Education | BA (Hons) | University of Lincoln

Dr Helen Childerhouse - Programme Leader

Dr Childerhouse works on the undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in the School of Education. After almost 20 years as a primary school teacher, she is now focusing her research on policy and practice in primary education. Her current research involves developing an understanding of children's own perceptions of their well-being in schools and classrooms.

Academic Staff List

Welcome to BA (Hons) Education

Education professionals make a difference to the lives of children and young people, inspiring them to learn and developing their knowledge and skills to prepare them for their future.

Our BA (Hons) Education degree invites students to consider education within different learning environments and review education systems across the world.

The study of education provides an insight into how children and young people learn and the ways in which this is shaped and delivered. This degree looks at learning and teaching through four key areas: philosophy, sociology, history, and psychology.

The programme considers the different ways in which education is implemented and understood throughout the UK and globally. The aim of the degree is to support our students to understand and question current and historical education systems, and to consider how these systems align with policy, practice, and social expectations.

Students will have the opportunity to consider education in compulsory schools and in other learning environments not associated with typical classrooms.

BA (Hons) Education at Lincoln aims to incorporate research-based opportunities. Throughout their degree, students are encouraged to undertake small-scale research projects in an area of education, such as learning or teaching approaches, comparisons of global education systems, studies of curricula, or special educational needs.

How You Study

The first year centres on introductory core modules which focus on learning, teaching, education, and research skills. Students can reflect on the global and local influences on policy and practice, and consider how this has shaped the ways children and young people are able to learn.

A tutorial system operates throughout the three-year course. The first year provides opportunities for students to develop their own personal and academic skills and can provide a sound basis for transition to the second year. The course also includes a series of scheduled meetings with a personal tutor.

In the second and third years, teaching focuses on special educational needs and diversity, research methods in education, and perspectives in education. Students are able to choose optional modules to support their own specific interests. These currently include Studies of Childhood;
Curriculum: Principles and Purposes; Psychology of Education; and Intermediate Education.

The final year involves the completion of an extended research-based project. This along with further elective modules aims to provide opportunities for students to build on their own interests and may be determined by their career aspirations.

Teaching takes place in lectures, seminars and workshops, and in small groups, depending on the level and the topic of study. In addition, staff use the intranet to provide materials to support teaching; course materials are posted to an online virtual learning environment to supplement face-to-face teaching and support onsite and remote study.

What You Need to Know

We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. To help you choose the course that’s right for you, we aim to bring to your attention all the important information you may need. Our What You Need to Know page offers detailed information on key areas including contact hours, assessment, optional modules, and additional costs.

Find out More

"Studying BA Education at Lincoln University is one of the best decisions I have ever made! I really enjoy the course and couldn't have asked for better teaching staff. It was really easy to settle into the course and start to get stuck in."

Reece Brocklehurst, BA (Hons) Education

Research

This course aims to incorporate research-based opportunities; and as a result, students can gain the knowledge and skills required to study aspects of education of specific interest. Students are encouraged throughout the degree to undertake small-scale research projects in an area of education such as learning or teaching approaches, comparisons of global education systems, studies of curricula, or special educational needs. The course has been designed to provide students with a strong base for postgraduate study and beyond.

The four pillars of knowledge: psychology, history, sociology, and philosophy can support a broad understanding of education, and this in conjunction with the study of local and global issues, aims to enable students to gain depth and breadth in their knowledge.

Students may have the opportunity to undertake self-funded study trips abroad, such as to Ireland and Finland, to consider education systems globally. Students on optional trips are responsible for their accommodation, travel, and living expenses.

How you are assessed

The aims of module assessments are to provide a measure of the development and attainment of course outcomes, including the attainment of high-level intellectual skills such as critical analysis and evaluation.

Accordingly, the methods of assessment varies across the three levels of the course, and can include essays, course work, portfolios, presentations, reports and data analyses. Assessments at levels one and two focus on the acquisition and understanding of knowledge and skills. In contrast, the level three assessments place far greater emphasis on the ability to apply, analyse, and evaluate knowledge.

