Delivery format
In person
Built in Birmingham. Forged for the future.
Find out why we are the most targeted UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2024) by meeting some of our successful alumni.
Course overview
Start your teaching journey with our specialist programme. Receive expert education and support to inspire young minds in the 11-18 age range, through close partnerships with schools.
Our PGCE Biology (QTS) programme is designed to challenge you to make informed and justified decisions about your teaching approach, laying the foundation for ongoing professional development. Upon successful completion of the course, you will also have the opportunity to return for part-time study and complete a Master’s in Teaching Studies with us.
Course Structure
The PGCE Biology (QTS) programme 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.
Semester 1: September - December (14 weeks)
- 4 weeks University-led teaching
- 8 weeks on school placement
- 2 weeks ITAP (intensive training and practice)
- 1 week half-term
Course highlights
We excel in teacher education by combining theoretical knowledge and practical experience in our PGCE Biology programme, leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). This course offers 80 credits towards further study, allowing graduates to pursue a Master's degree such as the MA in Teaching Studies. The integration of academic rigour and hands-on practice, along with the opportunity for advanced qualifications, makes us a leader in teacher education.
- Integrated Theoretical and Practical Training: Combines the learning of cutting-edge educational theory with hands-on classroom experience
- Unlock Your Teaching Career: Graduate with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), opening doors to exciting opportunities in secondary education
- 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: Comprehensive career services and support for graduates entering the teaching profession
- Gain 80 credits
towards a Master's degree
Course delivery
Our programme prepares you for your teaching career through diverse methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and extensive school-based experience.
- Assignments that link practice and research
- Opportunities within modules to practice teaching techniques
- Targeted feedback on core teaching skills
Module information
All students take 6 compulsory modules, each worth 10-20 credits.
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Teaching Experience 1 (Secondary) | 10 | Semester 1 |
| Teaching Experience 2 (Secondary) | 10 | Semester 2 |
| Intensive Teaching and Practice 1 and 2 (Secondary) | 10 | Semester 1 |
| Intensive Teaching and Practice 3 and 4 (Secondary) | 10 | Semester 2 |
| Secondary School Studies 1 | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Secondary School Studies 2 | 20 | Semester 2 |
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.
Entry requirements
A strong academic record at A level or equivalent in relevant subjects is required, along with a strong degree (usually a minimum of 2:2 and at least 50% of degree must have Biology) 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 and English (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)
- completed an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before taking up a place
- completed 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
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.
Fees and scholarships
- £9,535
The University will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year. If your offer is for 2025 year of entry, we expect that the tuition fee for your first year of study will be £9,535. If Parliament agrees an increase in tuition fees, the University will increase fees for each year of study normally in line with these changes and will communicate any change in the fees to affected students or existing applicants without delay.. If you are applying for 2026 year of entry, you will be advised of the annual tuition fee closer to the time.
Teacher Training funding options available
A range of financial support is available to help fund your teacher training, including tuition fee loans, maintenance loans, and tax-free bursaries or scholarships for eligible subjects. Additional grants and support are also available for those experiencing financial difficulties. International students may have limited options but could still qualify for specific grants.
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.
Application process
Apply online through DfE Apply. We recommend you apply early as possible as the course is often full by Spring.
Course Code: C1X1
The interview process
The interview process is designed to identify candidates who are motivated to teach. Candidates selected for interview will be invited to:
- meet course tutors
- find out more about the course
- have a one to one interview
There may be the opportunity to meet senior colleagues from partner schools during the interview day.
Career opportunities
Our Biology Secondary Teacher Training course is highly esteemed across Birmingham and the West Midlands.
We are proud of our strong track record of student employment following course completion, with many of our alumni progressing to roles such as classroom teachers, Heads of Departments, Senior Leaders, and SENDCos. Our comprehensive career services and support equip you with the skills and confidence needed to excel in the teaching profession and beyond.
- #1 Most Targeted UK University
by leading graduate employers (High Fliers Research 2024)
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.