Year of entry
- 2025
UCAS code
- VX53
Duration of study
- 3 years or 4 years with international or placement year
Education and Philosophy - BA (Hons)
Course summary
Are you interested in teaching, the education sector and how policies are implemented in schools? Perhaps you enjoy debating important questions and have a critical viewpoint towards a range of traditional and contemporary topics. Education and Philosophy looks at how professionals operate within educational settings and the challenges faced by this sector. You will develop a theoretical understanding and practical application of education with its influence on individuals and society as well as investigate philosophical theories from around the world. This programme will equip you with transferable skills that will enhance your career prospects in education, teaching or related fields.
We are in the process of refreshing our curriculum for the 2025/26 academic year to reflect best practices and the latest advancements in academia. Updated course content and modules will be available on this page in due course.
Why study Education and Philosophy at Keele University?
Top 20 in England for Philosophy (Guardian University Guide, 2025) Discover new ideas, debate big questions and discuss solutions with your lecturers and peers Philosophy at Keele is ranked Top 10 in the UK for student positivity* NSS 2023 (Broad-based universities) *based on overall student satisfaction, which is an average score across 27 questions asked in the NSS Global Top 300 for Education (Times Higher Education World University Subject Rankings, 2023) Discover diverse cultures through an International Year at a partner university across the globe
Course overview
Education and Philosophy at Keele explores the nature of learning and poses big questions about right and wrong, human life, the nature of reality.
On this combined honours course, you will research the core elements of education including policy, teaching and practice. You will actively engage with discussions around various topics such as psychological, sociological and cultural influences in education, and consider how these may evolve in the future. You will also investigate the key issues and challenges associated with teaching and learning at different levels, such as primary and secondary.
Throughout this programme, you will critically evaluate what education means to individuals and consider important scenarios around the roles and responsibilities of teachers. You will explore how children learn and analyse contemporary assessment methods, whilst considering key factors such as age, the support a student may receive in a range of educational settings, as well as the influence of technology that plays a crucial role in their learning.
You will build your awareness of how the education sector operates and become familiar with the communication between students and teachers as well as the collaboration between professionals in the workplace such as the ways in which teaching is delivered.
In Philosophy you will study texts, think about ideas and formulate your own philosophical theories. You will explore central themes such as moral and political philosophy, logic, epistemology, and the philosophies of mind, religion and science. You will consider key philosophical problems about the nature of the world, the mind and various solutions proposed.
You’ll learn about different philosophical traditions past and present, including Anglo-American, Indian, Buddhist, Greek, French and German philosophy. You’ll enhance your logical and critical thinking skills, and develop the use of sound arguments to defend your views, while detecting fallacies and other argumentative weaknesses. You'll learn to present your work in a variety of ways, giving you transferable skills to find employment once you’ve graduated.
At Keele, you'll have a variety of opportunities to enhance your academic and professional development. Imagine broadening your horizons by studying abroad, learning a foreign language, or completing a work placement. See below for the specific opportunities available on our Education and Philosophy BA (Hons).
"As I am looking at a career in teaching, I chose to take a Placement module. I had the opportunity to spend time in primary, secondary and special schools. This was really beneficial as I was able to put the theoretical knowledge from the course into practice and was able to see how policies are implemented in schools and their effects on both teachers and learners."
Course structure
Modules for Education AND Philosophy
The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods, as well as student voice. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.
This programme is also eligible for Global Challenge Pathways optional modules, Keele’s exciting route of elective study. GCP allows you to explore current debates, enhance your understanding and employability, and complement your chosen subject.
Double Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework
Keele is one of only 15 broad-based universities in England - out of over 100 - to have been awarded Gold in both the 2017 and 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) exercises, demonstrating our consistent teaching excellence.
Additional opportunities
Foundation year 
Learn a language 
Placement year 
International year 
Study abroad 
GCP Elective Pathways Explore moreThere are a range of additional opportunities for this course.
Please note that undertaking one may impact the availability of another.
