MSc Educational Leadership (Specialist Qualification for Headship) at University of Stirling

Programme overview

The MSc Educational Leadership (Specialist Qualification for Headship) is a practice-based, part-time blended course for aspiring and early-career school leaders, accredited by the General Teaching Council for Scotland. It offers four pathways depending on career stage and was developed with local authorities and Education Scotland.

Duration: MSc part-time: 36 months (not continuous) | Intake: September 2027 | Study mode: part-time | Location: Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

The Specialist Qualification for Headship pathway runs over three years: Engaging Critically with Professional Practices and Middle Leadership in year 1, Into Headship 1 and 2 in year 2, and In Headship 1 and 2 in year 3. Alternative routes for those with middle-leader or head teacher experience reorder modules and include Coaching and Mentoring and Examining Professional Practices. Students lead and evaluate a Strategic Change Initiative in their own setting.

Career pathways

Graduates can apply for headship or promoted positions in local authority or grant-aided schools across Scotland, move to larger or more complex settings, or progress to the Doctor of Education.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Minimum second class honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject. Applicants should be registered or eligible to register with the General Teaching Council for Scotland. For the PGCert Into Headship, applicants need significant leadership experience, normally within two to three years of taking up a head teacher post, and sponsorship by their local authority through Education Scotland. English language (international applicants): IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each sub-skill. Pearson Test of English (Academic) 62 overall with 60 in each sub-skill. TOEFL exams taken before 21 January 2026: 88 overall with 20 in reading, 19 in writing, 19 in listening and 22 in speaking. TOEFL exams taken from 21 January 2026: 4.5 overall with no less than 4 in any band.

Intake: September 2027

Duration: MSc part-time: 36 months (not continuous)

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