iPGCE

Ranked 1st in the UK for Teaching Quality (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025)

Why study this course

Distance learning and 100% online – study from anywhere in the world.

Gain a recognised qualification from a UK university with a strong reputation in teacher education.

Learn from a team of education specialists with expertise in a wide range of disciplines.

Stimulating interactive activities to help you learn at a time that suits you.

Course summary

The International Postgraduate Certificate in Education (iPGCE) is an online distance-learning programme tailored to those looking to gain a recognised qualification from a UK university with a long and distinguished history in education and teacher development. Studying for the iPGCE is fully online and designed for students (from anywhere in the world) who are already undertaking teaching work in international settings, or who wish to do so in the future. Upon successful completion of the iPGCE, students will also have developed the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue further studies, such as an education-related MA.

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Key facts

Award	iPGCE
Duration	1 Year
Mode of study	Part-time
Start date	September 2025
Award	Bishop Grosseteste University
Institution code	B38

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About this course

The 100% online iPGCE is predominately aimed at in-service practitioners seeking professional development that would help further their career by complementing other teaching qualifications and advancing their understanding of educational issues pertinent to their own context. During the course, students will gain valuable insight to inform their own professional development and bring together theory and practice. Whilst the programme itself is not a form of teaching licence, nor does it lead to International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS)/Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), it is a fantastic way for practitioners to enhance their professional practice and career prospect in a collaborative environment.

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What you will study

Students on this course currently study some or all of the following modules:

Course modules

Compulsory modules

This module explores key elements of effective teaching and learning which are relevant to education in different contexts. You will consider contemporary challenges, such as those relating to planning and assessment, and how policy and curriculum can impact these. The module will also explore innovative pedagogical approaches that can benefit a range of settings, linking theory and practice.

Optional modules

This module will introduce you to educational research, with the aim to help you develop research-informed practice. It will guide you to systematically reflect on your own professional practice, drawing critical insight and engaging with international research to inform your professional development. You will explore your own pedagogical approach through a critical lens and consider how your impact can be maximised through effective teaching, reflective practice and active engagement in research and professional development activities.

This module explores a range of educational technologies that are capable of transforming the future of education. You will consider the associated opportunities and challenges these technologies can bring and how they can be incorporated in practice. By examining relevant literature, practice and research from across the world, you will apply your understanding, drawing up a plan to show how your chosen technology can be utilised within your own setting.

Entry requirements

Students must have an undergraduate degree (typically 2:2 minimum or equivalent). Any applicants who do not meet this requirement should be referred to the Programme Leader as relevant professional experience may be considered. Due to the distance learning nature of the course, all students must also have regular and reliable internet access.

Whilst prior teaching experience is not essential, by the time students commence the iPGCE, they must be working or volunteering in a role involving education, teaching or training. More specifically, this would mean a minimum of 10 hours per week (or equivalent) for the duration of the course. To meet this requirement, students will need to provide confirmation from their employer or volunteer setting that the required minimum hours can be achieved, and that all relevant clearance is in place as appropriate to the country concerned (UK students will need to provide their DBS number). In order to enrol, all applicants must therefore submit a completed version of the workplace agreement document provided by the Admissions team.

English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 with a minimum of 6 in each component.

Please include references and qualification documents with your application.

If you have any questions about the entry requirements for this course, please contact our Enquiries team for advice on +44(0) 1522 583658 or email enquiries@bishopg.ac.uk

Further information

Click here for important information about this course including additional costs, resources and key policies.

In accordance with University conditions, students are entitled to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning, RP(C)L, based on relevant credit at another HE institution or credit Awarded for Experiential Learning, (RP(E)L).

How you will be taught

The course has been specifically designed with distance-learning in mind. This delivery mode offers students significant flexibility, something that is important to those working full-time or in different time zones. When undertaking the iPGCE, you will have access to a plethora of multimedia learning materials, covering a wide range of topics. Given the flexible nature of the assessment tasks, you can specialise in a particular area that you want to focus on whilst still able to enrich your learning by exploring all the topics on offer. Alongside a range of independent asynchronous tasks, multiple interactive activities and formative assessment opportunities have also been incorporated, meaning you will be able to work within a thriving learning community and receive regular tutor support.

Academic staff

What Our Students Say

Discover what life is like at Bishop Grosseteste University from our students.

Support

Studying at BGU is a student-centred experience. Staff and students work together in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. You will feel confident approaching us for help and advice.

Throughout the iPGCE, you will be supported by your own personal tutor and will have full access to the Library's catalogue. All students will also have access to a range of professional services, such as Student Advice, Digital Learning, and Learning Development.

Fees & Funding

A lot of student finance information is available from numerous sources, but it is sometimes confusing and contradictory. That’s why at BGU we try to give you all the information and support we can to help to throughout the process. Our Student Advice team are experts in helping you sort out the funding arrangements for your studies, offering a range of services to guide you through all aspects of student finance step by step.

Click here to find information about fees, loans and support which will help to make the whole process a little easier to understand.

For all applicants, there are full instructions here to make it as easy as possible for you to fill in your online application, plus help text where appropriate.

I have truly enjoyed the course and the iPGCE team have been fantastic! I have found it very useful in more ways than one and it has enhanced my own teaching, as well as my students' learning.

Lisa, iPGCE student