PGCE Biology with QTS at University of York

Programme overview

One-year full-time PGCE with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) training in biology at the University of York, preparing trainees to teach National Curriculum science specialising in biology at KS3 and KS4 (11-16) with a post-16 enhancement. Around two thirds of the time is spent on school placements. Successful trainees are recommended for QTS by the Department for Education and receive a Masters-level PGCE worth 60 credits.

Department: Department of Education | Duration: 1 year full-time | Intake: September 2027 | Study mode: full-time | Location: York, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Subject sessions cover key practical techniques such as microbiology and dissection, teaching ethics, evolution, controversial issues and reproduction. Two secondary placements, a primary placement and a one-week professional enrichment placement; assessed by a lesson observation, an evaluation of teaching and learning and an in-depth focus study.

Career pathways

Biology teacher, educational administrator, education consultant, learning mentor, youth worker, science writer.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Undergraduate degree: 2:2 or equivalent in Biology or a related subject such as Biomedical Sciences; combined honours degrees accepted where Biology (or a related subject) is at least 50% of the award. Applicants without a Biology or related degree may be considered with a postgraduate degree in Biology or grade B in A level Biology; if the degree is under 50% Biology, a Subject Knowledge Enhancement course may be required before starting. GCSE Mathematics and English grade 4 (C), in addition to any English language requirement. Apply through Apply for Teacher Training. UCAS Teacher Training codes: C1X1 (core), W074 (Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust), A372 (Queen Ethelburga's). International applicants: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with minimum 6.0 in each component; PTE Academic 60 with 52 Listening, 53 Reading, 65 Speaking, 59 Writing; TOEFL 4.5 with 5 in Listening and 4.5 in each other component; other accepted tests include Cambridge B2 First 176 (169 per component), Oxford ELLT 7 and Duolingo 120.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year (2027/28). Tuition for the first year of study, 1 year full-time; fees in later years are subject to confirmation Source

International applicants: GBP 27,800 a year (2027/28). Tuition for the first year of study, 1 year full-time; fees in later years are subject to confirmation Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 1 year full-time

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