PGCE (History) at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A full-time, 12-month PGCE in History for secondary school teaching, run through the Oxford Internship Scheme in partnership with more than 37 secondary comprehensive schools in Oxfordshire and neighbouring counties. The course builds on long-standing partnerships with local schools and includes visits to local museums and a local case study exploring equity and diversity issues. Successful interns are recommended for Qualified Teacher Status.

Faculty: Social Sciences Division | Department: Department of Education | Duration: 12 months full-time | Intake: September (orientation in September); applications via GOV.UK | Study mode: full-time | Location: Oxford, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Two interrelated components, curriculum subject work and the professional development programme (PDP), plus two written assignments based on school investigation and research literature. The 12-month course starts with three days in a primary school in September, then a first week at the Department of Education. The rest of the autumn term combines two days a week at the University with three days in a state secondary school, the spring term is mainly school experience, and the summer term opens with an immersive SEND-focused experience before a placement in a second state secondary school.

Career pathways

Most interns secure a teaching post in a state-maintained school. As of August 2025, 92% of the 2024-25 cohort had accepted teaching positions or were seeking teaching roles; of those who specified a destination, 72% were working as teachers in the state sector and 32% in a partnership school.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants should be committed to teaching History in state comprehensive schools, show commitment to working with children through voluntary work or other experience, hold a good degree (2:2 or above) in History or a History-related subject such as Law or Sociology, and provide an excellent academic or work reference. Typically 50% of the degree should relate directly to the PGCE subject; applicants unsure about their degree are advised to audit their subject knowledge against the National Curriculum. English language level: higher level required. Applicants may be asked to submit a degree transcript when they apply.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year (2027/28). Home fee, full-time Source

International applicants: GBP 43,150 a year (2027/28). Overseas fee, full-time Source

Intake: September (orientation in September); applications via GOV.UK

Duration: 12 months full-time

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