PGCE Education (Religious Education) at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

The PGCE in Religious Education 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 Religious Education across the 11-18+ age range and suits applicants whose degree had a major religious studies or theology component.

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

An honours or joint honours degree (2:2 or above) in theology or religious studies; or an honours degree (2:2 or above) in a cognate area where at least a third of the content is theology or religious studies; or a higher degree in theology or religious studies; or a higher degree with a demonstrable connection to theology or religious studies. 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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