Entry year
2023
2023
Entry requirements
Honours degree
Honours degree
Duration
36 weeks (Full Time)
36 weeks (Full Time)
Places available
approximately 30 (Full Time)
approximately 30 (Full Time)
The PGCE in Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) is a recognised teaching qualification aligned to the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland professional competences which affords graduates ‘Eligibility to Teach’ (referred to in some other jurisdictions as 'qualified teacher status', QTS). The course is aligned broadly with the Northern Ireland Curriculum, supporting graduates in teaching Science across the 11-18+ year age range. The programme aims to develop your competence and confidence in the teaching of Science and in the general professional role of the teacher.
Our PGCE will appeal to you if you wish to move into teaching and if you are a graduate in Science or about to graduate in Science. Applicants should indicate which of Biology, Chemistry or Physics they are interested in when applying.
If you wish to apply for two science subject areas, please submit one application for the Science programme but indicate using the supplementary application form which Science specialism is your preference eg. Biology with Science; Chemistry with Science; Physics with Science. You may nominate more than one on the same supplementary application form.
Extra places are reserved to prepare those who are interested in teaching their subject through the medium of Irish in Irish-medium schools. An additional certificate in Irish Medium Education (IME) is awarded in conjunction with St Mary's University College.
There is the option for science students to take a two week alternative placement with an environmental/outdoor learning education provider. This will take place during the last two weeks of the second placement (May time). Students will be invited to apply for this opportunity and must demonstrate satisfactory development in all core competencies before proceeding to this placement.
Further information including an Applicant Guide can be found on the School website at go.qub.ac.uk/pgce23
Education (Science) highlights
Over 83% of research submitted by colleagues based in the Education Unit of Assessment was judged to be ‘World Leading’ or ‘Internationally Excellent' by a peer review panel (REF2021).
Professional Accreditations
- We are a General Teaching Council (GTCNI) accredited provider of Initial Teacher Education programmes. On completion of the programme you will achieve Eligibility to Teach / Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Career Development
- PGCE graduates may transfer 30 credits into one of the School’s Educational Master’s programmes.
Student Experience
- The Education and Training Inspectorate has assessed the ‘Outcomes for learners’ on the course to be ‘Outstanding’. Students are involved in active, enquiry-based and research-informed learning throughout the course.
- Watch a recording of the PGCE Information Session for 2023/24 entry at this link:
https://youtu.be/LByYLMT86Fc
"The PGCE in Science is very highly regarded within Northern Ireland, the UK and beyond. We welcome graduates from a range of science degrees and prepare adaptable, innovative science teachers of the future. The course offers an excellent blend of theory and practice in teaching science using contemporary and research-led teaching approaches. Our students are nurtured on their journey to becoming a teacher and we work closely together to fully prepare students for a fulfilling career in education".
Dr Karen Kerr, Lecturer (PGCE Science)
NEXT
Course content
Course Structure
After enrolment, you will complete an Induction week followed by a one-week placement in a primary school in early September.
The next six week block of the course is devoted to university-based tuition (subject-specific taught sessions and directed independent study) before you commence your first eleven week period of professional placement based in a school.
At the beginning of February, you return to university-based tuition in preparation for your second professional period in a school (12 weeks). A final week of university-based tuition completes the course at the end of May.
Successful completion of the PGCE depends on achieving satisfactory standards in both practical teaching and in University based modules, which are assessed through course work.
The extended placements, which we arrange, are normally in two different schools . This ensures a varied experience of teaching in different schools and working with pupils from the whole ability range.
In the two post-primary schools you will work closely with members of each school’s staff. Your subject lecturer from Queen’s will also maintain close co-operative links with these teachers during your school placements.
