PGDE Secondary Education: Biology with Science at University of Strathclyde

Programme overview

Initial teacher education programme qualifying graduates to teach biology in Scottish secondary schools, with additional training to teach general science to lower-school pupils. It builds existing biology knowledge into classroom teaching practice and leads to a PGDE regulated by the GTCS.

Faculty: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences | Duration: Full-time: 36 weeks including 18 weeks of placement; part-time: two years including 18 weeks of full-time placement | Intake: August | Study mode: full-time | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Subject classes cover the practicalities of teaching biology, planning practical work and managing behaviour, plus 20 hours on teaching general science with physics and chemistry student teachers, including a Glasgow Science Centre visit. The course is modular across three strands (Education Studies: Professional Values; Professional Learning Through Enquiry; Professional Skills covering curriculum and pedagogy and professional practice), combining on-campus classes with 18 weeks of school placement in Scotland.

Career pathways

The PGDE is a GTCS-regulated teaching qualification recognised worldwide. Eligible students from Scotland, other parts of the UK and the Republic of Ireland who study at a Scottish university can join the Teacher Induction Scheme, which guarantees a one-year training post with a local authority.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

An ordinary degree or international equivalent. Degree must include at least 80 SCQF credits in biology, covering one subject from list A (animal biology, biochemistry, human biology, biomolecular science) and one from list B (botany, plant biology). Medical-related degrees are not appropriate. Higher (SCQF Level 6) English grade C or above and National 5 (SCQF Level 5) Mathematics grade C or above (or acceptable alternatives); these can be in progress at the time of application. Applicants need evidence of experience of working with children in a secondary school or related setting, an understanding of modern secondary education and an ability to relate to people, noted in the personal statement. References: one for UCAS applications and two for applications made direct to the University; academic if a current student or graduate within the last 5 years, otherwise professional. English language (international applicants): IELTS 6.5 overall with no individual score below 5.5, or equivalent; tests valid for two years. IELTS does not replace the Higher English requirement. Offer holders must join or update their PVG Scheme membership, and applicants who have lived outside the UK for three consecutive months or more in the five years before placement must provide a Certificate of Good Conduct.

International applicants: GBP 22,200 a year (2027/28). Domestic fee listed as to be confirmed; funded places available to Scottish/Home students via SAAS Source

Intake: August

Duration: Full-time: 36 weeks including 18 weeks of placement; part-time: two years including 18 weeks of full

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