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.

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).

Our foundation year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

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.