Professional Graduate Certificate in Education

The Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (ProfGCE) is a Level 6 award in England and Wales for undergraduate degree holders who wish to become teachers. ^{[1] [2] [3]}

It is very similar to the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and enables candidates to gain their Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), but does not carry credits towards a master's degree of which the PGCE provides 60. ^[4]

It sits on the Honours Level of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ), a level lower than the Postgraduate Certificate in Education. The Professional Graduate Certificate in Education level 6 is also a stand-alone qualification for those wishing to become a teacher in the post-compulsory sector. ^[5] It can be used as an advanced pathway for those completing a Diploma in Education and Training level 5. Completion of the Diploma / Professional Graduate Certificate (typically two years part-time) allows you to apply for Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status.

References

1. "6","7"%5d&D=0 "Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (Professional Diploma in Teaching - Further Education and Skills)". UK Government website, National Careers section. Retrieved 22 July 2025.
2. "Provision recognised as higher education for Office for Students funding purposes - Updated 6 May 2025". UK Government. Retrieved 22 July 2025.
3. "Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (PCET)". Wrexham University. Retrieved 22 July 2025.
4. "Programme Specification for Postgraduate/Professional Graduate Certificate in Education: Primary (PGCE Primary) (2023 entry)" (PDF). University of Worcester. Retrieved 22 July 2025.
5. "PGDE and further education courses". UK Government: Teacher training courses. Retrieved 22 July 2025.