An Introduction to Your Modules

† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

Introduction to Education 2023-24EDM1005MLevel 42023-24This module is designed to provide students with an introduction to education and consider the background to UK and global perspectives on current education policy and provision. It aims to enable students to understand the relationship between education, politics and society, to understand the views of others and to establish a personal view that will inform the choices they make as global citizens.CoreIntroduction to Educational Research 2023-24EDM1006MLevel 42023-24This module is designed to introduce students to research methods including quantitative and qualitative research methods used in education research, and aims to help students to develop the understanding of what qualitative and quantitative research projects are like. It will provide an overview of the purpose and different approaches that can be used within research in education.CoreIntroduction to Learning 2023-24EDM1003MLevel 42023-24This module is designed to provide students with an insight into what learning is, how this takes place and what strategies or approaches can be used to support learning. It is anticipated that the module will draw on learning across the lifetime, e.g. in early childhood through to adulthood. However, it will also provide focused examples of learning in early years, primary and secondary learning environments in order to support students who are aiming for careers in teaching, other educational roles, psychology or educational research. Students can gain a broad overview of learning theory and considerations.CoreIntroduction to Teaching 2023-24EDM1004MLevel 42023-24This module is designed to introduce students to the theories of teaching and the role of the teacher. It will explore theories of teaching and their consequences for lesson planning, preparation and delivery, classroom management and effective learning environments. It will explore the role of the teacher such as developing relationships with the students, teaching style to meet different needs and abilities, modelling good practice, being innovative, resourceful and purposeful. It will also explore theories and principles of behaviour management, which will include assertive discipline, preventative approaches to disruption; promoting alternative thinking strategies and conflict resolution.CoreDiversity, Inclusion and Alternative Education 2024-25EDM2004MLevel 52024-25This module is designed to provide students with insight into the diversity that can be observed between learning, concepts of inclusion and approaches to alternative education. The module focuses on teaching and learning in a range of educational environments and through educational research. The module provides the opportunity for students to engage with contemporary research and ideas linked to these key concepts and to explore how policy impacts on provision for different groups of learners.CorePerspectives in Education 2024-25EDM2002MLevel 52024-25This module aims to support students to critique and synthesise their knowledge and understanding of education by comparing the approaches of philosophers, historians, sociologists and psychologists. It introduces students to each of these academic disciplines and their contribution to our current understanding of education. The module draws on classical texts, key academic studies and critically compares their influence on our understanding of education in the UK and internationally.CoreResearch Methods in Education 2024-25EDM2003MLevel 52024-25The aim of this module is to support students in preparing for their dissertation in year three. Students have the opportunity to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills in relation to the complex nature, and processes of research in education. Students can plan and develop a realistic project proposal which should enable them to address a research question of their choice within a specific educational context.CoreCurriculum: Principles and purposes 2024-25EDM2007MLevel 52024-25This module focuses on curricula for learning in education. It considers the purpose, breadth and design of curriculum structures and models and how these can differ in relation to context and culture. Students can gain an understanding of how the curriculum in England has changed and developed, and can describe the subject specific elements within current education provision. This module aims to help students to know, understand and contextualise the core components that make up curricula.OptionalEducation in Digital Society 2024-25EDM2013MLevel 52024-25This module teaches students to think about education within the digital society we live in. Key debates and issues will be engaged with and explored, and students will develop an understanding of how digital tools can be used to enhance the learning experience. Students will consider developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning, for example, and the impact that quickly changing technologies have on educational institutions, their leaders, teachers, and students. They will evaluate the use of technological solutions for diverse and inclusive classrooms and understand the implications of digital practices within the education system. They will also be expected to communicate their learning to different audiences, using different mediums (e.g. video).OptionalIntermediate Education 2024-25EDM2005MLevel 52024-25This optional module is designed to provide students with a deepening understanding of education studies. The module will focus on how education impacts on and is viewed by society. It will consider how social justice, educational policy and representations of education in society can impact on knowledge, understanding and attitudes.OptionalPsychology of Education 2024-25EDM2006MLevel 52024-25This module is designed to provide students with an insight into the psychology of education and how psychology can be used to support practice in a range of learning environments. The module provides students with an opportunity to engage with cutting edge research and how this impacts on practice. Students can gain an insight into some of the key ideas in psychology and how these influence educational practice.OptionalStudies of Childhood 2024-25EDM2008MLevel 52024-25This optional module focuses on childhood by comparing the theories and perceptions of children. It