PGCE Early Years Teaching (DL)

The PGCE Early Years Teaching (DL) degree is ideal for those who already work, or want to work, with children aged 0-5. Designed for those looking to specialise or advance their career in early childhood education, it offers flexible online study from anywhere in the world. In just one year, you'll build the skills and knowledge needed to support young children and families in an international context. Taught by experienced academics, the course equips you with expertise in child development, the early years curriculum, and pedagogy, preparing you for roles in teaching, leadership, and educational management. Our previous graduates have also used their master’s level credits to gain entry to postgraduate degrees, both at the University and other institutions globally. Please note, this course doesn’t lead directly to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) in England.

We usually require an honours degree or equivalent.

You must be able to undertake two teaching experiences as part of this course. This can be a setting where you already work or another Early Years setting.

If you're not currently employed as a teacher and will be seeking a placement school, read our additional information about the course.

Along with your application form, you must upload the following documents:

Without these documents, we'll be unable to offer you a place on the course.

IELTS 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component) — standard University of Sunderland requirement (source: sunderland.ac.uk/how-to-apply/english-language-requirements)

International students: £19,000 per year

UK students: £9,250 per year

UK/Home: £9,250 per year

International: £19,000 per year

PGCE Early Years Teaching (DL) September 2026/27

No fixed deadline — apply at least 6 months before your start date via the University's direct application portal.

• Sunderland, United Kingdom