Postgraduate Certificate in Education (non QTS)
Program Overview
The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (non QTS) is a 100% online program designed to enhance your career in education. It consists of two mandatory modules and a choice of three optional modules, allowing you to explore your own educational interests. By focusing on independent and critical thinking, you will develop an analytical approach to teaching and learning while gaining valuable experience. This program is ideal for individuals currently working in education or aspiring to do so in the future.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (non QTS) is a 100% online postgraduate program designed to enhance your career in education. This program consists of two mandatory modules and a choice of three optional modules, allowing you to explore your own educational interests. By focusing on independent and critical thinking, you will develop an analytical approach to teaching and learning while gaining valuable experience.
Objectives:
- Equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in an educational setting.
- Provide a flexible and accessible learning experience through online delivery.
- Offer choice and personalization through selectable optional modules.
- Foster independent and critical thinking for effective teaching and learning.
- Prepare graduates for further Master's study (60 credits awarded).
Description:
This program is ideal for individuals currently working in education or aspiring to do so in the future. It caters to those seeking an alternative route to teaching and gaining qualified teacher status (QTS). The program is offered online, allowing flexibility for students to study around existing commitments.
Outline:
Program Content:
The program consists of two mandatory modules and a choice of three optional modules:
Mandatory Modules:
- Learning in the 21st Century (30 credits): This module focuses on current policy, innovations, and contemporary practices in education with a specific emphasis on student learning.
- Evidence-based practice (15 credits): This module delves into the latest research and evidence-based practices for excellence in teaching.
Optional Modules:
- Inclusive Practice (15 credits): This module explores supporting neuro-diverse learners and the best ways to cater to their individual needs.
- Action Research project (15 credits): This module allows you to focus on an area of your practice, applying evidence-based principles to develop your expertise.
- Curriculum Design (15 credits): This module explores the construction of a curriculum, its features, and the necessary elements for providing progression and challenge to learners.
Program Structure:
The program is offered online, with both synchronous and asynchronous learning components. Synchronous online sessions are scheduled on fixed days, allowing engagement with the learning community. Asynchronous learning involves independent study using pre-prepared materials at your convenience. The program is designed for part-time study over one year. The initial phase involves synchronous online teaching for two hours per week, followed by six hours of directed study using online course materials. As you progress, the teaching hours decrease to provide more time for assessment preparation.
Course Schedule:
The program schedule is typically available one month before registration. It outlines the specific days and times for synchronous online sessions and provides a framework for your independent study.
Individual Modules:
Each module within the program has its own dedicated learning materials and assessment criteria. The course description provides a detailed overview of each module, including its content, learning outcomes, and assessment methods.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
The program utilizes a combination of formative and summative assessments. Formative assessments are informal opportunities to test understanding and learning through practice assignments. Summative assessments are formally graded and contribute to the overall module grade. These can include essays, reports, and presentations, depending on the chosen optional module.
Assessment Criteria:
Each module has specific assessment criteria that outline the expected level of knowledge and understanding required for successful completion. These criteria are clearly communicated to students and serve as a guideline for achieving the desired learning outcomes.
Feedback:
Formative feedback is provided within 20 working days of assignment submission, allowing you to utilize the feedback to improve your summative assessments. You are encouraged to discuss this feedback with your personal academic tutors and module tutors for further guidance and support.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program utilizes a combination of synchronous and asynchronous online teaching methods. Synchronous online sessions allow for real-time interaction with tutors and fellow students, while asynchronous learning provides flexibility for independent study. The program also emphasizes independent learning, supported by extensive online resources, the virtual learning environment, and library services.
Faculty:
The program is taught by a team of experienced and qualified educators. All lecturers hold a Higher Education teaching qualification and Qualified Teacher Status. They possess expertise and knowledge closely aligned with the program's content. The majority hold Master's qualifications or higher, and some are Fellows of the Higher Education Academy. You can learn more about the teaching team on the "Meet the Experts" pages.
Careers:
Career Opportunities:
This program is designed to support your career progression within an educational setting. It equips you with the knowledge and skills to excel in various educational roles, including:
- Teacher
- Educational leader
- Curriculum developer
- Educational researcher
- SEN coordinator
- Learning support assistant
Outcomes:
Upon completion of the program, you will be well-equipped to pursue a successful career in education. The program's online format allows you to continue working while gaining valuable qualifications, making it an ideal option for career advancement. Many graduates also utilize this program as a stepping stone towards further Master's studies.
Other:
Accreditation:
It is important to note that this program is a non-QTS qualification. However, it can serve as a pathway towards gaining QTS in the future. Individuals wishing to pursue QTS accreditation will need to meet the required English and Maths proficiency levels.
Key Features:
- 100% online delivery for flexible study
- Enhancement of your education career
- Highly qualified academic team for support
- Choice of optional modules to explore your interests
- Exploration of pedagogy, practice, and wider educational issues
- Engagement with current research and contemporary topics
University Ofsted Rating:
The University of Worcester has been awarded "Outstanding" by Ofsted for its training of Primary and Secondary Teachers in 2023. This achievement demonstrates the university's commitment to providing high-quality teacher education.
Additional Information:
For further inquiries regarding entry requirements, please contact the Admissions Office.
Similar Courses:
The Institute of Education at the University of Worcester offers a variety of similar courses, including:
- Education Studies and English Language BA (Hons)
- Education Studies and English Literature BA (Hons)
- Education Studies and Psychology BA/BSc (Hons)
- Education Studies and Sociology BA (Hons)
