Program Overview

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PGCE Education (DL)

Overview

The PGCE Education Distance Learning (DL) degree at the University of Sunderland is an internationally recognised teaching qualification. This International Initial Teacher Training course blends applied teaching theory and practice in three taught modules and one extended teaching practice module. It has been developed so that it can be delivered to primary and secondary teachers, and to any subject specialism. It is a 36-week full-time course, completed in one academic year which can be undertaken both in the UK and in international settings via distance learning.

Why us?

• The University of Sunderland is at the forefront of International Initial Teacher Training and having developed the PGCE Education over 20 years ago in one country, we now operate across the world
• Engage with leading teaching and learning principles in both theory and practice that parallels the on-campus PGCE provision
• Graduate from a UK university which has been training teachers for over 100 years

Course structure

The PGCE Education (DL) degree is split into two semesters and has four core modules. There are two theory and practice of teaching modules, and two master's modules, which include a case study module and an action research module.

We use a wide variety of teaching methods with tasks including required reading, directed activities and self-assessments.

There are online discussion forums where trainees are invited to debate current issues relevant to the module content and, if you live close to other students on the course, we encourage you to form a study group.

The teaching practice is work-based and conducted entirely in a school that you have secured a placement at, or are currently working at. This is supported by a mentor and university staff.

We assess both the theoretical and practical elements of the course. Assessment is through written assignments, a profile of evidence of teaching standards and observed teaching.

Course modules

Emerging Professional Practice in Education (30 credits)

This module will give you the opportunity to begin to develop purposeful integration between subject knowledge, pedagogical, and theoretical knowledge content taught in both University sessions and in practical sessions in education settings. You'll also start to gain an understanding of the role, responsibilities, and requirements of the professional teacher.

Professional Practice in Education (30 credits)

Building on the Emerging Professional Practice module, you'll further develop and consolidate your understanding of the role, responsibilities, and requirements of the professional teacher, allowing you to put this into practice.

Development of Learning: A Case Study (30 credits)

In this module, you'll develop and understanding of the importance of the support mechanisms available to teachers in schools. You'll gain a critical understanding of a key educational theme applicable to your context and identify an appropriate approach and context on which to base a case study. You'll analyse the role played in individuals' learning by the teacher and teaching assistant within the context of the educational system, policies, and legislation. The module will finish with a piece of applied research appropriate to the situation identified for the case.

Negotiated Individual Study in Education (30 credits)

This module will give you the opportunity to structure and undertake a piece of independent academic study related to your professional development, encouraging you to engage in intellectual challenge and dialogue. You'll develop both general and specific knowledge and skills, relevant to your chosen project. You'll also identify and develop key skills to enhance your ability to transfer learning to further study and the workplace.

Entry requirements

Our typical offer is:

• Qualification: a bachelor's degree
• If you already hold a postgraduate qualification, please see our Applying for additional postgraduate degrees Help and Advice article.
• If you don't meet our standard entry requirements, you can take one of the foundation pathways at our partners ONCAMPUS Sunderland.
• We require applicants to hold an honours degree or equivalent.
• For those without a first degree studied in the medium of English, Academic IELTS is required. (A minimum Academic IELTS band score of 6.5, with 6.5 in writing, and no less than 6 in Reading and Speaking and Listening).

Fees and finance

• 2025/26 fees: The annual fee is £8,103.
• A £250 deposit must be paid prior to the start of the course. This deposit is refundable up until the point of enrolment.

Career ready

This distance learning degree in Education is ideal for teachers and other people working within international education institutions who want to quickly progress their careers. It will qualify you for more senior positions in teaching and educational management in international schools.

The knowledge and skills you develop on the PGCE Education course will also transfer to many other sectors, particularly education policy and government.

Please note that this course does not award Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), which you would normally need to teach in a state-maintained school in England.