Program Overview

Introduction to the PGCE Secondary Psychology with QTS Program

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Secondary Psychology with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is a one-year program designed to prepare students to teach psychology in secondary schools and post-16 education. This program is offered by Manchester Metropolitan University and aims to develop students' knowledge, application, and evaluation of different psychological theories and methods, as well as the best techniques for delivery in a classroom setting.

Program Overview

The PGCE Secondary Psychology with QTS program is a full-time course that runs from September to June. The program includes a series of lectures, seminars, and placements in secondary schools, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of teaching and learning in a secondary school setting. Students will develop their subject knowledge and understanding of subject specialist teaching, as well as their ability to plan, deliver, and evaluate lessons.

Key Features of the Program

• Employability: The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to teach psychology at secondary school and post-16 levels.
• Teaching Experience: Students will spend at least 120 days on placement in two different secondary schools, 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: The program is taught by experts in the field, and many of the staff are active researchers in education, ensuring that the program is informed by the latest research and theories.

Course Structure

The program consists of several core units, including:

• Subject Pedagogy: This module develops students' ability to reconceptualize their knowledge and understanding of their subject and apply it to planning, preparation, and classroom teaching.
• Secondary Professional Studies: This module explores current and critical issues, educational theory, and research connected to practice in schools.
• Professional Development and Employability (Secondary Education): This module supports and challenges students to reflect upon and develop their professional practice and teacher identity.
• Placement A (Secondary PGCE): This practice credit module provides contexts in which students can put into practice their own learning, reflect on their actions, and evaluate their role in relation to pupils' learning.
• Placement B (Secondary PGCE): This practice credit module provides further contexts in which students can develop their teaching skills and evaluate their performance in supporting teaching and learning.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the program, students must:

• Have a minimum of a 2:2 undergraduate honors degree awarded by a UK university, or an equivalent higher education qualification.
• Have GCSE at grade C/4 or above in English language and mathematics.
• Demonstrate a good understanding of teaching and learning within a secondary school setting.
• Have 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. However, students can find information on 2025/26 standard undergraduate fees for UK/Channel Islands and EU/Non-EU international students.

Careers Support and Prospects

The program provides students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to teach psychology at secondary school and post-16 levels. Most graduates go on to work as psychology teachers in secondary schools. The program also provides 60 masters-level credits, which can be put towards further study and career development.

Conclusion

The PGCE Secondary Psychology with QTS program at Manchester Metropolitan University is a comprehensive and well-structured program that provides students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to teach psychology in secondary schools and post-16 education. With its strong focus on employability, teaching experience, and research-led teaching, this program is an excellent choice for those looking to pursue a career in teaching psychology.