Work Placement Opportunities
In the School of Social Sciences, you may have the opportunity to apply for a placement module to develop your knowledge and skills in professional environments. This may include opportunities to experience teaching and learning in Primary, Secondary and Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools.
During this experience, you would observe and assist with classroom activities and develop your practical and professional skills in the company of professionals and learners in different age and development stages. We have a wide range of contacts with local schools in the area where you can gain this valuable hands-on experience in the education sector.
Please note: There are limited spaces on this module.
Work Placement Year
On this course, you will have the opportunity to opt for a Work Placement Year in the School of Social, Political and Global Studies between Year 2 and 3. This will allow you to apply your knowledge and practical skills in a workplace environment enabling you to build key skills in communication, teamwork and project management. You will be able to demonstrate your abilities and creative thinking, working with fellow professionals as well as independently.
You will be supported by staff in your preparation to apply for a work placement that suits your interests and career prospects. This opportunity will allow you to develop both personally and professionally during your studies which will assist you in your employment after university.
Enhance your learning
Royal Institute of Philosophy Lecture Series
Hear from guest speakers about their philosophical research and engage in thought-provoking discussions with peers and visitors from other universities. You will have the opportunity to network with professionals and share your knowledge and opinions as well as experience debates on a larger scale to gain a wider insight into different theories and explanations of philosophy. This experience allows you to showcase your skills, and build awareness of new research and take part in demonstrating your critical thinking skills.
Entry requirements
These are the typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If your qualifications aren't listed, please contact us to check if we can accept them. If you don't think you'll meet the stated requirements, you may be able to access this course via a Foundation Year.
Typical offer
Please ensure you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and/or English language requirements.
Please select your qualification from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information
A Level
BBC in three A Levels.
Contextual Offer: CCC in three A Levels.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
BTEC Extended Diploma / National Extended Diploma
DMM in any BTEC Extended Diploma / National Extended Diploma.
Contextual Offer: MMM in any BTEC Extended Diploma / National Extended Diploma.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
BTEC National Diploma / Diploma
Distinction and Merit in any BTEC National Diploma / Diploma and C in one A Level, or Merit and Merit in BTEC Diploma and A in one A Level.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma
Distinction in any BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma and CC in two A Levels, or Merit in any BTEC National Extended Certificate / Subsidiary Diploma and BB in two A Levels.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
T Level
Merit in any T Level.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
International Baccalaureate Diploma
554 in three Higher Levels or 29 points.
Contextual Offer: 444 in three Higher levels or 27 points.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme
We encourage applications with the IBCP but recognise that your combination of qualifications may differ depending on where you are studying.
If you are taking a BTEC National Diploma / Diploma with one or more Higher Levels, your offer will be similar to our BTEC + A level offer (see 'BTEC National Diploma / Diploma') but with an HL requirement of 6 for A, 5 for B, or 4 for C.
For any other combination, please contact the University Admissions Team for advice.
Access to HE Diploma
112 UCAS points in any Access to HE Diploma including Distinction in at least 15 Level 3 credits.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Welsh Baccalaureate / Bagloriaeth Cymru
The Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate is equivalent to one full A Level at the same grade and can be included alongside 2 other A Levels in a standard A Level offer for this course (see A Level). All subject specific requirements will still need to be met.
Scotland - Highers and Advanced Highers
BCCCC in five Highers, or CD in two Advanced Highers and CC in two Highers, or CCD in three Advanced Highers.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
If you have B or higher in the EPQ and are studying A Levels, BTEC, the International Baccalaureate Diploma, or an Access to HE Diploma, you will typically receive an alternative offer which will be lower than the standard offer. Please see 'Alternative and contextual offers' below.
Core Maths
If you have B or higher in Core Maths and are studying A Levels, BTEC, the International Baccalaureate, or an Access to HE Diploma, you will typically receive an alternative offer which will be lower than the standard offer. Please see 'Alternative and contextual offers' below.
