MA Education Policy and Leadership by Research (Online)
The MA in Education Policy and Leadership is an online research degree that explores the challenges facing education systems worldwide.
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Course overview
About the course
Complete a one-year University of Buckingham MA from your country of residence. Designed for working professionals, this fully online research degree combines live Saturday webinars, flexible independent study and individual 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 an independently 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 are under increasing pressure; from widening inequality and resource constraints, to the impact of technologies such as artificial intelligence and ideological debates. Effective leadership and informed policymaking are vital to navigating these challenges. Our MA in Education Policy and Leadership is designed for mid-career professionals who want to engage with these issues at the highest level, using evidence-based approaches to design, critique, and implement education policy.
This fully online programme offers a flexible learning experience, combining live online sessions with self-paced study to fit around your professional commitments.
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 Saturday sessions, while 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 the scheduled sessions.
The curriculum provides a rigorous foundation in education policy analysis, systems leadership, and the socio-political forces shaping schooling and equity worldwide. You will develop advanced skills in research design, critical analysis, and programme evaluation, preparing you to contribute to policy debates and drive change within your professional context.
Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to take on leadership roles across education, consultancy, government, NGOs, and international organisations. For those wishing to deepen their expertise further, successful MA graduates can progress directly into the second year of the Professional Doctorate programme in Public Policy and Political Economy (The University of Buckingham).
View the MA Education Policy and Leadership Course Handbook 2026-27 (PDF)
Course Highlights
- Curriculum focused on real-world education policy and leadership challenges.
- Fully online, flexible study designed for working professionals worldwide.
- Expert-led teaching by education and policy researchers.
- Global cohort and opportunities to network with peers and experts.
- Competitive tuition among the most affordable in the UK.
- Potential progression pathway into Module Four of the University’s Professional Doctorate in Public Policy and Political Economy, subject to the relevant requirements.
Who is this course for?
This programme is designed for:
- Policymakers and civil servants
- School, college and education-system leaders
- Researchers and policy analysts
- NGO and international-development professionals
- Education consultants and programme evaluators
- Think-tank and public-policy staff
- EdTech and education-innovation professionals
- Applicants preparing for doctoral research
Designed for international professionals
The MA is designed to be completed from your country of residence. There is no required campus attendance, relocation or international travel, and students participating fully from overseas do not need a UK visa to attend the online programme. Live webinars are normally scheduled at 09:00 UK time on alternate Saturdays. Between scheduled activities, students organise their reading, research tasks and dissertation work flexibly while meeting the programme’s published assessment deadlines and maintaining regular progress.
Students examine policy through international and regionally varied examples rather than assuming that one national model transfers unchanged to another. They can develop a research project connected to the education challenges, institutions, data and policy priorities of their own country or professional setting. A small cohort, the programme lead, a learning coordinator and dissertation supervision matched to the approved project provide structured academic support.
Programme Leadership
The programme is led by Professor M. Danish Shakeel (Google Scholar), Professor of Education Policy and Director of the Centre for Education Policy at The University of Buckingham. Professor Shakeel’s research examines education policy, school choice, educational inequality, accountability and programme evaluation. Students are supported by academic supervisors with relevant expertise during the dissertation stage.
Possible research areas
Students develop an original research project in consultation with their assigned supervisor or supervisory team. Possible areas include, but are not limited to:
- Educational inequality and social mobility
- School choice and education reform
- Accountability and school improvement
- Education leadership and system governance
- Programme and policy evaluation
- Artificial intelligence and digital technology in education
- Comparative and international education policy
- Curriculum, civic education and religious education
- Education finance and resource allocation
- Teacher policy and workforce development
- Higher-education policy
- Education in developing and emerging economies
Course breakdown
The MA is designed to take students from foundational policy analysis through to independent research and dissertation writing, following a clear and structured progression.
Students begin the programme with twelve online sessions held each Saturday, supported by study via the University’s Moodle platform. This phase builds expertise in education systems, policy frameworks, and research methods, and prepares students for independent study. They will produce a 3,000-4,000-word policy critique before the end of the first term and a 3,000-4,000-word research design proposal or methodology critique by the end of the second term.
In the last term, students move into a research-intensive phase, starting with a 1,000-2,000-word dissertation proposal and defense. Upon approval, they complete a 12,000–15,000-word dissertation, supported by two academic supervisors who provide regular feedback and guidance throughout the term.
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Teaching and assessment
We keep class sizes small so you won’t get lost in the crowd. You will be assigned a personal tutor to support you every step of the way, and our academic and student support teams will ensure you have the tools to succeed in your studies. We value the quality of your learning experience.
Teaching methods
This fully online programme combines live interactive sessions with self-paced study, designed to fit around professional commitments.
