
BA (Hons) Education
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Top in Wales for Career Prospects in Education Guardian League Table 2023
Do you want to work within the field of education and make a positive impact on young people? The BA (Hons) Education will develop the knowledge, skills and passion for education in a range of contexts and prepare you to respond to the demands of education with a creative and adaptive approach.
As part of your Education degree you will have the opportunity to undertake a placement in a primary school, an alternative educational setting and a range of international settings such as Prague, Dubai, Budapest, Maastricht and Qatar.
The course will provide you with innovative and forward-thinking pedagogical experiences and assessments that will develop key employability skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration which will enable you to become a productive and effective member of the global workforce.
You will learn skills to support you to work in sectors such as community and voluntary organisations and to be able to take on the role of education officers in settings such as museums, sports facilities and wildlife trusts. You may also choose to progress onto a PGCE and become a teacher.
Top in Wales for graduate prospects in Education (Complete University Guide 2023)
UCAS Code | Study Mode
2023 |
Duration | Start Date | Campus | Campus Code |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
X300 | Full-time | 3 Years | September | Newport City | C |
UCAS Code | Study Mode
2024 |
Duration | Start Date | Campus | Campus Code |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
X300 | Full-time | 3 Years | September | Newport City | C |
Your studies will focus on child development and how children and young people learn through the Welsh curriculum. Placement is a key aspect of the course which you will undertake in both school and alternative educational settings.
Digital skills will be developed in line with 21st century expectations and needs. Research is also a key element and you will develop skills to become a research-informed practitioner.
Your learning will involve a combination of lectures and placements. Through experience and observation in a range of educational settings, you will learn how theory translates to real-life practice. You will also develop an understanding of the wider sector which will support you to make informed career choices.
Modules will introduce the necessary values, knowledge, attitudes and skills where you will have the opportunity to develop, observe, practice and reflect in a range of environments, allowing you to explore the interconnectedness of theory so that you can translate it to practice in the wider context. The course is made up of five components each year with the skills and knowledge building upon the previous year’s content.
Year One: BA (Hons) Education Degree
Professional Practice 1, School setting - 40 credits
Within Professional Practice students undertake placements in each of the three years in a range of settings to learn how theory translates to real life practice. The setting for year 1 is a primary school where understanding of the curriculum and child development is observed and experienced first -hand throughout the year. Students’ Welsh language skills are developed to be utilised in the educational setting.
Child of the World - 20 credits
This module cultivates students’ understanding of how children develop through the exploration and analysis of four key themes of child development, both practically and theoretically. Written and oral assessments will provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of child development whilst improving skills in communication, enquiry and critical reflection.
Creative Curriculum 1 - 20 credits
The module takes a practical approach to learning, teaching skills that can be utilised in the classroom environment. This module develops thinking, communication and imaginative skills through creative arts, e.g. drama, art, music, dance and storytelling.
Digital Foundations - 20 credits
This module explores the current uses of technology and how it is used to support and enhance learning opportunities. Creativity, problem solving and computational thinking are a key focus as education looks to ensure learners are skilled and able to understand and use technology in the world around them.
Introduction to Research - 20 credits
This module introduces students to a range of education research skills and strategies including understanding the different types of research, where to start selecting sources and critical reading and reflection.
Year Two: BA (Hons) Education Degree
Professional Practice 2, Alternative educational setting - 40 credits
Students will extend their knowledge and understanding of the importance of reflective, lifelong learning and personal and professional development. Students will develop skills and knowledge required for an alternative educational setting and the importance of communication to meet the needs of the audience. They will continue to develop skills for academic success in higher education, including research skills and skills in relation to Welsh language will also continue to be developed.
Health and Happiness - 20 credits
Exploring the importance of health and well-being in education for all is a key factor in identifying concepts that affect the emotional and social development of children and young people. Alongside well-being as the central theme, the skills for communication and critical thinking are developed to support learning.
