Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

Start Your Teaching Career with Swansea University!

If you have a passion for learning and the drive to shape education for the next generation, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) could be your next step.

As part of the Swansea University Schools Partnership, we offer accredited teacher training programmes in Primary Education and Secondary Education. Our vision, informed by collaboration between University and school practitioners, is to develop research-informed, reflective practitioners, ensuring that our future teacher workforce has the skills, knowledge and experience to make a difference to young learners in Wales, the UK and beyond.

Our PGCE Programmes

PGCE - Secondary

Our PGCE secondary programme provides training in a range of specialist secondary school subjects, building the skills and experience to confidently work within the teaching curriculum in Wales and beyond. With 11 subjects across science, history, modern languages, English, and Design and Technology, you can turn your passion into a career that makes a difference.

Application deadlines for 2026/27 entry:

UK (all pathways): 9AM, 24 August 2026
International (all pathways): 6PM, 5 June 2026

View our PGCE Secondary Programmes

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PGCE - Primary

Our PGCE Primary programme will allow you to develop teaching skills across the primary age phase and develop your understanding of the new curriculum in Wales. You will work with experienced, enthusiastic University tutors and mentors in our Partnership schools across South Wales to develop and reflect upon your own teaching practice.

Application deadlines for 2026/27 entry:

UK and International - Closed
Welsh / Cymraeg - 24 August, 2026 (9am)

View our PGCE Primary Programme

Our Partner Schools

Training is delivered through the Swansea University Schools’ Partnership, comprising a wide network of partnership schools, ensuring you benefit from rich, hands‑on experience guided by experienced mentors.

Learn more about our Schools' Partnership

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PGCE Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a PGCE?

The SUSP PGCE is a one year full-time programme. Throughout the academic year, you will spend 120 days on school placements and 60 days in University-based provision.

Does the PGCE qualify me to teach?

After successful completion of the programme, you will be recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) to the Education Workforce Council (EWC). This will enable you to teach as a New Qualified Teacher (NQT). QTS allows you to teach in England and Wales, as well as a number of other countries. We advise that you check with the respective country’s teaching association to confirm transferability and recognition.

How much does a PGCE cost?

PGCE tuition fees for UK students for academic year 2026/27 are £9,535. International and EU students are £20,250.

How do I apply for a PGCE?

To apply, select your chosen pathway - Secondary or Primary - and click ‘apply’ on the top right-hand corner of the course page. You will be directed to the UCAS website where you will be able to begin the application process.

Can I get a student loan for a PGCE?

Please visit our PGCE Funding Page for more information on student loans, additional funding for eligible students as well as Welsh Government Teacher Training Incentives.

For a full list of FAQs please visit our PGCE Frequently Asked Questions webpage.

Supporting Your PGCE Journey

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PGCE Open Days

Join us at one of our forthcoming PGCE Secondary and Primary Open Days/Evenings to discover more about studying your PGCE at Swansea University.

Book onto a PGCE Open Day

PGCE Funding

Students studying a full-time or part-time Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) may be eligible for funding to help with the costs of the course (Student Finance eligibility criteria apply).

Explore your Funding options