Choosing a Course

How you choose a course depends, to some extent, on what you want to do with it. If you see educational studies as a way of becoming a teacher, check if there is any provision for transfer after graduation to a teacher education programme taught in the same department or institution. It might also be advisable, if you want to teach in a school, to take a joint degree in educational studies and a school subject, not a whole degree in educational studies.

If you want to study education, in the broader sense, then look at the topics covered by both the choice within your course and the research, specialisations or publications of the teaching staff (while also making sure that the research and publications don't take up so much of their time that they don't have any left for you).

The broader the range of choices, the more rounded the degree, but that's of no use if there's a particular area you find fascinating, but which isn't offered. Institutions that make good use of virtual learning environments will also better prepare you for e-learning topics, which will be increasingly important in the world of educational studies. So make sure they have good computer rooms with sufficient access and back-up. You don't want to spend half your time waiting for a free workstation.

As with most degrees with a vocational bias, there may be some opportunities for work placement, which will be invaluable in helping you choose what direction to take after graduation. After all, even if you hate your placement, that can be a good way of ruling out a post-graduation option. Ask about these opportunities - some may be able to arrange them even if there is no formal provision.

Click here to read more from InterStudent.co.uk