Program Overview

Introduction to PGCE Secondary History with QTS

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Secondary History with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a one-year program designed to prepare students to teach history across the secondary school curriculum for the 11-16 age range.

Course Overview

The program explores inclusive ways to teach history, developing students' ability to teach different historical concepts such as causation, interpretation, change, and continuity. Key topics include using sources in the history classroom, the importance of reading and writing when learning history, and making the history curriculum relevant and inclusive.

Course Structure

• The program consists of lectures, seminars, and placements in mainstream secondary schools.
• Students will spend at least 120 days on two teaching placements across Greater Manchester.
• At university, students will mainly study with students in their subject specialism, learning how to plan and deliver lessons through interactive, hands-on seminars.

Features and Benefits

• Employability: Students will gain the knowledge, skills, and experience to teach history at Key Stage 3, GCSE, and potentially A/AS-level.
• Teaching Experience: Students will spend a minimum of 120 days on placement, gaining experience in mainstream secondary schools.
• Postgraduate Credits: Upon graduation, students will achieve 60 masters-level credits, which can be put towards further study and career development.
• Partnerships: The university has partnerships with over 500 schools, colleges, and educational organizations, providing students with a range of school experiences.
• Research-Led Teaching: Many staff members are active researchers in education, and their research influences the programs.

Entry Requirements

• Degree: A minimum of a 2:2 undergraduate honors degree awarded by a UK university, or an equivalent higher education qualification.
• GCSE: GCSE at grade C/4 or above in English language and mathematics.
• Other Requirements: Appropriate post-16 qualifications, an ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written English, excellent interpersonal skills, and an informed and realistic understanding of the complexities and challenges of teaching in a secondary school.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the 2026/27 academic year are still being finalized. Information on 2025/26 standard undergraduate fees for UK/Channel Islands and EU/Non-EU international students is available.

Careers Support and Prospects

• Employed or in Further Study: 93.7% of UK-domiciled, full-time, postgraduate taught graduates are employed or in further study 15 months after graduation.
• Explore Your Options and Build Sought-After Skills: Through the Careers Service, students will be supported and encouraged to get ready for what comes next, whether that's continuing their studies or pursuing their work ambitions.

How to Apply

To apply for this course, please use the Find Postgraduate Teacher Training Service. The final interview date for overseas applicants will be May 1, 2026, and applications must be submitted no later than April 6, 2026.