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Part time — Open
Graduate

MSc in Learning and Teaching

The MSc in Learning and Teaching is a two-year, part-time, professional development course for qualified teachers who are currently working in schools or similar educational settings. 

Open: Part time

Applications are still open. Up to a week's notice of closure will be provided on this page - no other notification will be given. 

Expected length:
  • Part time: 2 years
Expected start date:
  • Part time:
English language level:
  • Higher level required
Dreaming Spires with view of the Sheldonian Theatre

About the course

The course focuses on developing your pedagogical practice in schools and classrooms, through engagement with and in research.

The MSc is intended for teachers, in both primary and secondary schools and further education, and including school leaders, who are interested in developing a research-informed approach to their existing practice. It focuses on the processes of learning and teaching, and is rooted in your own practice in school (or a similar educational setting). It is not possible to enrol if you are not currently working in a school (or similar setting) and is unsuitable for those in higher education.

The course is built around four main themes:

  • Teachers and learners
  • Curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment
  • Responding to pupils
  • Schools, equity and achievement

Course structure

This section provides an overview of the course structure, while details of the individual course components are provided below.

Students will cover aspects of all four themes each year (studying part-time). In the first year students will complete an assignment informed by work from two of the themes based on students and/or teachers’ perceptions of an issue in learning and teaching. Students will then undertake a research and development project in their final year of study: this involves developing and evaluating an evidence-informed change to practice in their own school context.

The course involves attending in-person teaching weekends and carrying out investigations in school, which are supported by set readings.

Throughout the course there is a strong emphasis on collaboration within your school and across the course. The University’s Virtual Learning Environment is used to support the school-based tasks and sustain critical discussion with peers. In addition to attendance at the seminars, all students are expected to engage in online activities, reporting and reflecting on their reading and school-based investigations.

Research in the department is organised around three major themes:

  • Language, Cognition and Development
  • Policy, Economy and Society
  • Learning: Pedagogy, Learning and Knowledge.

Within each of these themes there are several research groups and centres. All staff and doctoral students belong to one or more of these research groups, each of which has its own seminar programme to which graduate students often contribute. In addition, the department as a whole sponsors regular seminars and public lectures which attract distinguished national and international speakers.

Core components

You will complete an assignment, a research and development project, attend teaching weekends and conduct investigations in school.

Course details

Entry requirements

For entry in 2026-27

Funding and costs

College preference

Before you apply

Completing your application

Contact details