Ireland - Leaving Certificate
H3, H4, H4, H4, H4, H4 in the Irish Leaving Certificate.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
China - Gaokao
70% in the Gaokao.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
India - Standard XII
Average of 65% from four subjects in the ICSE, CBSE or Western Bengal Standard XII, or average of 70% from four subjects in any other Standard XII.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Germany - Abitur
2.4 overall average in the Abitur.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
France - Baccalaureate
12 in the French Baccalaureate/International Option Baccalaureate/Baccalauréate Français International.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Hong Kong - Diploma
443 from two electives and one core subject in the HKDSE.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Spain - Bachillerato
Overall average of 7 in the Título de Bachillerato.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Italy - Diploma di Esame di Stato
75% in the Esame di Stato.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Cyprus - Apolytirion
17.5 / 83% in the Apolytirion.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Portugal
Overall average of 15 in a Secondary Certificate.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Canada - Diploma
60% / BCCCC in five courses in the Grade 12 Diploma.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Kenya - KCSE / Diploma
We do not accept the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.
We may accept a two year Diploma. Please contact the University Admissions Team for advice.
Nigeria - Senior School Certificate / OND
We do not accept the Senior School Certificate (WAEC or NECO) for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.
We may accept an Ordinary National Diploma with GPA of 2.5 or a Merit / Lower Credit. Please contact the University Admissions Team for advice.
USA - Advanced Placement
443 from three Advanced Placement subjects.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Ghana
We do not accept the West African Senior School Certificate Examination for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.
Sri Lanka - Advanced Level
BBC in three Advanced Levels.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Malaysia - STPM
BBC in three Principal Level subjects in the STPM.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Pakistan - Secondary School Certificate
We do not accept the Secondary School Certificate for direct entry. However, you can apply to study an International Foundation Year at Keele University International College. On successful completion, you can progress to an undergraduate degree at Keele.
Singapore - A Levels (H2)
BBC in three H2 Levels.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
European Baccalaureate
70% overall.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
NCUK
Pass NCUK Foundation Year with BBC and a C in EAP English Language module.
Uganda - Advanced Certificate of Education
BBC in three Principal Level subjects in the Advanced Certificate of Education.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
Zimbabwe - Advanced Level GCE
BBC in three Advanced Level subjects.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below).
English language requirements
All our courses require an English language qualification or test. Most students meet this through a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please visit our English Language pages for details, including test information for international students. For students who require a test, this course requires a result from Group A.
Alternative and contextual offers
We're committed to ensuring equality of opportunity for applicants with the potential and motivation to succeed, regardless of background. We offer alternative offer schemes with clear eligibility criteria, including contextual offers, offers for those studying in the Keele region, and recognition of a range of additional qualifications.
General information
The entry grades outlined indicate the typical offer, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary conditions based upon a candidate's application.
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"I chose to study a combined honours degree in Education and English Literature which broadened my subject expertise and demonstrated how two distinct fields can merge and inform each other. I was given the freedom to choose from a diverse list of modules which meant the degree I studied was shaped by my own interests. The degree programme offered many opportunities to gain transferable skills through placements in schools and involvement in community projects. The teaching and classes were genuinely enjoyable, and they were delivered by a team of knowledgeable and engaging lecturers. My study of Education at Keele was a fantastic experience."
Fees and funding
Tuition fees for 2025/26 academic year
- UK: £9,535 for the 2025/6 academic year (subject to Parliamentary approval).
- International: Band 1, £17,700 for the 2025/26 academic year
Please note, our 2026/27 entry fees have not yet been set. We set our fees on an annual basis and they will be updated here once set.
For Home students, the University's fees are regulated by the UK Government and may be subject to change in subsequent years of your course in-line with government policy or legal requirements. For continuing international students, fees will increase annually by RPI, with a maximum cap of 5% per year.
For details of our international fee bands visit our Undergraduate tuition fees page.
Going to university can be daunting as well as exciting. It's important to understand the costs and financial support available.
Our Student Financial Support team offers confidential advice and guidance to help you manage your money, resolve issues with Student Finance, create a budget, explore your options if you're facing financial hardship, and access any funding you are eligible for, such as bursaries and scholarships.
