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A complete guide to teaching degrees

Make education your next lesson with a degree that leads to a career in teaching. Explore your options here.

If you’re passionate about people, learning, and making a difference, studying education could be your next big step. Whether you’re set on becoming a teacher or exploring wider roles in policy, psychology, or youth work, an education degree opens up a world of opportunity. From curriculum design to supporting young people’s development, you’ll gain the skills and insight to thrive in a rewarding and meaningful career. Curious about where an education degree could take you? Read on to explore your options, how to apply, and what to expect along the way.

Topics you’ll explore

Your first step toward a career in education begins in the classroom. Here’s what you can expect to learn:

Diversity in the classroom

Developmental psychology

Philosophy of education

International education

Language and literacy

Critical debates in education

Skills you’ll gain

Education is complex, but with the right skills, you’ll be able to navigate this field with ease. Here are some skills future employers might look for:

Hard skills

Teaching methods
Inclusive teaching
Behaviour management
Conflict resolution
Lesson planning
Curriculum development

Soft skills

Communication
Leadership
Emotional Intelligence
Creativity
Time management
Resilience

Degree routes available to you

Education degrees aren’t just for aspiring teachers, they can also lead to careers in policy, training, support, and beyond. These programmes are designed to fit your experience and ambitions into the teaching career you want:

BA Primary/Secondary Education with QTS

Perfect for aspiring teachers, this three- to four-year degree includes Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), preparing you to teach at either primary or secondary level from day one of your career.

BA Education

Explore education from a broader perspective. This degree blends topics like sociology, psychology, and history to prepare you for a wide range of roles across the education sector.

MA Education

Designed for educators and researchers, this course helps you think critically about the purpose, impact, and future of education—ideal for those ready to deepen their practice or pursue academic pathways.

MA Educational Leadership

Ready to take the lead? This degree supports experienced educators looking to step into leadership roles such as Head of Department, Education Consultant, or even Headteacher.

Common questions about teaching degrees

Most undergraduate teaching degrees take three to four years to complete. A master's degree in teaching usually takes one to two years. Both can often be studied part-time.

The cost of a teaching degree varies. Bachelor's degrees average around £9,250 per year. Master's degrees can range from £12,000 to £25,000 in total.

A-levels typically require BBB or equivalent. A 2:1 bachelor's degree in a related field is often needed for a master's.

Why pursue a teaching degree

Impact

Make a difference by ensuring everyone receives a good education, whether you become a practitioner, researcher, or something else.

Demand

There are plenty of jobs available for those working in education, with there even being teacher shortages at present.

Satisfaction

In the UCAS subject survey 2023, 80% of students studying teaching said they would recommend the subject to others.

Connections

Who better to learn from than your fellow educators and the experts who’ll be leading your degree modules?

Ongoing development

In the field of education, there is always something new to learn, whether that’s a new theory, teaching approach, or educational innovation.

Where this degree will take you

An education degree can open the door to a wide range of career paths, both inside and outside the classroom. Here are some common routes you can explore after getting your degree:

School Teacher

Inspire the next generation by leading lessons, supporting learning, and guiding students through key stages of their education.

Teaching Assistant

Play a vital supporting role in the classroom, helping deliver lessons, manage activities, and give extra support to those who need it.

Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teacher

Make a meaningful impact by adapting teaching methods to meet the unique needs of learners with disabilities or learning challenges.

Early Years Educator

Support children during their most important developmental years, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and early learning skills.

Further Education Tutor

Teach and mentor students in colleges or vocational settings, helping them gain skills and qualifications for work or further study.

Education Manager or Adviser

Shape the bigger picture: overseeing programmes, guiding schools, or influencing policy to improve education systems and outcomes.

Find your teaching degree

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Common questions about teaching careers

Job satisfaction in education can vary depending on the role, but many find it rewarding to make a positive impact on students’ lives. While challenges like workload and stress exist, the sense of fulfilment often balances these out.

Starting salaries for teaching graduates typically range from £18,000 to £24,000, with classroom teachers earning between £30,000 and £41,333 as they progress. Senior roles, such as headteachers, can earn up to £123,000, depending on experience and responsibility.