reflects on developmental aspects including social, cognitive, emotional, environmental, physical and language. It considers the ways in which children are portrayed in the media and the impact this may have on cultural representations of children. The module draws on classical and contemporary texts, academic studies and media such as television programmes and films.OptionalWork experience Level 5 2024-25EDM2017MLevel 52024-25OptionalContemporary Issues in Education 2025-26EDM3002MLevel 62025-26This module is designed to introduce students to major issues shaping education today, and to the conceptual tools needed to understand these in an informed way. Students can gain an understanding of key sites of debate in compulsory and alternative education, and critically examine a range of current debates in areas such as educational systems, policies and reform within the UK and in global context, through multidisciplinary perspectives. This module aims to help students understand and confidently engage with the discursive, social and political contexts of education today.CoreDissertation 2025-26EDM3009MLevel 62025-26The dissertation module builds on previous education research modules and facilitates independent research into an area of interest that is central to a student's programme of study. Typically the module will involve a small-scale investigation into a topic agreed between the student and personal tutor, and with the agreement of the personal tutor, students may undertake more theoretical studies as long as they offer an original framing or interpretation of the research problem. It is designed to develop students understanding of, and skills in applying research methods while building and synthesising knowledge gained in previous modules. Students will be asked to complete a research proposal, and if collecting empirical data, an ethical approval form in the first term.CoreAdvanced Digital Education: Perspectives and Practice 2025-26EDM3013MLevel 62025-26Using problem-based learning, this module asks students to design and develop a learning artefact based on a real-world brief. Aiming to prepare students for the workplace, design teams will be formed and students will apply their subject knowledge to the development of their learning artefact over the course of the module. They will be expected to work collaboratively, within teams and with their clients, responding to feedback and engaging with evidence throughout. The presentation of final learning artefacts will demonstrate students awareness of the role of digital education within the modern world, and, importantly, the ethical implications of the use of digital tools in education and beyond.OptionalAdvanced Psychology of Education 2025-26EDM3003MLevel 62025-26This module is designed to provide students with an advanced insight into the psychology of education and how psychology can be used to support practice in a range of learning environments. The module is particularly aimed at those considering a career in teaching and provides students with an opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and how this impacts on practice. Students will be able to gain an insight into the specifics of psychology and how these influence educational practice.OptionalAdvanced SEND 2025-26EDM3008MLevel 62025-26This optional module is designed to provide students with an insight into the different categories of needs that learners may have in the learning environment. The module focuses on learning, teaching, education related work and educational research, and provides students with an opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and how this impacts on practice. Students will be able to gain an insight into some of the key ideas in the pedagogy associated with supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disability.OptionalHistory of Education 2025-26EDM3004MLevel 62025-26This module focuses on the development of state-funded education, primarily in the UK, but with reference to systems of education in other countries. It provides a social history of education and situates it within a broader social history of the public sector. The module draws on archival documents, the media, public policy, academic theory and applied research, and pays particular attention to the role of educators, students and parents in shaping debates around public education.OptionalLearning Through Reflection 2025-26EDM3007MLevel 62025-26This module is designed to introduce students to the concept of learning through reflection, where reflection is deliberate, purposeful, and structured. Reflective skills will be linked to theory and practice and will encompass learning, change and development. The module is designed to build on students' critical thinking and critical reflection skills through the close study of educational theory, practice and through the exploration of the educational philosophers, their relevance to modern educational thought and through the development of critical writing skills.OptionalPhilosophy of Education 2025-26EDM3005MLevel 62025-26This optional module is designed to provide students with an insight into education from a philosophical perspective. It considers how curricula, teaching and learning are influenced and shaped by the broader views, values and beliefs of what education is and what it is for. Students can engage critically with the fundamental, and enduring questions about education.OptionalSociology of Education 2025-26EDM3006MLevel 62025-26This module is designed to help students see education sociologically by exploring the relationship between education, individuals and social life, and between learning and power. How do schools and other educational institutions influence peoples life chances? How do the state, religion, family and economic systems shape educational values and practices? Who decides how people should be educated, about what, and why? How are social inequalities of class, race, dis/ability, gender and sexuality produced and challenged through educational theory, policy and practice? What is the relationship between educational and social change? Drawing on historical and contemporary examples in national and international perspective, this module aims to help students map theoretical perspectives and research methods in the sociology of education and apply these in their own thinking and practice.OptionalWork Experience Level 6 2025-26EDM3016MLevel 62025-26Optional

