MA Philosophy of Education

Course Overview

Philosophy of Education at Winchester enables you to develop your knowledge of educational philosophy. You explore theory, policy, and practice as they relate to your intellectual curiosity and/or your current and future professional roles. You are introduced to a diverse range of theoretical perspectives and methodological approaches and encouraged to enhance your analytical and research skills.

The philosophy of education is about asking the most important questions that inform educational debate today: What is education? What are its aims? What kind of education do we need? For whom? Can education make us into better individuals, or cure societal problems? This course examines the ways in which a variety of philosophical ideas and resources can be drawn upon to evaluate contemporary and historical educational concerns more profoundly. Along with an introduction to the field of contemporary philosophies of education, we consider questions of the social, ethical and aesthetic dimensions of education, drawing on canonical and present-day texts, as well as case studies, film, literature, and personal experience, to enhance our appreciation of policy and practice.

The programme prepares graduates to pursue or advance careers in any profession with an educational component or context. While the most obvious examples include the areas of teaching, educational management and policy, disability and professions that involve care and service, the programme seeks to produce graduates who would be able to apply transfer their knowledge, skills, and understanding to a wide variety of sectors, including business, charity work, and arts & culture. The programme also provides a firm foundation for those interested in undertaking a postgraduate research degree.