Lead schools and learning organisations with evidence and empathy
Online only
Effective education leaders combine pedagogical expertise with organisational acumen. This MA covers school improvement, curriculum design, inclusive education, and education finance. You will analyse case studies from UK academies, African community schools, and international baccalaureate networks. Modules on coaching, conflict resolution, and community engagement prepare you for the human side of leadership. A school improvement project forms the capstone assessment.
Cohorts are practising teachers and leaders — discussions draw on your school context daily. The capstone is a live improvement plan for your institution, mentored by a serving headteacher. EdTech leadership modules cover AI policy and safeguarding.
Faculty spotlight
Headteacher-in-residence Emma Laurent coaches school improvement; Professor Alex Morgan researches rural education access in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Interactive modules, weekly readings, recorded and live seminars, and collaborative discussions with peers worldwide.
Module assignments, proctored examinations, and capstone projects designed to demonstrate mastery of the field.
Modules are assessed through a published mix of coursework, applied projects, and examinations. Exam windows are announced in advance so students in other time zones are not forced into overnight sittings. Alternative arrangements are available where documented.
The published duration is 24 months. Teaching language: English. Actual time-to-complete depends on mode and any recognised prior learning.
This is a fully online award. You study from your country. No student visa and no campus relocation are required.
Degree tuition for this award is published as £0 / tuition-free on the online pathway. Examination or administrative fees may apply at checkout — never an annual tuition invoice. Check the Fees page for any extras.
Requirements are grouped on this page (academic, English, documents). Equivalent qualifications are considered. English may be waived after prior English-medium study.
Assessment is typically a mix of coursework, projects, and examinations. Doctoral awards include a thesis or dissertation and an oral examination. Details sit in the programme specification and module outlines.
Recognition of the award for local employment, professional licence, or ministry attestation is decided by your employer or regulator. The University of Edinburgh publishes verification pages for certificates. We do not claim automatic equivalence in every country.
Start an application on this website. Progress is saved from the first step. Admissions: admissions@edinac.uk.
Study online
Every programme can be completed fully online with zero tuition fees — study from anywhere in the world.
Accreditation & recognition
