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This is the first and only distance learning MA Character Education course in the world – focusing on the theory and practice of human flourishing. The course adopts a broad understanding of character – encompassing aspects of wellbeing, ethics, citizenship and social and emotional education.

This distance learning Masters course will enable you to develop your knowledge and expertise in the field of character education, learning alongside professionals who are interested in human flourishing from around the world in a dynamic online learning community. The course will cover a range of topics, including: theories of flourishing; researching character education; the history and politics of character education; leadership in character education; and, running character interventions in schools.

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 main features of the course are:

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.

Employability

The MA Character Education has been developed in response to the overwhelming interest in character education (and associated concerns such as wellbeing, social mobility and ethics) around the world. Completion of the Programme will ensure that you will further your understanding of this area and will gain the knowledge and experience to implement informed change in your own organisation.

Profiles of students on the Programme vary. Current students include headteachers, deputy headteachers and assistant headteachers who want to transform their school through character education; teachers who have taken character lead positions in their schools; recent graduates looking for further studies in education; individuals looking for foundational learning for a PhD; individuals running and working for charities and not for profit businesses; and parents looking to further their theoretical and / or practical enhanced knowledge about character.