For more information visit our undergraduate fees and funding pages.
Your future career
A degree in Education and Philosophy will develop your skills in communication and critical analysis. You will graduate with a forward thinking approach towards your work and demonstrate your problem-solving skills in the workplace environment. You will gain highly developed skills in critical thinking and negotiating, both of which are highly prized by employers.
You may wish to explore a career in teaching or other organisations engaged with training, support and learning. Throughout this programme, you will learn to organise your time and workload, to present your views confidently and to work well with others. This course will prepare you for employment in a broad range of careers with skills that are applicable for a variety of roles.
You may choose to pursue a career in:
- Teaching and education
- Social Work
- Youth Work
- Policing
- Health
- Politics
- Journalism
- Research
- Business
- Psychology
- Marketing and PR
- Finance
- Law
- Computing
- Charity Management
- Publishing
- Further study
If you are considering a career in Secondary School teaching, you will be required to have a good knowledge of the subject you would like to teach. Studying an Education Combined Honours programme is a great option to help prepare you for your career and meet this requirement.
Alternatively, if you are considering a career in Primary School teaching, the Education Single Honours programme is a great option to help prepare you for your career in the Primary Sector.
Enhance you employability
Keele’s Careers and Employability team (Shortlisted for Best University Careers Employment Service - National Undergraduate Employability Awards, 2021), offers a variety of personal and career development opportunities to enhance your employability.
From mock interviews, careers guidance and CV advice, to careers fairs, alumni mentoring and networking events, along with helping you find part-time and graduate employment - the team will support you throughout your studies and beyond.
Find out more about our careers and employability services, including career planning, alumni mentoring, jobs, internships, starting your own business and much more.
Teaching, learning and assessment
Teaching and assessment in Education
Education provides an array of diverse teaching styles to ensure you have a strong understanding of the subject area. Our aim is to equip you with the necessary skills to assist you throughout your studies, in preparation for your career.
You will develop key analytical and presentation skills as well as the ability to engage with important discussions with academics and peers. This will help you to construct and form strong arguments.
You will be taught through various methods including:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Workshops
- Seminars
- Web-based learning
These teaching methods will enhance your experience, allowing you to share your knowledge and expertise.
You will engage with various assessment methods which may include:
- Essays
- Reports
- Presentations
- Reviews/analysis
- Portfolio
Global Challenges Language pathway
Many of our students embrace the opportunity to enhance their education degree credentials by also taking a Global Challenges Language Pathway in British Sign Language (BSL) or Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) certification, alongside their education modules. Completing these specialist, practical language skills pathways alongside your Education degree will improve your communication with a diverse range of learners, help foster inclusive learning environments and provide you with lifelong skills that will be invaluable in both educationally related and wider community/social contexts.
Teaching and assessment in Philosophy
Philosophy is taught by lecturers with diverse research expertise, sparking your imagination in a range of different topics. You will consider past and present perspectives and learn to think creatively and engage with thought-provoking discussions with peers and academics. This will involve analysing philosophical problems and constructing reasoned arguments. This experience will allow you to build logical arguments and think critically about the topic at hand, enabling you to gain a better understanding of how some difficult questions might be answered.
You will be taught through lectures, tutorials, seminars and web-based learning to ensure you engage with a variety of activities, through group work as well as independent study; developing skills that will prepare you for employment.
You will be assessed through various methods including:
- Examinations
- Essays
- Presentations
- Dialogues
- Video-making
- Portfolios
- Dissertation
Foundation year
Foundation year overview
Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, offering preparation for your chosen degree with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete.
This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, build your confidence, and provide a better understanding of higher education.
On our Foundation Year, you'll join our undergraduate community from the outset, with access to all the facilities and support you'd get as an undergraduate student at Keele.
Discover the Keele difference
Everything’s on your doorstep at Keele, and you’ll soon feel at home and make friends wherever you go.
We help students manage their money and ensure that they receive any funding for which they may be eligible.
Make yourself more employable after graduation by taking advantage of the whole host of additional opportunities.