teacher Education.

The MSc in Teacher Education is directed by Dr Ann Childs. Watch Dr Ann Childs talk about the MSc in Teacher Education course.

Scholarships

The Department is delighted to offer a scholarship for practising educators who are enrolled on the MSc in Teacher Education course at the University of Oxford for Michaelmas Term 2024.

Find out more about the scholarship and how to apply here.

 

FAQs

What should I include in my statement of purpose and how long should it be?

Your statement of purpose should tell us why you are interested in following this particular course and how you feel that you will benefit.  You should aim to submit one to two pages, which also includes an account of your career to date and the benefits of any professional or academic learning you have undertaken.

Do I need to attend the residential units and is there an additional cost?

Yes, attendance at these residential units is a requirement of the course.  During the first residential, you will meet the tutors and your fellow students who you will be in contact with during the course.  The residentials last five days, running from Monday to Friday. Further information is provided on entry to the course.

Will I have College membership?

College affiliation is an important part of being a student at Oxford.  Students can indicate a preference for a particular college at the point of admission, but please note that there is no guarantee that you will be placed at any given College, and a place will be found for you where possible.  Find out more about the colleges and making an open application here.

How much time will I be expected to study?

This will vary but on average you should expect to be studying for the equivalent of 10 to 15 hours per week during the eight week terms.  However, some of the work can be spread out to take place between terms, and some of your task and assignment research work will take place during your normal teaching.

How will my work on the course be supported?

You will be allocated a supervisor, and be able to access the University’s VLE (Canvas) to discuss aspects of your work with other students.

Who should I choose as my referees?

You are required to provide the details of three referees on your application form.  We are looking for references from your employer, and an academic reference if possible.  Please note that, as part of the University regulations, the Graduate Admissions Office is unable to release your application to us until you have provided at least two references with your application.  Once we have received and considered your application we will then make a decision whether or not we wish to pursue the third if you have not already provided it.

Contact

Couldn’t find your answers under our FAQ section?

Please direct all enquiries to our  administrative team and they will be happy to assist you.

Phone: +44 (0)1865 274021
Email: msc.teachereducation@education.ox.ac.uk