Postgraduate Certificate in Education International (Dubai) PGCE

The course helps you build a strong knowledge of emerging issues in education, along with the chance to pursue further academic study and professional development.

Course structure

Here is a short overview of what you can expect during this course.

Combining weekly face-to-face classes with blended and asynchronous activities, this course delves into curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment, while integrating sustainable practices, social justice, and digital pedagogies. With a focus on internationalisation, the programme culminates in an action research project, empowering you to apply your learning to real-world educational challenges and drive meaningful change.

• Work independently to develop your practice through a process of critical reflection.
• Collaborate with and draw on experiences from your peers as education practitioners across the world as well as academics who are specialists in their field of Learning and Teaching.
• Develop as a critically reflective practitioner in both your domestic context and internationally.
• Benefit from a flexible blended approach to learning through in-person and asynchronous workshops and seminars, access to digital resources supplemented by University Tutor input.

Already in education but want to gain your PGCE?

Enhance your educational practice part-time alongside work with a PGCEi from the University of Birmingham Dubai. The course empowers you to become a critically reflective education practitioner by allowing you to collaborate with global peers and expert academics, enhancing your teaching practice through diverse perspectives. Engage in a research-informed community where you’ll conduct meaningful research and enquiry, developing your expertise in learning theories, pedagogy, and curriculum design. This programme equips you with the skills to innovate and improve educational practices in a global context.

• Designed for working professionals, combining evening classes and monthly Saturday meetings for flexible learning.
• Focus on developing expertise through modules on curriculum design, pedagogy, assessment, and action research.
• Engage in practical assignments that allow you to apply theories directly to your teaching practice.
• Conduct small-scale action research, critically reflecting on findings to enhance future educational practice.

Assessment on the programme involves a variety of methods, including critical evaluations of curriculum design, reflective analysis of pedagogy and assessment practices, and the development of a small-scale action research project. These assessments are designed to integrate theory with practical application, allowing you to demonstrate your expertise in educational research, learning theories, and innovative teaching strategies.

2026/27 Session

The following must be taken:

To be considered by the University of Birmingham Dubai, you will need to meet our entry requirements. This is a professional learning programme which requires students to have prior and current experience of working within an educational context.

All applicants must have:

• A degree (equivalent to a UK Bachelors Degree of at least 2:2 or above) or a recognised equivalent qualification and this will be a condition of any offer where the degree has not already been awarded
• Personal Statement (minimum 500 - 700 words) on your motivation and commitment in pursuing this programme of study
• A position of employment within an educational setting in the UAE for the duration of the PGCEi programme
• Two references. Preferably one academic (previous university tutor for example) and one professional that confirms your current role in an educational setting, evidencing your motivation and commitment to undertake further study
• If English is not your first language you may need to demonstrate proficiency in English through the completion of an academic level IELTS or equivalent. You should achieve a score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6 in each of the four areas of reading, writing, listening and speaking

English language requirements

In order to undertake a programme of study here at the University, you will need to demonstrate that you have a good level of written and spoken English. You can demonstrate your level of English with IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or alternative qualifications.

Paying your tuition fees

We charge an annual tuition fee. The fees quoted are by full time or part time per year of study. For those studying courses over two or more years, the tuition fee will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Tuition fees can be paid in full or in three instalments per year of study.

Scholarships

Birmingham attracts the best and brightest students from across the globe. For students with the potential to thrive here, we have a number of scholarships available at our Dubai campus.

At Birmingham Dubai, our aim is to make sure that success in your studies leads you on to a fulfilling career. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network information, advice and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.

Careers Network

In a competitive global market, you need to be ready for work before you graduate. At the University of Birmingham Dubai, our careers services will help you plan and achieve your ambitions. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network Dubai information, advice, and guidance service offers support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.

Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus, with its iconic buildings overlooking stunning parkland and friendly community, will quickly make you feel at home in the UAE's second city. Expect plenty of exciting activities to get involved in outside of your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.

Accommodation

Coming to the University of Birmingham Dubai to study might be your first time living away from home. Our student accommodation partners allow you to enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming, and sociable surroundings.

Living in Dubai

Enrich your life with endless attractions, entertainment and lifestyle opportunities. In just over 50 years, Dubai has transformed itself from a tiny settlement to a glistening city and world-class destination. It’s no wonder our students fall in love with the city.

Campus life

Our state-of-the-art Dubai campus is where our diverse community comes together, providing a home for up to 3,000 students to learn, relax, and socialise.

Student support

Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to all of our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus, so that you can get the most out of your university experience.

Take a virtual tour

Explore our Dubai campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.