Primary Education Studies

Why study Primary Education Studies at ARU?

• Shape the future of education while broadening your career options.
• Go beyond traditional classroom learning to explore education in its widest context.
• Delve into a variety of subjects, including sociology, policy, sustainability, globalisation, technology, and social justice.
• Engage with significant global debates and values underpinning the nature and role of education in society.
• ARU is the only new accredited University provider of teacher training in the UK.
• We have over 20 years’ experience of training education professionals.

Our BA (Hons) Primary Education Studies allows you to delve into a variety of subjects, including sociology, policy, sustainability, globalisation, technology, and social justice, with a key focus on children in the Primary age range.

You’ll also engage with significant global debates and values underpinning the nature and role of education in society, develop critical and reflective thinking skills, and gain the knowledge and tools needed to pursue various career paths within the field of education with a specific focus on Primary teaching.

Study at a university ranked 13th in the country for Education in the Guardian League Table 2025 and in the top 10% in the country for graduate employment (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2024).

You’ll develop your understanding of the complex body of knowledge and skills relating to the education, development and care of children and young people across a range of formal and informal settings. Some of this will be at the current boundaries of educational research and practice.

You'll also take part in live briefs to gain work experience and extend your professional network, like our recent partnership with Chelmsford Museum, Fitzwilliam Museum, and Scott Polar Museum.

What can you do with a Primary Education Studies degree?

Throughout your studies, you’ll develop analytical techniques and problem-solving skills that can be applied to the professions associated with the education, development and care of children and young people in a range of settings. You’ll be able to evaluate and reflect on evidence, arguments and assumptions, to reach measured judgements and communicate them effectively.

After graduating you’ll have the qualities needed for employment in a range of professional contexts associated with the education, development and care of children, young people and adults.

You might also want to continue on to a Masters course, such as one of our MA Education degrees, which include options to specialise in leadership and management, SEND, and Montessori settings, or our PGCE. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship to get 20% off your fees.

Employability and personal career development

Informed by employers, our courses support an integrated approach to employability. You’ll have opportunities to develop the skills and abilities they are looking for and gain a deeper understanding of how your academic learning relates to the world of work through Live Briefs and Ruskin Modules.

To amplify your career ambition, you will need to actively dedicate time outside of your studies, whether you choose to explore placements, internships or volunteering. Or you could make a social impact by collaborating with our partner organisations through our volunteer scheme Students at the Heart of Knowledge Exchange (SHoKE). These all give you an edge, providing you with experience that you will be able to evidence on your CV and talk about in interviews.

Our Employability and Careers Service offers a range of expert advice and support to build your unique professional profile, including tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, and help to complete job applications. You’ll have 24/7 access to the Careers Centre, our comprehensive online digital resource, which empowers you to start building a Personal Career Development Plan from the very start. Design your future at ARU.