The MA begins with twelve live online sessions, normally held on Saturdays. Sessions are led by expert faculty and include presentations, case discussions and guided exercises.
Between sessions, students complete structured readings and research tasks via the University’s Moodle platform, maintaining steady progress with flexible scheduling.
Each group of up to 20 students is supported by a dedicated learning coordinator, providing personalised guidance throughout the programme.
During the dissertation phase, students work closely with two academic supervisors, receiving regular feedback on drafts and taking part in online workshops to present and refine their research.
Students are also invited to sessions and events hosted by the University and the Vinson Centre, creating opportunities to engage with leading researchers and build a global professional network.
This teaching approach blends academic rigour with flexibility and tailored support, helping students thrive.
Assessment Methods
Assessment on this programme is coursework-based, with no written examinations.
Students complete a series of four assignments that build progressively toward the final dissertation.
- Policy Critique: A 3-4,000-word critical analysis of a specific education policy or reform, accounting for 20% of the final grade.
- Research Design Proposal or Methodology Critique: A 3-4,000-word paper outlining a proposed dissertation methodology or critically evaluating research methods used in a policy study (20%).
- Dissertation Proposal and Defence: A 1-2,000-word proposal presented at an online workshop (10%).
- MA Dissertation: A 12-15,000-word original research project contributing 50% of the overall grade.
Each assignment must be passed sequentially with a minimum mark of 50% to progress to the next stage. Students receive detailed written feedback and present their work to supervisors and peers, developing both academic writing and oral communication skills.
After your course
Graduates of the MA in Education Policy and Leadership are well-positioned to advance in their current roles or transition into new positions across education and policy sectors. The programme develops research expertise, policy analysis skills, and leadership capabilities, enabling students to influence education systems locally, nationally, and internationally.
Potential progression pathway into Module Four of the University’s Professional Doctorate in Public Policy and Political Economy subject to the relevant requirements. Those completing the first two assignments but not the dissertation are eligible for a Postgraduate Certificate, with the option to return within three years to complete the full MA.
Here are just some of the career opportunities and skills that can stem from studying on this course:
Career opportunities
- Education policy advisor
- School or college leadership roles
- Education consultant or programme manager
- Researcher in education or public policy
- Curriculum developer or educational strategist
- NGO or international development professional focused on education
- Data analyst in education systems.
Career skills
- Advanced policy analysis
- Research design and independent project management
- Effective communication and presentation skills
- Global awareness of education systems and policy frameworks
- Problem-solving in complex education contexts.
Careers and Employability Support
Our courses strive to effectively combine academic challenge with the transferable skills that will stand you in good stead for future employment. The Buckingham tutorial teaching model means that our students are well prepared as they embark on their careers and future study.
Find out more about our Careers and Employability Service.
Further study
Successful graduates of the MA Education Policy and Leadership by Research may be eligible to enter the Professional Doctorate in Public Policy and Political Economy at Module Four. Entry is subject to the published admissions requirements, University academic regulations, topic approval and the availability of appropriate supervision.
The Professional Doctorate is a part-time programme for people working, or previously working, in public-policy practice. It is delivered mainly online, includes required study weekends in Buckingham, and culminates in an approved research thesis connected to public policy, political economy or the applicant’s professional field.
Find out more about the Professional Doctorate in Public Policy and Political Economy.
“Upon completing my postgraduate degree, I have undoubtedly obtained the necessary independent and research skills to embark on my professional journey. The extensive knowledge I have acquired through this advanced degree sets me apart from other candidates, giving me a distinct advantage.”
Eleanor, Postgraduate student
Entry requirements
See our general University entry requirements for information on flexible entry, mature students and alternative qualifications.
The standard entry requirements for this course are: At least a bachelor’s degree with a 2:1 or above in their first degree.
International Applicants
Find out about our requirements and see useful information for international applicants:
Admission related inquiries about the programme should be sent to the Vinson Centre administrative contact Kate Bones kate.bones@buckingham.ac.uk.
Course fees
The fees for this course are:
| Start | Type | 1st Year | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Month Year Full-time (2 Years) | UK | £00,000 | £00,000 |
| INT | £00,000 | £00,000 | |
Month Year Full-time (2 Years) | UK | £00,000 | £00,000 |
| INT | £00,000 | £00,000 |
The University reserves the right to increase course fees annually in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI). If the University intends to increase your course fees it will notify you via email of this as soon as reasonably practicable.
Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.
Because the programme is fully online, students can participate internationally without the travel, accommodation and relocation costs associated with campus-based study. There is no application fee.
Scholarships and bursaries
How to apply
Apply direct
Apply online from this page as:
- You can apply until shortly before the course starts.
- There are no application fees.
You can apply directly through our website by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ button.