If you are passionate about teaching and want a career in education, a bachelor’s degree may not be enough. The job market is incredibly competitive, so teachers who are looking to climb the career ladder should look into postgraduate courses that will give them a deeper knowledge of education theory, as well as the right tools and techniques to help students grow and succeed. Advanced programs will give you a better insight into classroom dynamics and individual learning.
To stand out from competitors and give you the edge, here are some of the best postgraduate courses that will boost your teaching career.
PGCE (University of Birmingham)
Costing £9,250 for UK and EU students, the postgraduate certificate in education at the University of Birmingham offers primary, secondary, and early years teacher training, primarily focusing on teaching, planning, and developing classroom skills. Students who study on this course can go on to study for a master’s in teaching studies once they have finished their PGCE.
MA Education (University of Birmingham)
Primarily created for teachers who are interested in education across a wide range of contexts, a Master’s in Education at the University of Birmingham is perfect for those looking to boost their teaching prospects. This course draws upon principle research areas including inclusion and special needs, education for social justice, and education leadership. The MA education program attracts students from a wide mix of backgrounds.
PGCE (University of Manchester)
The University of Manchester offers both primary and secondary PGCE courses. If you are interested in the PGCE secondary in particular, the course duration is one year and will give you the tools and skills needed to teach students in the 11-19-year age group. There are a wide range of PGCE secondary courses to pick from, including geography, business education, chemistry, and biology.
PGCiE (University of Bath)
If you are a teacher who is looking to enhance their skills and knowledge, studying for a PGCiE (Postgraduate Certificate in International Education) will give you the chance to explore issues relating to education. The course duration lasts up to 2 years and requires you to complete 3 units, which include curriculum studies, educational enquiry, and education in an international context. To be accepted onto this course, you will need to have a bachelor’s honours degree in place, or an international equivalent.
PGCE (Brunel University London)
Brunel University London has a variety of Ofsted ‘outstanding’ ranked PGCE programs to pick from, including primary education, secondary education in English, and secondary education in physical education. You can visit useful resources like Uni Compare where you can find key information about Brunel University to help make your mind up.
PGCE (Loughborough University)
Loughborough University provides PGCE courses that train individuals to teach the 11-18 age group. All students who embark on this PGCE course will also experience teaching the 11-16 curriculum, alongside post-16. The course duration runs for 36 weeks, giving you hands-on teaching experience in several secondary schools. Throughout the course, you will learn how to teach and connect with young people, helping to develop excellent communication and active listening skills.
PGDE (University of Sheffield)
Studying for a PGDE (Postgraduate Diploma in Education) at the University of Sheffield will teach you everything there is to know about learning, planning, teaching and policies. This PGDE features master’s credits which can be applied towards studying for a master’s degree. Covering subjects like English, History, Geography, and Mathematics, the PGDE will teach you key characteristics needed to succeed in a teaching role.
PGCE (University of Exeter)
Whether you pick a primary PGCE or a secondary PGCE, the University of Exeter are leaders in Initial Teacher Education. With Ofsted ranking the establishment as outstanding in all areas, the University of Exeter ranks as 3rd amongst other university providers. What’s more, the university has strong links with more than 250 schools across the south west of England.
MA Education (Manchester Metropolitan University)
A master’s degree in education at Manchester Metropolitan University will help deepen your knowledge and understanding and give you the chance to specialise in a particular subject or discipline area. During your course, you will learn a range of core units such as critical concepts, shaping the future, and specialist supported enquiry.
PGCE (University of Nottingham)
Students who decide to learn at the University of Nottingham can pick between a primary PGCE and secondary level education. No matter what field suits you, students will be given extended placements in a number of schools, helping you to develop new skills in a variety of educational environments.
There are various avenues that you can go down to obtain qualified teacher status in the United Kingdom. Studying a PGCE or other post-grad course at any of the establishments listed above will teach you invaluable skills and techniques that can help boost your teaching career.