PGCE iQTS (DL)

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. The course blends applied teaching theory and practice in two taught modules and two teaching practice and theory modules of 120 days, including a second school placement. Two of the modules are research-focused and delivered at master’s level, giving you a strong foundation for further postgraduate study. Successful completion provides a direct pathway to Stage 2 of our MA International Education or MA Education course – both offered via distance learning.

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:

You'll also need to submit a strong personal statement as part of your application which will be crucial in how your application is assessed.

When completing your personal statement, please consider the following areas:

Essentially, this is a portrait of you as a teacher, a self-reflective statement of your beliefs about the teaching and learning process, and, where appropriate, how you enact or plan to enact these beliefs in the professional school environment.

Your response in the personal statement will be individual to you and reflect and embrace the diversity of your background, the richness of your experiences, and what you'll bring to the teaching profession.

As part of your online application, you'll need to agree to the online trainee agreement. You'll be asked to provide email addresses for two referees, your host school(s) head teacher, and mentor. They'll be contacted for further information and to provide their consent. Please note, all forms must be completed and submitted before being offered 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

2026/27

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

• Sunderland, United Kingdom