MSc in Learning and Teaching at University of Oxford

Programme overview

The MSc in Learning and Teaching is a part-time professional development course for qualified teachers working in schools or similar settings, including school leaders. It develops research-informed pedagogical practice rooted in the student's own school and is built around four themes: teachers and learners, curriculum, pedagogy and assessment, responding to pupils, and schools, equity and achievement.

Faculty: Department of Education (Social Sciences Division) | Department: Department of Education | Duration: 2 years, part time | Intake: 10 September 2027 (2027-28 entry) | Study mode: part-time | Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

In year one students complete an assignment drawing on two of the four themes, based on perceptions of an issue in learning and teaching, attending five teaching weekends in Oxford. In year two they undertake a research and development project that develops and evaluates an evidence-informed change to practice in their own school, assessed by a poster presentation and a dissertation, with two further teaching weekends and an annual conference. Online activities and school-based investigations run throughout.

Career pathways

Graduates continue their engagement with research (including DPhil study) and support colleagues in school; the course has enabled many alumni to progress to leadership roles in schools, including several headteachers.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in the subject area relevant to the applicant's work in school, and a postgraduate certificate of education with master's credits or other relevant qualifications or experience (minimum GPA 3.6/4.0 for US degrees). Applicants must have Qualified Teacher Status in the UK or a recognised equivalent, be employed in a teaching post in a school or similar educational setting, and have evidence of employer support. No GRE/GMAT. Three referees (academic and/or professional, with employer reference confirming time commitment), transcripts and personal statement (max 500 words). Interviews are normally held online. English language (University higher level): IELTS Academic 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each component; TOEFL iBT 110 (minimum Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24); C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency 191 overall and 185 per component; Oxford Test of English Advanced 165 overall and 155 per component. Tests must be taken within two years of the start date. Application deadlines: 12:00 UK time, 13 November 2026 (applications more likely to receive earlier decisions), 7 January 2027 (final deadline for Oxford scholarships) and 2 March 2027 (expected final deadline; 2027-28 entry).

Domestic applicants: GBP 8,925 a year (2027/28). Part-time study, home fee, annual course fee Source

International applicants: GBP 19,170 a year (2027/28). Part-time study, overseas fee, annual course fee Source

Intake: 10 September 2027

Duration: 2 years part-time

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