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Why choose this courseAs a psychology educator, you'll introduce students to the scientific study of the mind and behavior, demonstrating how to examine actions and social interactions through evidence-based theories.The PGDE (Secondary) Psychology program offers an enriching and intellectually stimulating journey, allowing you to contribute to this evolving discipline during a pivotal phase of its growth. You'll expand your existing psychological knowledge while mastering techniques to make the subject engaging for young learners. Additionally, you'll apply psychological principles to understand and implement effective learning strategies in classroom settings.Our expert tutors bring extensive experience and will offer tailored guidance throughout your studies. They'll also help you network with psychology educators across Scotland and globally.Our graduates are highly sought after, benefiting from both their comprehensive training and the University of Strathclyde's esteemed reputation in teacher education.Globally recognized qualificationThe PGDE is an internationally respected teaching certification accredited by:the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS)the Scottish GovernmentProspective international educators should verify eligibility with their local education authorities.Program highlightsparticipate in campus-based learning and complete 18 weeks of school placementsqualify to teach in various countries worldwideoption to earn 80 Masters-level creditsfinancial support available (for ScottishHome students only)School placementsDuring the course, you'll complete 18 weeks of practical training in Scottish schools, with ongoing evaluation to demonstrate your proficiency in meeting the Standards for Provisional Registration.Full participation is required during normal school hours, including staff development days unless otherwise instructed by your placement school.Placements provide invaluable hands-on experience to refine your teaching approach, acquire new methodologies, and build meaningful connections with students.You'll maintain a professional portfolio documenting your development, which serves as evidence of meeting registration standards and lays the foundation for continuous career growth.Career prospectsAn education degree opens diverse opportunities for working with children and adolescents.Most PGDE alumni pursue teaching careers in secondary schools nationwide. Discover more about post-PGDE pathways.Scottish secondary educators utilize the Curriculum for Excellence framework to nurture students' skills, knowledge, and intellectual curiosity while fostering comprehensive development.
Degree requirements: An upper second-class single or joint honours degree in psychology, or international equivalent. Degree must include: 80 SCQF credits in psychology, to include psychology research methods. We may be able to accept a lower second-class honours degree for entry to the Gaelic Medium version of the PGDE Psychology programme. Due to the limited availability of school placement in Psychology, it is anticipated that we will only be able to offer places on Psychology to students eligible to study it as a dual-qualifying subject. This means having at least 80 University credits in another secondary subject, as outlined by the GTCS. School placements will focus on one or both of the subjects, increasing the flexibility of what we can offer, and giving students more options at the end of the PGDE course, and better prospective employability. Please include in your personal statement that you are applying for a dual qualifying PGDE Psychology and indicate your other subject. Maths & English: Higher (SCQF Level 6) English Grade C or above, National 5 (SCQF Level 5) Mathematics Grade C or above, Maths and English qualifications can be in progress at the time of application. Experience & References: evidence that you have experience of working with children in a secondary school or related setting, an understanding of modern secondary education, an ability to relate to people, Relevant experience should be noted in your personal statement. For postgraduate studies, the University of Strathclyde requires a minimum overall score of IELTS 6.5 (no individual test score below 5.5) or equivalent. TOEFL (ibt): 80 overall, with the following minimum scores in each component: Listening: 17 Reading: 18 Speaking: 20 Writing: 18.