Creative Learning - 20 credits
Students will engage with direct experiences including learning through play in the outdoor environment in order to appreciate the development of collaborative and problem solving skills and how these impact on child development and learning.
Digital Development - 20 credits
Technology in education has the power to fully transform the whole learning experience, and to make learning easily accessible to all. The use of a range of apps is explored whilst designing learning opportunities that take advantage of technology and allow learners to gain better access. Resource creation is an important part of the process as well as instructional design of those resources.
Educational Research Journey - 20 credits
This module immerses students within key theory, processes and principles pertinent to undergraduate research, and prepares students to conduct their own project in the final year of the degree.
Year Three: BA (Hons) Education Degree
Professional Practice 3, choice of educational setting - 40 credits
In the final year, academic skills are extended and refined. Students critically examine various approaches to learning, e.g. growth mind-set. They articulate a clear understanding of the continuum of personal and professional development. A range of settings are available to be chosen by the student which may include returning to a primary school or alternative setting, a comprehensive school or the international school option. They also refine skills for success in higher education, e.g. research skills, preparation for employability and the world of work. Students justify and use innovative approaches to promote language skills within educational settings.
Global Citizenship - 20 credits
This module supports students to develop and apply theoretical knowledge concerning aspects of sustainability and citizenship for practical use in a variety of learning environments. Through engaging and stimulating activities, the students will develop knowledge based on equality, diversity and sustainability whilst developing their critical thinking and collaboration skills.
Effective Leadership - 20 credits
Within this module, students are able to reflect upon the principles of effective leadership, consider the styles identified in research and consider the benefits and possible limitations of both. The module focuses on the notion of distributed leadership and critically evaluates how a shared, collective and extended leadership practice builds the capacity for change and improvement. Students also explore and develop a critical perspective on the theory and practice of coaching and mentoring.
Digital Leadership - 20 credits
Students explore management of a digital programme, policies that support and develop a programme and how technology can support beyond the institution. The module focuses on critical reflection of how cultural change can be developed through leadership at any level, specifically focusing on how the students on the course can be instigators of change.
Educational Research Delivery - 20 credits
This module builds upon key themes and principles from Year 2, with students conducting, evaluating and presenting their own research project that will present findings, culminating in recommendations for the educational setting.
Teaching
The BA (Hons) Education degree combines university-based and placement-based study and school placements.
The school-based element involves a placement in the first year with the option of returning to a school setting in the final year. The second year setting is in an educational environment to develop the skills needed outside of the classroom.
A typical week includes sessions on campus (lectures, workshops, seminars, for example) as well as sessions within an educational environment where students work alongside their peers and staff.
Professional learning and development are key foci of the course and students have the opportunity to engage with a range of experts within the field of education, external speakers and guest lecturers.
There are also opportunities to experience Apple Teacher; Google Teacher; Safeguarding; Outdoor Learning; First Aid; TEFL/TEAL; Food and Hygiene; Prevent; Play to learn; Physical Literacy; ELSA; Philosophy for Children (P4C) and Student Assistance Programme (SAP).
Assessment
Assessment includes written coursework tasks, seminar presentations, projects and simulated learning using cutting-edge technology. Practical placement experience are assessed each year in relation to the Professional Practice modules.
There are no examinations for this course.
Placements
A distinctive element of this Education degree is the opportunity to undertake a final four-week international placement in their final year of study. The University has strong links with Maastricht, Prague, Finland, Budapest and Qatar for placement opportunities.
Facilities
We have specialist classrooms which simulate educational settings, a science laboratory and a number of computer suites which will provide you with authentic learning opportunities. These learning spaces are designed to look and feel like a school environment, allowing you to develop confidence for the workplace.
The BA (Hons) Education course also makes use of range of technology to enhance teaching and increase employability prospects.
- The Hydra Simulation Centre presents virtual reality scenarios within a protected environment, and you will be involved in the discussion and resolution of issues that could occur in daily school life. Students will be required to travel to the Pontypridd campus to access this facility.
