Queen's University Belfast United Kingdom

Educational Leadership MSc

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Educational Leadership MSc at Queen's University Belfast is designed for aspiring and current educational professionals seeking to enhance their capacity to lead and manage change within diverse educational settings. You will explore critical theories of leadership, focusing on how to foster environments that support student potential and staff development. This postgraduate programme is ideal for teachers, middle and senior leaders, and policy makers who aim to inform their practice with research evidence and drive meaningful improvements in equity, diversity, and educational outcomes across schools and broader systems.

This full-time, on-campus Masters degree is typically studied over one year, immersing you in core modules such as Research Methods, Leadership in Practice, and Leadership for School Improvement. You will have the opportunity to delve into optional areas like Special Needs Education and Inclusion, Digital Literacy, or Education Policy. Throughout the course, you will develop your ability to critique leadership practices and engage in action research, culminating in a significant dissertation. You will graduate with advanced skills in leadership, change management, and evidence-based practice, preparing you for impactful roles in educational leadership.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSc in Educational Leadership equips students with essential research skills and theoretical knowledge to drive improvement and change within educational settings. The program delves into practical leadership applications, exploring various theoretical perspectives and focusing on school improvement strategies. Students will engage with contemporary issues in education, including special needs, digital literacy, and policy analysis, culminating in a significant dissertation project.

1 Year 1

An Introduction to Research Methods: Children, Young People and Education Compulsory
Leadership in Practice Compulsory
Leadership for School Improvement and Change Compulsory
Dissertation Compulsory
Leadership: Theoretical Perspectives Compulsory
Deconstructing Special Needs Education and Inclusion Optional
Social Justice in Special Needs Education and Inclusion: A Capability Approach Optional
Digital Literacy and Communication Optional
E-learning: Concepts and Pract Optional
Bilingualism, Literacy and Disciplinary Literacy Development Optional
Education Policy & Society: analysing reform and ideology Optional
Behaviour Change in Education and Supervising Others Optional
Curriculum: Theory, Policy and Practice Optional
Reflective Practice and Action Research Optional
Fundamental elements of behaviour change Optional
Epistemic Injustice: The Ethics of Knowing in Special Educational Needs/ Inclusion Optional
Understanding Children with ASD Optional
Understanding Adults with ASD Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

26% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,974.00 USD 31,089.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 22,974.00 USD 31,089.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 785.00 - USD 1,416.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 7,249.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 4,833.00
Estimated Total USD 9,667.00 - USD 15,304.00

Living cost estimates are based on Belfast Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

89%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingAdvertising Finance & OperationsBanking & Financial ServicesCreative Production & Project ManagementDigital MarketingEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionHealthcare Administration & ManagementReal Estate DevelopmentSocial Media & Community ManagementSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

CCEA

Citi

European commission

United Nations

Why Study Educational Leadership MSc at Queen's University Belfast

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Queen's University Belfast in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Educational Leadership MSc at Queen's University Belfast

Can I work while studying?

International students on degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during the term. They may also work full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, a minimum Duolingo score of 120 is required, along with specific scores in other areas. Alternatives include a TOEFL score of 90 overall and an IELTS score of 6.5.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as school principal, educational consultant, curriculum coordinator, academic director, or teacher leader.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course emphasizes adaptable leadership and the importance of collaboration in educational settings. Key topics include emotional intelligence and the role of leaders in managing change within schools.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The next intake for the Educational Leadership MSc program is in September. Ensure you prepare your application well in advance to meet the deadline.
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