PGCE Education (Modern Languages) at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

The PGCE Modern Languages is a professionally recognised teacher education programme that leads to Eligibility to Teach in Northern Ireland, comparable to Qualified Teacher Status elsewhere in the UK. It is aligned with the competences of the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland (GTCNI) and combines university-based learning with substantial school placements. It prepares graduates to teach Modern Languages across the 11-18+ age range.

Department: School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work | Duration: 36 weeks full-time | Intake: September 2027 (starts 6 September 2027) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

What you will study

The programme is organised around three strands: professional school-based experience through placements in partner schools; subject studies in teaching and learning for the subject area; and education and professional studies covering curriculum theory and policy, social class and educational disadvantage, wellbeing, pastoral care and safeguarding. Students may also choose from a range of elective areas. Additional places are available through an Irish-Medium Education pathway, with an additional Certificate in Irish-Medium Education gained in partnership with St Mary's University College.

Career pathways

Graduates are equipped with the professional knowledge, practical experience and recognised teaching qualification required for post-primary teaching careers in Northern Ireland and beyond. PGCE graduates may transfer 30 credits into one of the School's Education Master's programmes.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

At least a 2:2 honours degree (single or joint honours) or equivalent in French and/or Irish and/or Spanish; German alone is not considered but is welcomed in combination with French and/or Spanish. Modern Languages modules must make up at least 50% of the qualification. Native speakers of languages other than English or Irish need a qualification in a curricular language other than their mother tongue at CEFR level B2 to be invited to interview. GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 and GCSE English Language grade C/4 (or equivalent) at the time of application; Essential Skills Level 2 is not accepted as equivalent. Shortlisted applicants are interviewed. Closing date 1 November 2026 for 2027 entry (late applications considered only if vacancies remain). The course starts on 6 September 2027. International applicants need IELTS 6.0 with no component below 5.5 (taken within the last 2 years) or an equivalent qualification.

Domestic applicants: GBP 4,985 a year (2026/27). NI/ROI residency PGCE tuition; published 2026/27 rate Source

International applicants: GBP 7,667 a year (2026/27). International residency PGCE tuition; published 2026/27 rate Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 36 weeks full-time

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