Subject Matter Expert Post Graduate Education
Department: Higher Education Services
Reporting to: Programme Leader
Type: Contractor / Freelance

At FutureLearn, we’re passionate about the power of lifelong learning. We help learners from all over the world progress in their careers – and invest in their futures.

We truly believe that up-skilling is a worthy investment, and we hope to empower our learners to take control of their careers through personalised learning pathways – giving them progress at their fingertips.

Partnering with 260+ world-class educational partners, including prestigious universities, global brands and industry partners, we offer our 20 million-strong learner community the opportunity to discover and access flexible, high-quality online courses and degrees.

We’re not here just to teach new skills (although we do that well), we want to help transform lives. FutureLearn is looking to build our teams with people who share our passion for lifelong learning, career empowerment and education for all. If that sounds like you, get in touch. You could help us achieve our biggest goal yet – becoming the world’s best AI-powered, career-based learning platform and OPM.

About the role
We are seeking a Subject Matter Expert to design and develop high-quality learning modules and assessments within their specialist area.

This role focuses on translating expert knowledge into engaging, accessible learning content aligned to defined learning outcomes and industry standards. You will work collaboratively with Learning Designers, content teams, and Programme Leaders to ensure content is pedagogically robust, accurate, and relevant for adult learners.

This is an ideal opportunity for professionals with strong subject expertise and a passion for education to contribute to impactful, high-quality learning experiences.

Key responsibilities

• Develop structured module content aligned to agreed learning objectives and curriculum frameworks

• Produce clear, engaging, and original learning materials tailored to the target audience

• Collaborate with Learning Designers and content teams to ensure strong pedagogical design

• Create supporting materials such as case studies, activities, assessments, or multimedia content

• Ensure content reflects current industry practice, research, and relevant regulations

• Respond to feedback and revise materials within agreed timelines

• Maintain high standards of quality, accessibility, and inclusivity

• Attend planning meetings and contribute to the development process

• Ensure alignment with agreed timelines, word counts, and style guidelines

What we’re looking for

• Recognised expertise in your subject area (academic, professional, or industry-based)

• Experience applying your knowledge in practice

• Experience writing for education, training, or professional audiences

• Strong understanding of adult learning principles

• Excellent written communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex concepts

• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage deadlines

• Collaborative mindset and ability to work with cross-functional teams

• Detail-oriented, with a focus on quality and accuracy

Desirable

• Experience developing accredited or assessed learning modules

• Familiarity with learning design principles or frameworks

• Experience creating content for online or blended learning environments

• Knowledge of accessibility standards and inclusive content practices

• Teaching or training experience

Deliverables

• Complete, high-quality module content and assessment materials

• Supporting resources and referenced content where appropriate

• Revised drafts in response to editorial and instructional feedback

• Compliance with academic and quality assurance standards

Working arrangements

• Reporting to the Programme Leader (or nominee)

• Engagement timelines and schedules agreed prior to commencement

• Ongoing collaboration and communication throughout the project

What happens next?

Ready to go for it? Click 'Apply', include your CV and tell us why you'd like to become a FutureLearner, and how you’ll nail this role.

Recruitment Process

Please contact jobs@futurelearn.com if you require any reasonable adjustments or alterations to be made to support you through the recruitment process.

Diversity Statement

We value all the great benefits that diversity brings and encourage everyone to bring their whole self to work – At FutureLearn we are proud to have Diversity and Inclusion at the centre of everything we do. We are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity regardless of race, colour, national origin, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or religion.

We can't wait to meet you! #FutureLearnCareers