There is the option for science students to take a two week alternative placement with an environmental/outdoor learning education provider. This will take place during the last two weeks of the second placement (May time). Students will be invited to apply for this opportunity and must demonstrate satisfactory development in all core competencies before proceeding to this placement.
| Course Details | The programme combines university-based tuition, consisting of taught sessions and directed independent study, with professional placements in schools and is organised around three interdependent strands: Professional School-based Experience - focuses on developing practical teaching competence particularly through working closely with experienced teachers during periods of school placement. Subject Studies - focuses on teaching and learning within your subject specialism (and cognate areas). Education and Professional Studies - focuses on common aspects of teaching and the professional role of the teacher, bringing together relevant theory, policy and practice. This includes issues such as: the Northern Ireland education system, curriculum theory and policy, theories of learning and assessment, social class and educational disadvantage, special educational needs and barriers to learning, pastoral care and child protection/safeguarding, student voice, mental health and wellbeing of students, positive behaviour management, diversity and inclusion, effective use of technologies and whole school approaches to literacy, numeracy the social and emotional health of young people. Students are also offered a choice of elective course designed to enhance the subjects and skills they can offer to schools. Extra places are reserved to prepare those who are interested in teaching their subject through the medium of Irish in Irish-medium schools. An additional certificate in Irish Medium Education (IME) is awarded in conjunction with St Mary's University College. |
|---|
“The PGCE course is extremely well coordinated and delivered in an engaging, stimulating way. Classes are significantly smaller than undergraduate lectures, allowing relationships between tutors and students to develop and flourish with a real sense of support and community among the cohort... I thoroughly enjoyed my time on school placement and building relationships with pupils, enabling them to develop and blossom within the classroom. I was delighted to be awarded the ‘Excellence in Teaching’ Award 2021.”
Tori Coulter, PGCE Science 2021
People teaching you
PGCE Course DirectorSSESW
Email: j.nelson@qub.ac.uk
Dr James Nelson has oversight of the PGCE.
SSESW
Dr Karen Kerr teaches on and co-ordinates the science studies module. Her research interests are in science education. In particular, the areas of outdoor learning, Education for Sustainable Development and professional development for teachers.
Teaching Times
| Typically Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm. School-based placements are dependent on the host school's timetable for the school day. |
Career Prospects
Introduction
This PGCE prepares students for teaching in secondary-level schools (age 11-18+). You will gain ‘Eligibility to Teach’ (referred to in some other jurisdictions as 'qualified teacher status', QTS).
Qualified teachers have found employment in secondary schools, progressing through either a subject specialist or pastoral route into middle and senior management. Others have gone on to successfully complete further postgraduate study.
Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits. Unique initiatives, such as Degree Plus and Researcher Plus bolster our commitment to employability, while innovative leadership and executive programmes help our students gain key leadership positions both nationally and internationally.
https://www.facebook.com/178769492624/videos/251478602647133
Learning and Teaching
Learning opportunities available with this course are outlined below:
Indicative Number of Modules per Semester
1.5 modules per Semester (30 CATS points)
Indicative Proportional Mix of Time in Classes, Tutorials/Seminars/Labs, and Private Study in a Teaching Semester
40% lectures, 20% lab, 20% tutorials, 20% private study.
Assessment
Assessments associated with this course are outlined below:
Coursework comprises subject studies assignments, practical teaching and core tasks arising from lectures, workshops and tutorials addressing key educational issues.
Facilities
The School is situated across a suite of three buildings in Belfast's Queen's Quarter. We provide student and staff common rooms, computer suites and designated study spaces.
Explore the teaching and social spaces in our School through our 360 Virtual Tour:
https://youtu.be/PJeiF24bjxE
The Graduate School
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJ_BwOtjXAE
Prizes and Awards
- Educational and Professional Studies Prize.
- Elizabeth M Fulton Prize for top performing student in Science.
- Excellence in Teaching Award – competition across all PGCE subject areas.
- Overall Best Performing PGCE Student.
Resources
You can watch a recording of our post-primary PGCE Information Session for 2023/24 entry on our YouTube channel at this link:
https://youtu.be/LByYLMT86Fc
Modules
The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2022/23). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.
PREV
Course content
NEXT
Entry Requirements
Entrance requirements
Graduate
Please note the closing date for 2023 entry to this programme is Tuesday 1st November 2022.
Applications received after the closing date will be regarded as LATE and will be considered only if vacancies exist when all applications received by the closing date have been processed. Normally we do not consider ‘late’ applications before June at the earliest.
