PGCE vs PGCEi
PGCE and PGCEi. They are both post-graduate teaching qualifications, delivered by universities and with very similar names. Are you wondering which one is right for you, and your teaching career?
We have broken down the info to give you the pros and cons of both, so you can make a decision that suits you.
What is a PGCE? (Postgraduate Certificate in Education)
A PGCE is one of the most popular academic qualifications for teaching.
Most on campus PGCEs give you Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and with QTS you’ll be able to teach as a qualified teacher in England.
There are also fully remote PGCE courses (online). These are non-QTS courses which are perfect for teachers interested in working outside of their home country. The courses are flexible and will help you to gain knowledge on theories about learning and teaching. The remote courses are generally more affordable and you can study while working, as it is delivered completely online.
PGCE Costs
The costs of a PGCE will be different depending on where you’re from, the type of course and the university. The standard tuition fee for UK students would be around £9,250. You can use student loans and bursaries to help you financially.
Remote PGCEs (online) are more affordable and can be completed on a part-time basis. Their prices can vary from £2,500 - £7,455 depending on the university. This can also lead on to completing your QTS/ teaching license at a later stage.
How long it takes and the different types of PGCEs
The course takes a year to complete or two years if you do it part time. There are three main types of PGCEs:
PGCE Primary
PGCE Secondary
PGCE Further/Adult Education
The duration of a remote PGCE depends. Normally it’s between 11 months when studying full time. Part time it can take up to four years.
Pros and cons of a PGCE
Pros
Many high-tier international schools require teachers to have a PGCE. A PGCE will help you to qualify for positions at these high-tier schools.
This is an internationally recognised certificate from a UK university.
The PGCE can be completed fully online and by candidates who are living abroad. It will
It’s beneficial if you want to obtain QTS later on.
The PGCE will improve your knowledge on key teaching and learning theories, which helps you to become a well-rounded teacher.
Gaining a PGCE will result in an increased salary, as you will be a perfect candidate for top-tier schools.
Cons
The fees to obtain a PGCE are expensive.
You will have to be fully invested in completing the qualification - it is hard work.
What is a PGCEi? A Post Graduate Certificate in Education (International)
A PGCEi qualification will improve your understanding of education in an international context. It’s focused on improving professional practice. It is specifically aimed at teachers or practitioners working in countries other than the UK. You will not obtain QTS when acquiring a PGCEi.
PGCEi Costs
The costs of a PGCEi ranges from £3500 to £6500 depending on your location and the university provider.
How long it takes and the different types of PGCEi
The PGCEi is typically a distance learning course, which takes 11 months to a year to complete.
The PGCEi is usually relevant to all curricula and phases. The age and subject that you teach does not matter when completing a PGCEi.
Pros and cons
Pros
The PGCEi is more affordable compared to a PGCE.
This is an internationally recognised certificate from a UK university.
The course can be completed online, therefore you can study from anywhere in the world.
The course will assist teachers in obtaining positions in international schools.
Cons
Many high-tier international schools require candidates to have a PGCE and will not accept teachers with a PGCEi.
Even though it is more affordable than a PGCE, it is still a large finacial investment.
Long term it is not as worthwhile as a PGCE.
You may not be able to obtain a teaching license with a PGCEi.
The Key Difference between PGCE and PGCEi
In our experience, only lower-tier international schools accept a PGCEi. In an international context, a PGCE is also more beneficial. A PGCE will help you to get that perfect teaching position at a top-tier international school (which usually comes with an increase in salary)! By doing a PGCE you will learn about the key teaching and learning theories which can be applied practically in your classroom. You will also qualify to obtain QTS when you meet further requirements at a later stage.
Want to complete an online PGCE(non QTS)?
We are partnered with the University of Cumbria - get your PGCE hassle free!
Next intake - January 2025.
www.cumbria.ac.uk/study/courses/postgraduate/study/courses/postgraduate/pgce-non-qts-online/
Mention Totally Teach as your agent when you apply to receive a cash-back of £45! (only payable after you’ve paid your fees in full)
