UNIVERSITY OF SHEFFIELD · UNITED KINGDOM
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
Certificate · Taught in en
At a glance
43 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Certificate
Level
- 43 weeksTotal duration
- September 2026Start date
- Secondary (11-19)Age range
- 60 Master's credits includedAcademic value
- Outstanding Ofsted rating for secondary teacher trainingQuality assurance
This Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) program is designed to equip qualified teachers with essential knowledge in planning, teaching, learning, assessment, and educational policies. The course focuses on secondary education (ages 11-19) and incorporates research-led, reflective practices to bridge theory and classroom application. Graduates gain a PGCE qualification, Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), and 60 Master's credits that can be applied towards an MA Applied Professional Studies in Education. The program aims to foster lifelong learning and professional development, preparing educators for effective and research-informed teaching.
Curriculum
The PGCE program offers specialized training in various subjects for teaching 11- to 19-year-olds. The curriculum emphasizes a research-based approach, critical reflection, and practical classroom experience. Modules are designed to be practical and workshop-based, encouraging the application of teaching ideas and analysis of educational theories. Specific subject pathways are available, each with a tailored approach to curriculum content and teaching methodologies.
- 43 weeks
- English Language and Literature Studies
- Teaching of English
- Geography Curriculum and Pedagogy
- History Curriculum and Pedagogy
- Mathematics Curriculum and Pedagogy
- Languages Curriculum and Pedagogy
- Science Curriculum and Pedagogy
- Educational and Professional Studies
Careers
Graduates of this PGCE program are prepared to become qualified teachers, equipped with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and pedagogical skills for secondary education. The course emphasizes developing teachers who are dedicated to lifelong learning and professional practice.
- Secondary School Teacher
- Subject Specialist Teacher (e.g., English, Geography, History, Maths, Languages, Science)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the PGCE programme?
- You need a relevant Bachelor's degree, predominantly in the subject you wish to teach. For example, an English degree must be primarily in Language or Literature. You also need an IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in each component.
- How long does the PGCE programme take to complete?
- The programme is designed to be completed in 43 weeks, starting in September 2026.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Specific international tuition fees for 2026-27 are not detailed on the provided pages and should be sought directly from the university or the relevant course page.
- What are the career prospects after completing this PGCE?
- Graduates are prepared to become qualified teachers in secondary education (ages 11-19), equipped with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Roles include Secondary School Teacher or Subject Specialist Teacher.
- How do I apply for the PGCE programme?
- You should check the entry requirements, prepare necessary documents like degree transcripts and English language test results, and then submit your application through the University of Sheffield's online portal. Early registration of interest is recommended.
- Does the programme offer any Master's credits?
- Yes, upon successful completion, you will gain 60 Master's credits which can be applied towards an MA Applied Professional Studies in Education.
Entry requirements
Relevant Bachelor's DegreeA degree predominantly in the subject you wish to teach (e.g., for English, a degree primarily in Language or Literature; for Geography, at least 50% of the degree must be in Geography). For other related degrees, evidence of strong engagement with the subject matter and wide reading is required. Degrees should typically include content suitable for teaching up to A Level. Specific degree balance and results will be considered.
IELTS (or equivalent)Minimum overall score of 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in each component.
Some academic departments may require a higher score. Applications for Geography are not accepted from applicants who require a Visa to study in the UK. Successful completion of a first degree taught in English in a majority native English-speaking country may waive the English language requirement. The University of Sheffield International College offers pathway programmes for students who do not meet the academic or English language requirements.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the course page for specific international tuition fees for 2026-27.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the course page for specific home/domestic tuition fees for 2026-27.
LivingEstimated living costs for 2026/27 are not specified on the provided pages.
Tuition fees for 2026-27 are not detailed on the provided pages. Specific fee information should be sought directly from the university or the relevant course page. The provided 'Fees and Funding' information pertains to PhD scholarships and a general student funding calculator, not specific PGCE tuition rates.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements for the program. For PGCE, this typically includes a relevant degree and IELTS 6.5 (6.0 in each component).
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including degree transcripts, English language test results, and any other supporting evidence of academic background and suitability for teaching.
3. Submit ApplicationApply through the University of Sheffield's online application portal. For potential scholarship consideration, specific deadlines apply, such as January 7, 2026, for ESRC scholarships (though these are primarily for PhDs, it highlights the importance of early application and document finalization).
4. Receive OfferApplicants will be notified of the outcome of their application. Conditional offers may be made, subject to meeting specific requirements before the course start date.
5. Prepare for EntryIf an offer is accepted, prepare for the September 2026 intake. International students who do not meet the direct entry requirements may consider pathway programs offered by the University of Sheffield International College or English language courses at the ELTC.
Scholarships
ESRC White Rose Social Science Doctoral Training Partnership scholarshipsNot specified
Accreditation
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the PGCE programme?
+
You need a relevant Bachelor's degree, predominantly in the subject you wish to teach. For example, an English degree must be primarily in Language or Literature. You also need an IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in each component.
How long does the PGCE programme take to complete?
+
The programme is designed to be completed in 43 weeks, starting in September 2026.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Specific international tuition fees for 2026-27 are not detailed on the provided pages and should be sought directly from the university or the relevant course page.
What are the career prospects after completing this PGCE?
+
Graduates are prepared to become qualified teachers in secondary education (ages 11-19), equipped with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Roles include Secondary School Teacher or Subject Specialist Teacher.
How do I apply for the PGCE programme?
+
You should check the entry requirements, prepare necessary documents like degree transcripts and English language test results, and then submit your application through the University of Sheffield's online portal. Early registration of interest is recommended.
Does the programme offer any Master's credits?
+
Yes, upon successful completion, you will gain 60 Master's credits which can be applied towards an MA Applied Professional Studies in Education.