Educational Theory

Educational Theory Master's Programme

This master’s programme is geared toward students interested in better understanding the role of education in relation to the formation of individuals and society, and exploring the study of education through historical and contemporary perspectives. The programme aims to provide you with in-depth knowledge of international educational theory as well as the opportunity to pursue a research career in the field. The programme has a philosophical and historical foundation. Central concepts that will be discussed include education, upbringing, fostering, teaching, schooling and different conceptions of the role of the teacher.

As a student, you will be introduced to significant ideas and theories in the history of educational theory as well as how these ideas influence contemporary education. By working dialectically and critically, you will develop your analytical and conceptual skills through lectures, readings, seminars, and workshops. Theoretical perspectives will be discussed in relation to concrete examples chosen by both teachers and students.

During the programme, you will critically explore the history and theories of different practices of schooling and educational technologies. At the same time, you will deepen your understanding of education in terms of complex processes of personal change and interpersonal influence. You will explore the relationships between education and political action and between educational autonomy and political dependency. You will also be given the opportunity to study different research methodologies relevant for educational theory, as well as the philosophy of science underpinning these methods.

The first semester revolves around the question of what education is, investigating its intellectual history and different educational practices.

The second semester is dedicated to understanding and challenging foundational ideas about what it is to become formed through education and the boundaries between education, formation, upbringing, and fostering.

The focus of the third semester is on explicating and critically evaluating the contested relationship between education and politics.

In addition to the above, the first three semesters will also allow you to study research methodology, including philosophy of science, research ethics and academic writing within the field of educational theory.

During the fourth and final semester you will write a master’s thesis as well as participate in seminars discussing texts in progress.

Master's Degree (120 credits).

Upon completion of the programme, the requirements for the Degree of Master (120 credits) will be fulfilled.
Malmö University will issue a degree certificate upon application. The degree certificate will state the titles
Masterexamen med huvudområde pedagogik med inriktning mot utbildningsteori.
Degree of Master of Arts (120 credits) with a Major in Education with a Specialization in Educational Theory

The focus of the programme is to train your theoretical and analytical abilities. The coursework will help you to better understand and critically reflect upon education, regardless of your future role within the education system. You will also be prepared for future doctoral studies, leading to careers within education or research.

The programme is part of an active research environment at the Faculty of Education and Society that includes the research groups Philosophical Studies of Education and Childhood and Education. These groups regularly invite speakers to seminars that students are encouraged to participate in. Several researchers in these groups also teach within the programme. The master’s degree will also qualify you for work in the field of education for both public and private organisations — national as well as international.