MA in Education Leadership and Management

Lead with confidence in a rapidly changing educational landscape. This online MA Education Leadership and Management will help you develop the strategic thinking, leadership skills, and professional insight needed to inspire teams, influence decision-making, and drive meaningful improvement across educational organisations.

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Time investment: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time

Location: Online

Cost: £8,000 (regional discounts available)

Language: English

About this degree

Prepare for leadership in education

Educational organisations need leaders who can navigate change, support diverse communities, and create environments where people can thrive. This online MA Education Leadership and Management helps you build the knowledge and confidence to influence practice, improve outcomes, and lead with purpose.

Combining leadership theory with research-informed practice, you’ll develop the skills needed to respond to complex challenges and make a positive impact across education.

Learn to lead people and organisations

Explore the ideas, frameworks, and policies that shape leadership in education while strengthening your ability to manage teams and drive improvement.

Through critical reflection and practical application, you’ll learn how to create inclusive cultures and support meaningful change.

You’ll also examine issues including social justice, organisational development, and the role of leadership in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Shape and mould the future of education

Whether you’re taking your first step into leadership or preparing for more senior responsibilities, this degree will help you grow as a strategic and reflective leader. You’ll graduate with the confidence to influence policy, support colleagues, and lead change within schools, colleges, charities, and other learning organisations.

Flexible online study means you can develop your leadership practice while continuing to work and apply new ideas directly to your professional context.

Where you’ll be studying

Studying at the University of Roehampton

The University of Roehampton has a long-standing reputation for excellence in education and teacher training. Through flexible online learning and dedicated support, you’ll join a global community of learners while benefiting from research-informed teaching designed to help you succeed.

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Learning outcomes

Lead organisational change

Apply leadership principles to support improvement and create more effective and inclusive educational organisations.

Shape strategic thinking

Evaluate evidence, policy, and organisational priorities to make informed decisions and influence direction.

Build high-performing teams

Develop the skills to motivate others, foster collaboration, and create positive professional cultures.

Navigate complex systems

Analyse the social, political, and organisational factors that influence educational environments and leadership practice.

Strengthen reflective practice

Critically evaluate your own leadership approach and adapt confidently to changing challenges and contexts.

Influence policy and practice

Use research and professional knowledge to support innovation and contribute to meaningful change across education.

Additional information

To join this online MA Education Leadership and Management, you'll normally need a second-class honours degree from a recognised university.

We also welcome applications from non-graduates with relevant professional experience, as well as those holding third-class honours degrees. If you're unsure whether your qualifications or experience meet the requirements, we encourage you to contact the university to discuss your application.

Previous experience in education or leadership can help you get the most from the programme, but it isn't essential. This degree is designed for aspiring and established leaders looking to develop their knowledge and progress their careers.

This programme is taught in English. If English is not your first language, you'll need to provide evidence of your proficiency through a recognised qualification obtained within the last two years.

Accepted qualifications include:
• IELTS Academic – 6.5 overall
• Roehampton English Language Test – 6.5 overall
• Kaplan Test of English – 478–509 overall
• TOEFL iBT – 89 overall
• PTE Academic – 59 overall
• Cambridge English – 176 overall

Equivalent qualifications may also be considered. If you have any questions about meeting the English language requirements, the university's admissions team will be happy to help.

Graduates from this programme develop the strategic, leadership, and research skills needed to lead people, influence practice, and drive improvement across educational organisations.

Upon completing your online MA Education Leadership and Management from the University of Roehampton, you'll be prepared to pursue a range of roles, including:

• Middle Leader (curriculum or pastoral)
• Senior Leader, including Deputy Headteacher or Headteacher
• Education Manager
• Learning and Development Manager
• Leadership and Management Professional
• Education Consultant
• Third Sector or Charity Leader
• Policy and Programme Officer
• Doctoral Researcher or Academic

You'll also develop transferable skills in leadership, organisational development, and change management that are valued across sectors beyond education.

For those interested in further study, this degree provides a strong foundation for EdD or PhD research and careers in higher education.

Whether you're working in schools, colleges, charities, local authorities, or training organisations, this MA will help you strengthen your leadership practice and prepare for greater responsibility and influence.

To apply for the online MA Early Childhood Studies, you'll typically need to provide:
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
• A completed application form
• Supporting documents relating to your qualifications or relevant professional experience

Additional documentation may be requested depending on your individual circumstances. If you're unsure about any aspect of the application process, the university's admissions team will be happy to help.

Tuition fees for the online MA Education are £8,000 for the full programme. Fees cover your teaching, learning materials, assessments, and access to student support services.

Regional discounts may be available depending on your location. University of Roehampton graduates are eligible for a 20% tuition fee discount when returning for online postgraduate study, subject to eligibility criteria.

UK residents may also be able to apply for a Postgraduate Master's Loan of up to £12,167 through the UK Government to help cover tuition fees and living costs. International students should contact the university for information on payment arrangements and available support.