Studying teaching will help prepare you for a career in education where you’ll be able to have a positive impact on other people’s lives. A degree in education might be perfect for you if you want to empower students to achieve their goals and make lasting contributions to society.
Updated: 09 Apr 2026
Teaching and education encompass a wide range of specialisations, reflecting the diverse needs of school learners, types of educational settings, and ever-evolving curriculums. Some specialisms include:
Primary education: Primary education provides foundational learning to children aged around 5 to 11. It focuses on core subjects such as literacy, numeracy, and science, alongside social skills and interactive learning experiences tailored to children's developmental stages and needs.
Secondary education: Secondary education is designed for adolescents aged 11 to 18, building upon primary education but offering a broader curriculum with subject specialisation. It prepares students for higher education or starting jobs after leaving school.
Special education: Special education addresses the unique learning needs of students with disabilities or special educational needs. It provides tailored instruction and support services to help students overcome barriers to learning, promoting academic achievement, independence, and inclusion.
Early childhood education: Early childhood education focuses on the holistic development of young children from birth to age 8. It emphasises nurturing developmental skills through play-based learning, fostering a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success in school.
Educational leadership: Educational leadership encompasses guiding and managing educational institutions to promote student success and institutional effectiveness. Educational leaders inspire vision, foster collaboration, and implement strategic initiatives to improve teaching and learning outcomes.
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Educational psychology
Curriculum development
Assessment and evaluation
Teaching methods
Educational technology
Diversity and inclusion
Educational policy
Education in society
Theories of learning
You’ll develop the tools to teach others how to effectively study and reach their educational goals. You may choose to specialise in a particular age group or teaching requirement, and at university you’ll learn about educational psychology, curriculum design, assessment methods, and classroom management techniques.
Through classroom observations, teaching placements, and reflective practice, you’ll build skills necessary for effective teaching and educational leadership. You’ll also learn a host of transferable skills, enabling you to work in a variety of settings. These skills include:
Interpersonal skills
Adaptability
Problem-solving
Empathy
Organisation
Are you ready to start looking for your future university degree? Use our handy search tools now to check out teaching and education courses across the UK and find the perfect one for your needs.
In the United Kingdom, teaching and education programs are accredited by professional bodies such as the General Teaching Council for England (GTCE). Accreditation ensures that academic programs meet the standards required for initial teacher training and professional practice in the field of education.
There are many ways to be involved in the field of education without directly studying teaching. If you’re interested in seeing what else is out there, then here are a few alternative degree courses which may align with your interests and career goals:
Educational psychology
School counselling
Leadership and management
Social work
Educational policymaking
With a teaching degree, you’ll have many career pathways available to pursue. You may find yourself working in schools, colleges, universities, or applied educational organisations, with students of all ages and backgrounds.
From teaching and educational leadership to policymaking and advocacy, your role can adapt as you move through your career, but will always be centred around providing opportunities for others.
"From studying education students will gain a comprehensive understanding of educational principles, systems, and structures. Students will develop valuable skills like problem solving, critical thinking, and adaptability. These skills are highly sought after in various careers in education. "
Teaching and education graduates can pursue careers as:
Classroom teacher
Head teacher
Education consultant
Curriculum developer
Educational researcher
Special education needs coordinator
Adult education tutor
Educational psychologist
Social worker
These are just a few of the most common job roles. You will find plenty of other options available to you, and you can also continue your studies by completing a postgraduate degree in teaching and education, or a related subject.
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Single Honours
Education
Primary Education
Secondary Education
Early Childhood Education
Joint Honours
Education with Psychology
Education and Sociology
Education and English Literature
Education and History
SOURCE: COMMON DEGREE TITLES FROM WHATUNI
Alternative options
Foundation years: A foundation year in teaching and education is a great option if you’re interested in pursuing a career in teaching but may not have extensive prior experience or training. Typically lasting for a year, these courses help you to build confidence and proficiency.
Sandwich degrees: Extending your undergraduate degree in teaching by an additional year offers valuable opportunities to gain practical experience through work opportunities and study abroad programs.
Integrated Master’s: Pursuing an Integrated Master's degree allows you to deepen your knowledge and skills in key areas of education, such as psychology, organisation, or a particular subject field. You’ll receive a Master’s qualification and a competitive edge when it comes to finding graduate employment.
Degree apprenticeships: Typically lasting between three to six years, a degree apprenticeship combines academic study with practical training. You’ll earn a wage, while your employer covers all tuition fees and provides you with mentorship and guidance.
FIND OUT MORE: Different types of undergraduate degree
QUALIFICATION | REQUIREMENTS |
|---|---|
UCAS points | 88–152 |
A-levels | A*AA–CCD |
BTECs | DDD–MMP |
Scottish Highers | AAABB–BBBC |
International Baccalaureate | 42–29 |
SOURCE: WHATUNI
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Entry requirements for teaching and education programs can vary depending on the specific course and institution. However, most programs require at least 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C or higher, with strong grades in English and mathematics. The good news is most unis won’t ask for specific A-levels (or equivalent) unless you do a combined course.
FIND OUT MORE: How to choose your A-level subjects
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