The Open Pathways programme aims to provide students with the opportunity to engage with a number of disciplines that inform educational theory and practice. In addition it aims to equip students with the knowledge and capacity to undertake empirical and/or non-empirical forms of research related to their chosen domain. The course is comprised of a range of modules that reflect the current research and teaching interests within the School of Education. 

The programme is intended for persons who wish to gain a comprehensive and contemporary understanding in a number of disciplines that inform educational theory and practice. It is appropriate for practitioners working at all levels in education (primary, post-primary and tertiary) as well as those who have a professional interest in education. 

Course Details: 

The newly designed Open Pathways offers an exciting opportunity to take full control of your learning journey. With extensive flexibility, you can design a bespoke programme by selecting from over 20 modules that align with your career aspirations and interests.   

At the heart of the new Open Pathways is a strong focus on flexibility and research. You will complete six modules, each worth 10 ECTS, in a highly personalised, blended format. You will engage in two core research modules, gaining deep insights on educational research, as well as four modules, tailored to your areas of interest within the educational landscape. 

Whether you aim to engage with educational policy, language, the arts, psychology, diversity and inclusion, science or mathematics in education, you will have the tools to make a meaningful impact. Tailor your experience to suit your interests, choosing either in-person or online options, and create a learning experience that works best for you. This is your chance to diversify your expertise and shape your educational future.  

If you choose the Open Pathways, you will complete:   

• Two core research modules, ‘Academic Literacy’ and ‘Research Methods’.  

• Two core subject modules (one per semester), choosing from our key pathways: Arts Education, Inclusion Education, Higher Education, Language Education, Leadership and Policy, Mathematics Education, Psychology of Education, Science Education and Critical Perspectives. 

• Two choice modules (one per semester), selecting from over 20 unique modules within the key pathways above, to tailor your learning to your interests.  

Amounting to 60 ECTS (six 10-ECTS modules), plus:  

The Dissertation, focused on a research area of your choice, aligned with your core academic interests (30 ECTS).  

The Open Pathways option is designed for individuals interested in an interdisciplinary approach, exploring multiple subject areas in the field of education, focusing on a combination of key pathways: 

• Arts Education 

• Assessment and ICT in Education 

• Higher Education 

• Inclusive Education 

• Language Education 

• Leadership and Policy 

• Mathematics Education 

• Music in Education 

• Philosophy and Social Policy in Education 

• Psychology of Education 

• Science and Society 

Pathway Co-ordinator: Dr Michelle Share 

All modules are assessed throughout the semester (In class assessments). There are no formal exams.  

Timetables vary on module selection – most classes will run mid-week.