MA Education Policy and Leadership by Research (Online)

University of Buckingham

Complete a one-year University of Buckingham MA from your country of residence. Designed for working professionals, this fully online research degree combines live webinars on alternate Saturdays, flexible independent study and dissertation supervision. You will use evidence to analyse education systems, evaluate policy and investigate a question that matters in your own professional or national context. Unlike a conventional taught master’s degree composed of multiple subject modules, this research-led MA combines structured online training in education policy and research methods with a supervised dissertation. Students first complete a policy critique and a research design or methodology paper before developing an original research project on an education-policy or leadership question relevant to their interests or professional context. Education systems worldwide face widening inequality, resource constraints, technological change, including artificial intelligence, and continuing ideological debate. Effective leadership and informed policymaking are vital to navigating these challenges.Although formally designated as a full-time programme, the MA is delivered entirely online and is structured for professionals studying alongside employment. Live teaching is concentrated in twelve webinars, normally held at 09:00 UK time on alternate Saturdays. Readings, research tasks and dissertation work are completed independently through flexible online study. Students should plan regular weekly study time throughout the year and maintain steady progress between scheduled sessions.The curriculum provides a rigorous foundation in education policy analysis, systems leadership and the social and political forces shaping education and equity worldwide. You will develop advanced skills in research design, critical analysis and programme evaluation, preparing you to contribute to policy debates within your professional context.