Program Overview
The PgCert Professional Academic Practice is a postgraduate certificate designed to enhance teaching skills and methodologies in UK higher education. It supports reflective practice, inclusivity, and the use of emerging technologies. Assessment is portfolio-based, and teaching is delivered online with webinars and various tools. The course prepares professionals for career advancement and further studies in higher education research and analysis.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This PgCert Professional Academic Practice is a postgraduate certificate in higher education designed to enhance teaching skills, techniques, and methodologies in UK higher education settings. It is suitable for both new and established teaching professionals working in universities, on courses validated by a university, or for practice educators in the NHS.
Objectives:
- Support the development of reflective practitioners whose teaching is inclusive and underpinned by scholarship.
- Provide a safe learning environment for critiquing current issues and agendas within higher education.
- Enhance academic practice and support the ongoing professional development plan, including the use of emerging technologies.
Assessment:
Assessment is conducted through a portfolio submitted through the UWL virtual learning environment, Blackboard. The portfolio may include:
- A reflective account of the educator's own practice, aligned with the United Kingdom Professional Standards Framework 2023 of the HEA.
Teaching:
- The course is delivered online with a combination of independent online guided study, activities (individual and group), and production of work.
- Each week, a 90-minute webinar is held on Friday from 12.45–14.15.
- Teaching methods include online lectures, presentations, group work, discussions, video, simulation, and social media.
- Tools used include Blackboard, Collaborate, AI, and Poll Everywhere.
- Students will have access to a personal tutor and a mentor at work who provide support and guidance.
Careers:
- The PgCert can enhance teaching practice in a current role or prepare for career advancement or promotion.
- Participants may be UWL staff or staff from other institutions.
- Participants have access to life-long advice and support from the UWL Careers Team.
- Completion of the PgCert may lead to further studies, such as a doctorate, to specialize and develop research and analysis skills.
Other:
- The course emphasizes developing reflective practice, inclusive teaching, and the application of emerging technologies.
- The course includes a focus on quality assurance, enhancement, and policy within higher education.
- Participants are expected to manage their time effectively and engage in collaborative approaches to enhance their practice.
- The course is delivered at Level 7 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ).
- Equality, Diversity, and Inclusivity (EDI), Digital Technology and AI, and Evidence-Based Practice are integrated throughout the course.
- Students are required to engage in at least 60 hours of teaching or supporting student learning during the academic year.
|:---|:---|:---| | UK Students | £3,000 | GBP | | International Students | £4,000 | GBP |
University of West London
Overview:
University of West London (UWL) is a modern university located in West London, known for its focus on career-oriented education. It boasts strong rankings in student experience and teaching quality, placing it among the top 30% of universities in the UK.
Services Offered:
UWL offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Programs:
Undergraduate, postgraduate, degree apprenticeships, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses, Foundation Year, and research degrees.Student Life:
Accommodation, sports and recreation, faith support, student stories, and a Students' Union.Campus and Sites:
Multiple campuses in Berkshire, Brentford, and Ealing, with a shuttle bus service connecting them.International Support:
Services for international students, including visa and immigration assistance, English language requirements, and scholarships.Business Services:
Careers events, FlightPad, Fresh Minds for Business, Knowledge Exchange, recruitment opportunities, degree apprenticeships, venue hire, professional development courses, and the Westmont Enterprise Hub.Research:
The Graduate School, Research Centres and Groups, Early Career Researcher Network, research impact, and research degrees.Support for Students:
New student support, returning student support, general student support, semester and term dates, policies and regulations, online learning tools, feedback mechanisms, studying off campus, library services, results and graduation, Student Portal, and student handbook.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UWL provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. They can participate in a variety of student events, join societies and clubs, and access a range of sports facilities. The university also offers partnerships with local accommodation providers, ensuring safe and affordable housing options for students.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Career Focus:
UWL emphasizes career-oriented education, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers.High Rankings:
The university consistently ranks highly in student experience and teaching quality, reflecting its commitment to providing a positive and effective learning environment.Diverse Programs:
UWL offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, catering to diverse interests and career aspirations.Vibrant Campus Life:
Students can enjoy a dynamic campus experience with numerous events, societies, clubs, and sports facilities.Strong Support System:
UWL provides comprehensive support services for students, including academic guidance, career counseling, and personal well-being resources.Academic Programs:
UWL offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate:
Degrees in STEM, healthcare, business, hospitality, social sciences, law, policing, and the arts.Postgraduate:
Master's degrees and research-led teaching in various fields.Research Degrees:
PhD and Professional Doctorate opportunities.Other:
UWL is committed to sustainability and has achieved the EcoCampus Platinum award for its environmental management system. The university also holds a Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Silver award and an Athena Swan Bronze award, demonstrating its commitment to excellence in teaching and gender equality.
Entry Requirements:
UK Students:
- An honors degree from a UK university or the Republic of Ireland.
- An honors degree from an approved institution of higher education outside the UK and Republic of Ireland.
- A recognized equivalent professional qualification and/or experience.
- Evidence of at least 60 hours of teaching and/or supporting student learning throughout the academic year.
International Students:
- An honors degree from a UK university or the Republic of Ireland.
- An honors degree from an approved institution of higher education outside the UK and Republic of Ireland.
- A recognized equivalent professional qualification and/or experience.
- Evidence of at least 60 hours of teaching and/or supporting student learning throughout the academic year.