- The University is an accredited Apple Regional Training Centre, so you will be provided with expert guidance around the use of Apple technologies to enhance learning and teaching. Learners will receive bespoke Apple certified training as well as becoming accredited as Apple Teachers.
- Google Suite is used to support and develop digital skills. Staff have been certified to deliver training on how Google tools can be used in education to support key areas and provide certification to students.
Lecturers
- Viv West
- Kelly Wegener
- Sue Urwin
- Tracey Evans
- Halima Alam
- Mathew Pullen - Microsoft Innovative Expert for 2020-21*
- Sallyann Seaward
- Jon Moody
We regularly revalidate courses for quality assurance and enhancement
At USW, we regularly review our courses in response to changing patterns of employment and skills demand to ensure we offer learning designed to reflect today’s student needs and tomorrow’s employer demands.
If during a review process course content is significantly changed, we’ll write to inform you and talk you through the changes for the coming year. But whatever the outcome, we aim to equip our students with the skillset and the mindset to succeed whatever tomorrow may bring. Your future, future-proofed.
The entry criteria below reflect our standard entry requirements for the course for September 2023. However, all applications received by the University are reviewed holistically and individually. Entry criteria for September 2024 is changing and will be published on ucas.com from 8th May 2023. Entry criteria for September 2024 will be updated on our website from the end of October 2023.
Contextual offers
We may make you a lower offer based on a range of factors, including your background (where you live and the school or college that you attended for example), your experiences and individual circumstances (as a care leaver, for example). This is referred to as a contextual offer and we receive data from UCAS to support us in making these decisions. USW prides itself on its student experience and we support our students to achieve their goals and become a successful graduate. This approach helps us to support students who have the potential to succeed and who may have faced barriers that make it more difficult to access university. Here is a link to our Contextual Admissions Policy.
Other qualifications and experience
We can also consider combinations of qualifications and other qualifications not listed here may also be acceptable. We can sometimes consider credits achieved at other universities and your work/life experience through an assessment of prior learning. This may be for year one entry, or advanced entry to year two or three of a course where this is possible.
To find out which qualifications have tariff points, please refer to the UCAS tariff calculator.
If you need more help or information or would like to speak to our friendly admissions team, please contact us here
Additional Requirements:
An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check on the Child Workforce and Child Barring List and subscription to the DBS Update Service. (Overseas equivalent required for non-uk applicants)
Typical A-Level Offer
BCC - CDD to exclude General Studies (this is equivalent to 104-80 UCAS tariff points).
Typical Welsh BACC Offer
Pass the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Diploma with Grade C/D in the Skills Challenge Certificate and BC - CD at A Level to exclude General Studies (this is equivalent to 104-80 UCAS tariff points).
Typical BTEC Offer
BTEC Extended Diploma Distinction Merit Merit - Merit Merit Pass (this is equivalent to 112-80 UCAS tariff points).
Typical Access to HE Offer
Passing the Access to HE Diploma and obtain a minimum of 80 UCAS tariff points.
Additional Requirements
Additional Requirements
GCSEs: The University normally requires a minimum 5 GCSEs including Mathematics/Numeracy and English at Grade C or Grade 4 or above, or their equivalent, but consideration maybe given to individual circumstances.
International Entry Requirements
We also welcome international applications with equivalent qualifications. Please visit the country specific pages on our international website for exact details.
English Requirements
In general, international applicants will need to have achieved an overall IELTS grade of 6.0 with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component.
However, if you have previously studied through the medium of English IELTS might not be required, but please visit the country specific page on our international website for exact details. If your country is not featured, please contact us.
Full-time fees are per year. Part-time fees are per 20 credits. Once enrolled, the fee will remain at the same rate throughout the duration of your study on this course.
