Postgraduate Certificate Secondary Education (QTS) - Mathematics PGCE

On our Postgraduate Certificate Secondary Education (QTS) Mathematics programme you will be challenged to develop informed and justified decisions about how you approach your teaching in order to enable you to continue to develop over the course of your career. On successful completion of your PGCE, you may return to study with us on a part-time basis to complete your Masters in Teaching Studies. 

Course structure

The PGCE (QTS) will include the study of subject-specific teaching techniques as well as wider professional topics. You will also work in schools for a total of 28 weeks.

• Integrated Theoretical and Practical Training: Combines the learning of cutting-edge educational theory in world class sporting facilities with hands-on classroom experience.
• Unlock Your Teaching Career: Graduate with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), opening doors to exciting opportunities in secondary education.
• Accelerate Your Academic Journey: Gain 80 credits towards a master's degree, propelling your educational aspirations forward.
• Learn from the Best: Be inspired by renowned educators and researchers at the forefront of their fields.
• Diverse Placement Opportunities: Explore a wide range of placements through our extensive network of partner schools.
• Career Support: Recieve comprehensive career services and support for graduates entering the teaching profession.

• Assignments which link practice and research.
• Opportunities within modules to practice teaching techniques.
• Targeted feedback on core teaching skills.

The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

2025/26 Session

The following must be taken:

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English Presessional Programmes

Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.

A strong academic record at A level or equivalent in relevant subjects, along with a strong degree (usually a minimum of 2:2) relevant to the subject taught. In all cases we will be looking at the relevance of your degree, other qualifications and experiences related to your proposed teaching subject in assessing academic suitability.

You must also have GCSE Mathematics, English and Science (Grade 4/C or above) or equivalent qualifications which will be a condition of any offer, if not already achieved. Equivalency tests will be accepted but only from equivalency testing.

You must also:

• Complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before taking up a place.
• Complete relevant checks to ensure you have the health and physical capacity to teach.
• Agree to abide by the University of Birmingham Code of Professional Conduct and Fitness to Practise.

Students who have not studied in English must pass a recognised English test. For more information on what proof you will need, visit our International Postgraduate requirements page

Postgraduate Masters Loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.

We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.