What Can I do With an Education Degree?

Thinking about getting an education degree but not sure what doors it will open up for you? You’re not alone. Many students are keen to get a full picture of what their future might look like in teaching or related roles. Today we’ll give you an overview of this critical field, what you can do with an education degree and possible career paths you could follow. So, scroll down, read on and get ready to learn all about the field of education.

What is Education?

Education (and the education system) is the way we systematically instruct people with specific or general knowledge, skills in reasoning and prepare them for later life. As such, there are a lot of places to learn in the UK. We teach children in nurseries, prep schools and at faith schools across the country. Kids can get an education at state-funded or independent schools too. And in the later years, young people and adults can go to university or take advanced training from trade institutions and more. So, when you work in teaching and its surrounding disciplines, there are a vast number of opportunities available nationwide.

What is an Education Degree?

When you get an education degree like the BA (Hons) in Education and Learning, you’re taking a structured course designed to give you the tools and knowledge needed to shape lives. Most courses include a foundation in the history, policies, psychology and sociology of learning in this country and worldwide. Courses like these prepare you for QTS or to go right into entry-level employment. And, when you study for your education degree at Bolton, you’ll have the chance to participate in placements within a classroom setting so you can get direct experience. This is really important. Having that face-to-face time with other teachers and students will help to cement your future career plans. You’ll have the chance to see what you love about teaching and where your passions really lie.

What Can I Do with an Education Degree?

According to UCAS, “89.4% of [education] graduates went directly into employment.” So, there are definitely amazing opportunities out there. With so many jobs within this sector that benefit from an education degree, you could become a(n):

- Learning Consultant

- Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO)

- Teaching Assistant

- Further Education Teacher

- Community Learning Officer

- Tutor

- Primary School Teacher

- Secondary School Teacher

- And so much more

But you don’t have to work in teaching with an education degree. Many businesses are looking for advisors, recruiters, consultants and HR specialists with a foundation in learning. Or, if you fancy working for yourself, you could use the practical skills and knowledge gained to open your own institution or create your own agency. Don’t forget that whatever role you choose, you’ll be making a difference in people’s lives and that’s the most important thing any of us can do.

What is the Highest Paying Job With an Education Degree?

While it will take time and experience to work up to the roles which pay the most for those with an education degree, the wait is worth it. Listed by Oneducation.org as one of the highest-paying roles in all of the UK, Professors are well-remunerated. The pay scale ranges from £59k-100k; depending on qualifications. Professors will have at least one education degree and usually a PhD as well. But even if you’re just starting out, holding an education degree makes for a rewarding career in teaching. Under proposed government plans, the starting pay for all new teachers will rise 7.1% to £30k. And that’s in addition to other benefits like a rewarding career, good work-life balance and great retention rates.

What Can I Do With a Teaching Degree if I Don’t Want to Teach in the UK?

If you don’t want to teach but you have an education degree, you could look at roles where your skills and knowledge are also useful. This could be consulting for a business that sells to schools, working as a Careers Advisor, Counsellor, Play Therapist, Youth Worker, Family Support Worker and more. You might find a great career as an HR Executive, Health Play Specialist or even start your very own consultancy. You could use that foundation as a jumping-off point for further study too, earning a PhD or similar. Overall, there’s a lot you can do with a teaching degree even if you do not want to teach.

Manchester Education Jobs

If you’re thinking of taking an education degree and you live close to Manchester, there are a lot of jobs on offer from great local institutions with new ones popping up all the time. You could be a Science Teacher at Dixons Brooklands Academy, educating children 11-19 years old or the Head Teacher at Pikes Lane Primary School right here in Bolton, shaping little minds. Or maybe you’d like to explore a role within our own School of Education and Psychology? We love hiring alumni! 

Perhaps you want to work in the city centre for a ground-breaking tech company in their learning and development department. There are clusters of exciting businesses all over Manchester and the North West. So, whatever role you decide to pursue, know there are amazing jobs ready and waiting for your talent pretty close by. And don’t forget entrepreneurship! An education degree is a great foundation for your very own venture too.

Have you decided to take minds under your wing and join the ranks of the UK’s amazing teachers and educators? At Bolton University, we offer award-winning education degree courses in an inclusive and supportive environment. Our small class sizes mean you get more one on one time and we’ll never, ever treat you like just a student number. 

Ready to take the leap? Email us at enquiries@bolton.ac.uk or call +44 1204 903142 to speak to a member of the team. Get your education degree at Bolton University, where it’s always #UniAsItShouldBe!