August 2023 - July 2024 Fees
Full-time UK: £9000
Full-time International: £14400
August 2024 - July 2025 Fees
Full-time UK: TBC
Full-time International: £15260
Student Perks
At the University of South Wales, you’re investing in so much more than a degree. We strive to provide our students with the best possible experience, no matter what you chose to study. Whether it’s access to top of the range mac books and PCs, state-of-the-art facilities packed with industry-leading equipment and software, masterclasses and events led by industry experts, or a wide range of clubs and societies to meet likeminded people, better tomorrows start with extra perks.
Each course also has their own unique student benefits to prepare you for the real word, and details of these can be found on our course pages. From global field trips, integrated work experience and free course-related resources, to funded initiatives, projects working with real employers, and opportunities for extra qualifications and accreditations - at USW your future, is future-proofed.
Click here to learn more about student perks at USW.
Additional Costs
As a student of USW, you’ll have access to lots of free resources to support your study and learning, such as textbooks, publications, online journals, laptops, and plenty of remote-access resources. Whilst in most cases these resources are more than sufficient in supporting you with completing your course, additional costs, both obligatory and optional, may be required or requested for the likes of travel, memberships, experience days, stationery, printing, or equipment.
* Obligatory
Item | Cost | |
---|---|---|
DBS * | £55.42 | This fee includes £40 for the enhanced DBS certificate, the Post Office administration fee and the online administration fee.
|
DBS Updating Service * | £13 | Subscription required for each year of the course for a yearly fee of £13. Please note the service has to be joined within 30 days of receipt of your enhanced DBS certificate. |
Other: Travel to and from placement (compulsory) * | Years 1, 2 & 3 - Cost is dependent on placement location and is an additional cost to be met by students. |
|
iPad (compulsory) * | £310 - £465 | USW is a champion of digital skill development and as such, we ensure students are equipped with these skills to both support their studies and future careers.
Students will need to purchase an iPad to access the course. Options for purchasing an iPad will be available through the University if required. |
International placement (optional) | Students may choose to undertake an optional 4-week international placement in their final year of study that will provide an educational experience and cultural awareness that will assist in the acquisition of new skills and knowledge to be discovered in the immersion of an international placement experience. |
Funding
Funding to help pay for (or cover) course tuition fees and living costs
Whilst you’re studying, you’ll have two main financial obligations – tuition fees and living costs. There’s lots of financial help available from the University of South Wales and external funding sources, that may provide loans (which have to be paid back) and grants, scholarships and bursaries (that don't).
To learn about course fees, funding options, and to see if you are eligible for financial support, visit our Fees and Funding pages.
UK students
Apply via UCAS if you are a UK residing applicant, applying for year 1 of a full-time undergraduate degree, Foundation Year, Foundation Degree or HND and you have not applied through UCAS before. If you are applying to study part-time, to top up your Foundation Degree or HND, or to transfer to USW from another institution, please apply directly.
International and EU students
Apply directly to the University if you live outside the UK.
Those with an Education degree can consider a wide range of possible employment options including teacher (with further study); education officer; learning and teaching support assistants; education policy advisor; education and training co-ordinator; employment opportunities within the wider field of education, e.g. hospitals, charities, community education; central government departments; community and voluntary organisations; police and probation services; social services; universities; corporate careers (including customer services, public relations and human resources and educational programme designer.
Our Careers and Employability Service
As a USW student, you will have access to advice from the Careers and Employability Service throughout your studies and after you graduate.
This includes: one-to-one appointments from faculty based Career Advisers, in person, over the phone or even on Skype and through email via the "Ask a Question" service. We also have extensive online resources for help with considering your career options and presenting yourself well to employers. Resources include psychometric tests, career assessments, a CV builder, interview simulator and application help. Our employer database has over 2,000 registered employers targeting USW students, you can receive weekly email alerts for jobs.
Our Careers service has dedicated teams: A central work experience team to help you find relevant placements; an employability development team which includes an employability programme called Grad Edge; and an Enterprise team focused on new business ideas and entrepreneurship.
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