Program Overview

Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (Physics)

Overview

The Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (Physics) is a one-year, full-time course designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become effective teachers of Physics in secondary schools. The course combines university-based learning with school placements, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the curriculum, pedagogy, and professional values required for a successful teaching career.

Mode of Study

• Full-time

Duration

• 1 year

Start Date

• August

UCAS Code

• F3X1

Placement

• Yes

Course Details

The course is divided into three trimesters, with 18 weeks spent in university and 18 weeks in secondary school placements. The course consists of four modules:

• Learning & Teaching 1
• Learning & Teaching 2
• Contexts of Learning
• Professional Enquiry
• School Experience

These modules are designed to develop students' skills as dynamic and effective teachers, with a focus on knowledge of the curriculum, school placements, and professional values.

Modules

• Contexts of Learning (TED11100)
  • This module introduces students to the theories, policy, legislation, and issues relevant to secondary education in Scotland.
  • Students will build a critical understanding of the purposes of education, theories of how learning takes place, and the complex influences that can impact on learning.
• Learning & Teaching 1 (TED11102)
  • This module explores the professional values, personal commitment, complex pedagogical approaches, and subject knowledge required in curricular specialisms.
  • Students will develop their skills in planning and delivering lessons, using research and evidence-informed teaching strategies.
• Learning & Teaching 2 (TED11103)
  • This module builds on Learning & Teaching 1, further developing students' understanding of their subject area within the secondary curriculum.
  • Students will strengthen their confidence with a range of pedagogical approaches and assessment strategies.
• Professional Enquiry (TED11101)
  • This module prepares students to undertake an action research project, focusing on an area of their own teaching practice.
  • Students will develop their skills in practitioner-based enquiry, using reflective practice to drive forward an aspect of their teaching.
• School Experience 1 (TED10101)
  • This placement module provides students with the opportunity to put into practice the professional knowledge and skills gained in Teaching and Learning 1.
  • Students will spend 35 days in a secondary school, planning, teaching, and reflecting on their practice.
• School Experience 2 (TED10102)
  • This module provides students with a further 55 days of school placement, developing their knowledge, skills, and values as set out in the General Teaching Council Scotland (GTCS) Standards for Provisional Registration.

Entry Requirements

• A degree from a UK Higher Education Institution, or degree of an equivalent standard from an institution outside the UK.
• The degree should be in the subject to be taught and contain at least two graduating courses (80 credits) in the relevant subject.
• A minimum of 40 credits should be from Year 2 of study.
• Ordinary Degrees are also acceptable.
• SQA Higher English at Grade C or equivalent.
• SQA National 5 Mathematics or SQA National 5 Applications of Mathematics at grade C or equivalent.

English Language

• If the first language is not English, students will normally need to undertake an approved English language test.
• The University's minimum English language requirements will apply.

International Students

• The University welcomes applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.
• Entry requirements by country are available on the University's website.

Admissions Policies

• The University is committed to admitting students who have the potential to succeed and benefit from its programmes of study.
• Admissions policies are available on the University's website.

Fees & Funding

• The course fees for 2024/25 are:
  • Scotland: £1,820
  • England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland: £9,250
  • Overseas and EU: £22,870
• Tuition fees are subject to an annual review and may increase from one year to the next.
• The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries.

Careers

• Secondary Physics and Science Teacher (Can be in Scotland, UK or most countries of the world.)