Course summary

The MA Character Education focuses on character education and the theory and practice of human flourishing. It is a three-year part-time distance learning MA and the first of its kind to focus on this topic.. The course adopts a broad understanding of character – encompassing aspects of wellbeing, ethics, citizenship and social and emotional education. The MA Character Education enables you to develop your knowledge and expertise in your field of character education. You will learn alongside professionals within a dynamic online learning community. The course covers a range of topics, including: theories of character, virtue and flourishing; researching character education; the history and politics of character education; running character education interventions; and character education leadership in schools and organisations. The course is run by The Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues based at the University of Birmingham. The Centre is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s foremost research and teaching centres specialising in the examination of how character and virtues impact on individuals and society. You will be taught by some of the best-known names in character education, both in Britain and internationally. The MA Character Education is:

• It is multi-disciplinary – it includes learning from the fields of education, philosophy, (positive) psychology, sociology, social sciences and theology

• It is flexible – the learning is guided but students can work through it at their own pace

• It is suitable for professionals seeking to transform their organisation or career, or individuals looking for a foundation for further postgraduate study such as a PhD

• It utilises the latest technology to ensure an engaging and participatory online learning experience

• It provides a supportive learning environment – all students have a dedicated personal tutor

• It is focused on the contexts in which students work – the assignments and dissertations can be directed towards students’ personal and professional interests in the field

• It is collaborative – students have the opportunity to work alongside and learn from fellow students from around the world

• Most importantly it is practice focused – the learning contributes to making a difference. It helps students to play their part in transforming people, organisations and places.