PGCE iQTS (DL) at University of Sunderland

Programme overview

The PGCE iQTS (DL) is an internationally recognised degree that leads to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in England, allowing you to study flexibly via distance learning from anywhere in the world. It’s been designed to be delivered to primary ‘homeroom’ teachers across all subjects (which must include planning, delivery, and evaluation of all core subjects and a range of foundation subjects), and secondary subject specialist teachers. and delivered at master’s level, giving you a strong foundation for further.

Department: Education and Teacher Training | Duration: 36 weeks distance learning | Study mode: online | Intake: September 2026 | Location: Sunderland, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Primary route; Open All; Emerging Professional Practice in International Primary Education (30 credits)+; This module will give you the opportunity to begin to develop purposeful integration between subject knowledge, pedagogical, and theoretical knowledge content taught in both University sessions and in practical sessions in education settings. You'll also start to gain an understanding of the role, responsibilities, and requirements of the professional teacher. Professional Practice in International Primary Education (30 credits)+.

Career pathways

Delivered by expert academics, this course is ideal for teachers and education professionals working in international settings who are looking to advance their careers. It opens up opportunities for more senior roles in teaching, leadership, and educational management, and the skills you gain are also transferable to areas such as education policy and government.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

When completing your application, you'll need the consent of your school and a suitable mentor. The University will need to approve the school and designated mentor. Successful admission will be determined by your potential to teach assessed using both your application and, if successful at application stage, an interview process. To be accepted onto the course, you'll need: Education requirements; A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a UK or non-UK university. This doesn't have to be in a curriculum subject. You must check the individual teacher registration requirements for the country where you wish to teach. The University uses the UK National Information Centre (ENIC) to assess the level of your qualifications if from a non-UK university. To have achieved a standard equivalent to grade 4 in GCSE mathematics; To have achieved a standard equivalent to grade 4 in a GCSE science subject (biology, chemistry, or physics) if teaching children aged 5 to 11 (equivalent to an English primary school).

GBP 9,790 a year (2026/27). Distance learning; University fee table Source

Intake: September 2026

Duration: 36 weeks distance learning

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

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