PGCE Higher Education at University of Sunderland

Programme overview

The PGCE Higher Education degree is designed for academic staff in higher education, focusing on contemporary methods of teaching and student learning. Throughout the course, you’ll apply theory to your own teaching practice, building confidence and developing effective, engaging learning experiences. Guest speakers from diverse academic backgrounds will share real-world insights to enhance your understanding.

Department: Education and Teacher Training | Duration: 12 months part-time | Study mode: part-time | Intake: October 2026 | Location: Sunderland, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Core module; Learning and Teaching: Applying Theory to Practice (30 credits)+; Explore academic practice and gain an overview of learning theories, practical classroom teaching and learning approaches, while also covering a range of pedagogical approaches. Identify both why you are taking an approach as well as having the ability to implement, adapt and evaluate contemporary approaches to health professions education. Route module; Designing Learning and Assessment in Higher Education (30 credits)+.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

You're expected to have a substantial teaching workload which should equate to more than 100 hours of direct student contact each year. You must undertake a full range of academic practice in line with the UK Professional Standards Framework (UKPSF) in order to complete the course. The majority of students undertaking the course will be academics on a teaching and research contract, although the course is open to research assistants and associates who also contribute to teaching, provided they're able to meet all the dimensions of the UKPSF. University staff will apply via the HR staff qualifications policy, agreeing workload remission and support with their line manager. We advise all potential applicants to have an informal phone call with the course leader before applying to ensure that the course learning outcomes can be achieved and that the route is suitable for you. Please email [email protected](opens in new tab) to arrange this.

GBP 2,833 a year (2026/27). Part-time; University fee table Source

Intake: October 2026

Duration: 12 months part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.sunderland.ac.uk/postgraduate/pgce-higher-education#apply

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