BA (Hons) Applied Education Studies
Students on the part-time BA (Hons) Applied Education Studies course are already working or volunteering in an educational setting in roles such as teaching assistants, early years practitioners, instructors or unqualified teachers.
The course is designed to link education theory with practical experience so students can make strong connections between their current professional practice and their academic study.
Over the duration of the degree, students are able to further develop their knowledge and understanding of teaching and learning processes while continuing to work.
Studying at degree level positively supports a student’s continued professional development in their current role as well as their future career prospects. On completion, many of our graduates apply for an employment-based route to Qualified Teacher Status, or undertake a PGCE course.
Course description - Applied Education Studies BA Hons
FAQ
No. You need to be working or volunteering for at least two days a week in an early years setting, a school or an alternative education provision.
The majority of our students are working as teaching assistants, nursery nurses, cover supervisors or unqualified teachers.
University tutors do not visit students in their workplace and there is no requirement for a mentor. Some assignments require students to observe or participate in practice in their setting. University tutors will support your academic development over the four years.
Tuition fee and maintenance loans for part-time students are available in the same way as for full-time students. You can contact the Student Loan Company on 0300 100 0607 for further details.
Check your eligibility for a part-time student loan at GOV.UK - Student Finance
We consider a range of qualifications and also look at the experience you already have in education through your work. If you have accredited HLTA status, your prior learning will be recognised in Year 1. Your fee will be reduced by a third and you will only study two units.
The majority of our students go on to complete a teacher training course after their degree to gain qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Our students have gone on to qualify to be early years, primary or special school teachers. Routes into teaching sessions alongside alternative career options are provided during the four years so you are aware of the options open to you post-graduation.
The course is designed around the school year, term time only with weekly attendance at a local hub starting at 4.00pm. Access to online course resources and the digital library will allow you to organise your studies around your other commitments. Read below to find out how our students balanced study with work.
Email our Admission team on admission@beds.ac.uk and request an application pack for the BA Applied Education studies degree. If you have any other questions, contact Allyson Goodchild (Course Co-ordinator) allyson.goodchild@beds.ac.uk
Student Testimonials
Denise Curran, BA (Hons) Applied Education Studies
Working within a school setting whilst studying towards a degree in education with the University of Bedfordshire has enhanced my professional practice by allowing a deep understanding of how to teach. An applied degree means a hands-on approach to learning which has enriched my performance. Unlike other part-time degrees, the weekly lectures give us the opportunity to be guided by our supportive tutors who want us to achieve highly and lead us through each assignment providing valuable resources and effective sessions. I am currently working as an unqualified teacher and have secured funding to help me through my next step to achieve qualified teacher status. My only regret is that I should have started it sooner.
Hollie Lau, BA (Hons) Applied Education Studies
I have loved studying part-time, allowing me to continue 
working full-time in a school I love. Throughout my time I have been able to progress as an unqualified teacher, and hopefully a qualified one soon. I wouldn't have been able to do that without what this degree has taught me. I have made life long friends, and although we were unable to finish this degree with a celebratory Nando's, we will schedule one in for when we graduate. 4 years went by so quickly, and the variation of assignments, presentations and reviews have been manageable and beneficial. I really do recommend doing this if, like me, full-time university was not for you, commitments to children and family life is difficult to balance, or you still want to be working full-time!
Elizabeth Kershaw, BA (Hons) Applied Education Studies
The BA (Hons) Applied Education Studies part-time course 
has been inspiring, informative and life-changing. The flexibility of this degree has been fantastic. Studying one day a week at the beautiful Putteridge Bury campus allowed me to work the other days of the week in school, implementing my newly-gained knowledge, which gave me the confidence to aim to become a qualified teacher. The support of all the tutors on the course enabled me to fit in my studies and my job throughout the four years and it never became overwhelming. In addition, the content of this course is relevant and interesting; the other students were great fun and we all supported each other throughout the four years and will do going forward, I'm sure. I would not have missed this experience and am so glad that I applied for this course.
Michelle Canepe, BA (Hons) Applied Education Studies
I have just completed my four-year degree and am so 
pleased I chose to study with the University of Bedfordshire. My continuous school experience was valued throughout the degree - it was also fantastic to meet/work with others from various schools. Units have always been of interest; are well thought out and can easily fit alongside full-time work (having a work/university/life plan, to ensure balance, is key!). Tutors have been inspiring and were always available to offer support. The whole experience has been very enjoyable; I have made some amazing new friends, and my confidence has increased greatly (I was even promoted within my workplace during year 3).
Sarah White, BA (Hons) Applied Education Studies
Being a mum of two, studying part-time and working full-
time is not easy by anyone's standards but it is also the best choice I ever made. I have grown so much as a person and as a member of staff within my setting. The course for me was perfect not only could I still earn and support my family, but I also developed my career, knowledge and confidence. I personally would like to thank the University of Bedfordshire for providing me with not only the best 4 years but for the confidence and knowledge I needed to get to where I wanted to be. If you are considering this course, DO IT!