Entry Requirements 2023-24

United Kingdom

A Level: BBC (112 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 3 A levels) or equivalent qualifications

International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall

BTEC Extended Diploma: Distinction, Merit, Merit or equivalent qualifications

T Level: Merit

Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 Level 3 credits with a minimum of 112 UCAS Tariff points

A combination of qualifications which may include A Levels, BTEC, EPQ etc

Applicants will also need at least three GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, which must include English and Maths. Equivalent Level 2 qualifications may also be considered.

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications as the basis for entry. We will also consider applicants with extensive and relevant work experience and will give special individual consideration to those who do not meet the standard entry qualifications.

International

Non UK Qualifications:

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.

EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-sessional English and Academic Study Skills courses.

https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/pre-sessionalenglishandacademicstudyskills/

If you would like further information about entry requirements, or would like to discuss whether the qualifications you are currently studying are acceptable, please contact the Admissions team on 01522 886097, or email admissions@lincoln.ac.uk

Fees and Scholarships

Going to university is a life-changing step and it's important to understand the costs involved and the funding options available before you start. A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found on our course fees pages.

Course Fees

For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. The University of Lincoln offers a variety of merit-based and subject-specific bursaries and scholarships. For full details and information about eligibility, visit our scholarships and bursaries pages.

What We Look For In Your Application

Applicants should demonstrate an interest in education in general. We would like to hear about your own thoughts about the education system and why you are interested in studying this subject at undergraduate level.

"I love studying Education at the University of Lincoln, because the modules are so interesting and engaging. They give you plenty of insight into what you can expect in different learning environments if you decide to go into teaching. The lecturers are always on hand to offer support where I need it."

Emma Marum, Education BA (Hons) student

Placements

Students will be encouraged, through the study of various modules, to consider education from a global perspective. Whilst formal placements are not currently included in the BA (Hons) Education course, we do encourage students to consider the possibilities of taking part in the Lincoln Award: http://lincolnsu.com/lincolnaward.

The College’s Work Opportunities Hub, which looks to identify suitable placements for students, can help those seeking to enhance their studies with work experience.

Careers

BA (Hons) Education at Lincoln provides students with the chance to study the breadth and depth of teaching and learning. Graduates would be well-placed to move into further study in the form of a PGCE primary teacher training course. Please note, to qualify to teach students in secondary education you would need to complete the first degree in a curriculum subject , i.e. English, Physics, History, etc. prior to completing the PGCE secondary qualification.

Visit Us in Person

The best way to find out what it is really like to live and learn at Lincoln is to join us for one of our Open Days. Visiting us in person is important and will help you to get a real feel for what it might be like to study here.

Book Your Place

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Key Information

BA (Hons) Education