Norwich University

What you'll study

The programme blends foundations of education, subject-specific teaching methods and structured practicum experiences to develop pedagogical skill and reflective practice. You will study how learners develop across age ranges, how to design inclusive curricula, and how assessment informs teaching. Course topics typically include:

• Foundations of Education: history, philosophy and sociology of education; theories of learning and development.
• Child and Adolescent Development: cognitive, social and emotional development relevant to classroom practice.
• Curriculum and Instruction: curriculum design, lesson planning, differentiation and classroom management strategies.
• Subject Methods: practical methods for teaching specific levels and curriculum areas (for example primary literacy and numeracy, or secondary subject pedagogy).
• Assessment and Data Use: formative and summative assessment, feedback strategies, and use of assessment data to shape instruction.
• Inclusion and SEND: strategies for teaching diverse learners, adapting materials and working with specialist services.
• Educational Technology: digital tools for teaching, blended learning design and e‑safety.
• Professional Development and Leadership: adult learning theory, mentoring, continuing professional development (CPD) design and school improvement approaches.
• Research Methods: introductory educational research, enquiry-based projects and reflective portfolios.
• Practicum / Student Teaching: sustained placements in partner schools across different age ranges and settings, with mentor supervision and formative assessment.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold secondary school qualifications equivalent to a high school diploma. Typical entry expects evidence of academic achievement plus a commitment to working with children or young people, demonstrated through experience, references or a personal statement. Admissions processes usually include:

• Academic transcripts or qualifications demonstrating readiness for undergraduate study.
• A personal statement outlining motivation for teaching and relevant experience.
• References, preferably including an academic referee and one who can comment on work with young people.
• An interview or admissions task to assess communication skills and suitability for placement-based learning.
• Satisfactory background checks and any required health or safeguarding clearances prior to school placements.

Career prospects

Graduates typically progress into classroom teaching roles, often undertaking the necessary teacher licensure or certification in their jurisdiction after graduation. Other career paths include roles as teaching assistants, curriculum developers, special educational needs coordinators, professional development coordinators within schools or local authorities, educational consultants, and further study toward leadership or specialist routes (for example school leadership, educational psychology or subject-specific postgraduate qualifications). The programme’s emphasis on practicum and CPD design also suits those aiming to work in teacher training or continuing professional development providers.

Why study at Norwich University

Norwich University offers a personalised learning environment with small cohorts and close faculty mentoring, making it suited to practice-based professional preparation. The university’s emphasis on leadership and experiential learning means students gain substantial school placement experience and opportunities to design and evaluate professional development activities. Partnerships with local schools provide varied practicum settings, and dedicated career services and faculty support help graduates prepare for certification processes and teaching careers or further professional study.