Applied Educational Leadership and Management

The MSc in Applied Educational Leadership and Management at University College London is a comprehensive program designed to equip aspiring educational leaders with the essential skills, knowledge, and practical experience necessary to lead and manage educational institutions effectively. This advanced qualification aims to develop strategic thinking, innovative problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of educational policies, organizational dynamics, and leadership theories. The program is tailored for educators, managers, and administrators seeking to enhance their leadership capacities within schools, colleges, universities, and other educational settings. Throughout the course, students engage with diverse topics such as curriculum development, change management, educational policy analysis, and leadership ethics, enabling them to address complex challenges faced by modern educational environments. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, encouraging participants to critically analyze current issues and implement effective solutions in their professional contexts. Delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, and collaborative projects, the MSc fosters a dynamic learning environment that promotes intellectual curiosity, ethical leadership, and a commitment to educational equity. Students benefit from UCL’s rich academic resources, expert faculty, and close interactions with industry practitioners. The program also offers opportunities for networking, professional development, and research, preparing graduates for leadership roles that can influence positive change in educational systems locally and globally. With graduates poised to take on senior administrative positions or to undertake further academic research, this program represents an excellent pathway to advancing careers in educational leadership and management.

As an applied programme, this MA will improve a student's understanding of educational management and leadership whilst enabling them to apply theory and research to their own working environment. It will foster a student's continuing professional development, allowing them to consider issues related to the policy context of education. It will also give them the chance to contribute towards the improvement of educational systems and institutions.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of two core modules (60 credits), two optional modules (60 credits), and a dissertation (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits) consisting of two core modules (60 credits) and two optional modules (60 credits) is also offered.

A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits) consisting of two core modules is also offered.

Core modules

• Leadership for the Learning Community
• Learning and Managing Educational Change and Improvement

Optional modules

Students choose two of the following:

• Developing Personal Leadership Skills
• Exploring Educational Policy
• Finance and Resource Management
• Values, Vision and Moral Purpose

Dissertation/report

All students submit a dissertation of 15,000 words.

Teaching and learning

This programme is delivered via online learning, allowing you to study flexibly whilst balancing work and personal commitments. 
The learning strategy for this programme is collaborative in that students share their skills and experience with others. Students are supported by an online learning environment which incorporates focused conferencing and work spaces linked to specific activities for each module. There are also informal discussion areas and links to online resources including library support. Study materials and readings are provided. 
Study time is estimated at about 10-15 hours a week.

A minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard, in any subject, and at least two years' relevant work experience. Word processing, Internet and email skills are all basic requirements of this programme. You must have regular access to a computer (or mobile device*) with an internet connection to use the University of London International Programmes website and the Student Portal. These are where your programme's study resources are located. (*Full mobile access is not available for all programmes).

The MSc in Applied Educational Leadership and Management at University College London offers a comprehensive overview of the financial aspects related to the program. The total tuition fees for the academic year are specified on the university’s official website and may vary depending on the student’s residency status. For the majority of international students, the tuition fee for full-time study is approximately £24,000 per year, while for home students, it is around £13,000 annually. These fees cover tuition, access to university facilities, and participation in academic activities.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider other costs such as accommodation, living expenses, study materials, and personal expenses. UCL recommends budgeting approximately £1,300 to £1,700 per month for living costs in London, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure activities. Accommodation options vary, with student halls and private rentals being popular choices. The university provides guidance on funding options, including scholarships, bursaries, and financial support schemes.

Many students finance their studies through a combination of personal savings, family support, bank loans, and government funding programs. International students may also be eligible for scholarships that reduce tuition costs or provide living stipends. UCL offers a range of bursaries specifically for postgraduate students, based on academic merit and financial need. Moreover, students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities and part-time work options permitted under UK visa regulations, which allow international students to work up to 20 hours per week during term time.

Funding applications can usually be submitted upon application to the program, with deadlines aligned to the university’s admissions schedule. It is essential for prospective students to review specific eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines on the UCL funding webpage. Students should also note that tuition fees are typically payable in installments over the academic year, with options for payment plans available. The university’s financial services department provides further assistance for any queries related to tuition fee payments, financial planning, or support options. Overall, financing studies at UCL requires careful planning, considering both tuition fees and additional living costs, along with exploring all available funding opportunities to make education at this prestigious institution accessible.

The MSc in Applied Educational Leadership and Management at University College London is a comprehensive programme designed to equip future educational leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage and lead educational organizations effectively. This programme emphasizes the development of leadership capabilities in diverse educational settings, including schools, colleges, and other educational institutions. It focuses on applied management skills, strategic planning, policy analysis, and leadership theories, enabling students to address complex challenges in education.

The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications, encouraging students to critically evaluate current educational practices and policies. Core modules typically cover topics such as organizational leadership, change management, educational policy, governance, and research methods. Students also have opportunities to engage in research projects and case studies, which foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills relevant to real-world educational contexts.

Delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual or group coursework, the programme promotes interactive learning and professional development. It may include guest lectures from experienced educational leaders, fostering networking opportunities and insights into contemporary issues in education. The programme is suitable for teaching staff, school administrators, policymakers, and other education professionals looking to enhance their leadership competence.

Graduates of the MSc Applied Educational Leadership and Management can pursue careers as educational leaders, school principals, educational consultants, policy advisors, or in managerial positions within educational organizations. The programme also provides a solid foundation for those intending to undertake doctoral research in education. Its focus on practical skills, leadership, and strategic thinking makes it highly relevant to the evolving landscape of education management globally.

UCL's commitment to research-based teaching and its innovative approach to education ensure that students are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to their organizations and to the broader field of education. The programme benefits from UCL’s extensive academic resources, strong international network, and a vibrant community of educators and researchers dedicated to educational excellence and leadership development.