All applicants must possess the following:
- An Honours degree (and/or higher degree) or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University, relevant to teaching Science at Key Stage 3 and at least one of Physics or Chemistry or Biology to A- level. Degrees in cognate areas may be considered if 50% or more of the modules studied are deemed currently relevant to teaching the chosen science for which you have applied (either Physics, Chemistry or Biology).
- At the time of application, GCSE Mathematics grade C/4, and GCSE English Language grade C/4 or equivalent qualification. (Please note Essential Skills Level 2 qualifications are not regarded as equivalent for entry to this professional course as the professional accrediting authority, the GTCNI, does not recognise them as equivalent.)
We reserve the right to enhance the shortlisting criteria if the course is over-subscribed.
Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed.
Please note, applicants who are successful in obtaining an offer following completion of the selection process must provide official confirmation that they have satisfied any conditions of their offer by 12 noon on Thursday 31st August 2023 as the course will commence on Monday 4th September 2023.
International Students
Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.
English Language Requirements
Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.5, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required. *Taken within the last 2 years.
International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.
For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.
If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.
- Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
- Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.
INTO - English Language Course(QSIS ELEMENT IS EMPTY)
PREV
Modules
NEXT
Fees and Funding
Career Prospects
Introduction
This PGCE prepares students for teaching in secondary-level schools (age 11-18+). You will gain ‘Eligibility to Teach’ (referred to in some other jurisdictions as 'qualified teacher status', QTS).
Qualified teachers have found employment in secondary schools, progressing through either a subject specialist or pastoral route into middle and senior management. Others have gone on to successfully complete further postgraduate study.
Queen's postgraduates reap exceptional benefits. Unique initiatives, such as Degree Plus and Researcher Plus bolster our commitment to employability, while innovative leadership and executive programmes help our students gain key leadership positions both nationally and internationally.
https://www.facebook.com/178769492624/videos/251478602647133
Additional Awards Gained
Students are required to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure Check with Access NI costing £33 and are responsible for funding this themselves. Students have two mandatory placements in a post-primary school in Northern Ireland and are responsible for funding any travel, accommodation and subsistence. These costs vary depending on the location of the placement provider. Students will be expected to dress professionally and may incur additional costs for clothing. Additional costs will be incurred for the creation of teaching materials whilst on placement, which may be partly absorbed by the placement school.
Prizes and Awards
Educational and Professional Studies Prize.
Elizabeth M Fulton Prize for top performing student in Science.
Excellence in Teaching Award – competition across all PGCE subject areas.
Overall Best Performing PGCE Student.
Graduate plus award for extra-curricular skills
In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Graduate Plus. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.
PREV
Entry requirements
NEXT
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
| Northern Ireland (NI) 1 | £4,710 |
| Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 | £4,710 |
| England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 | £9,250 |
| EU Other 3 | £18,800 |
| International | £18,800 |
1 EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.
2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.
3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.
All tuition fees quoted are for the academic year 2023-24, and relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
More information on postgraduate tuition fees.
Additional course costs
All Students
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.
Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.
Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.
If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.
Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.
There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
Education (Science) costs
"Students are required to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure Check with Access NI costing £33.
Students have two mandatory eleven week placement and are responsible for funding any travel, accommodation and subsistence. These costs vary depending on the location of the placement provider. Students will be expected to dress professionally and may incur additional costs for clothing. Additional costs will be incurred for the creation of teaching materials whilst on placement, which may be partly absorbed by the placement school.
How do I fund my study?
Applicants are eligible for Undergraduate related funding, rather than Postgraduate. Please see the following sources for more information:
International Scholarships
Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships/.
PREV
Entry requirements
NEXT
Apply
How to Apply
Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.
When to Apply
The deadline for applications is normally 30th June 2021. In the event that any programme receives a high volume of applications, the university reserves the right to close the application portal earlier than 30th June deadline. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Entry Portal (DAP) against the programme application page.
Terms and Conditions
The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study.
Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.
Download Postgraduate Prospectus
PREV
Fees and Funding