Course Summary
The course offers graduates wishing to progress into post-primary education the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills to become an effective teacher of history. You are introduced to the most recent research-informed developments in history curriculum and pedagogy, relevant to teaching the Northern Ireland Curriculum.
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Entry Requirements
a. GCSE passes at Grade C or above in English and Mathematics (or equivalent qualification). (Please note Essential Skills Level 2 qualifications are not regarded as equivalent for entry to this professional course).
b. At least a 2:2 Honours (or above) degree directly related to History. Alternatively, applicants may possess a Master's degree that is linked to the specialist PGCE subject on offer. In the case of a combined Honours degree, at least 50% of the degree shall be in the specialist subject.
c. Two acceptable references must be supplied - one academic, one character.
d. Medical certificate of satisfactory health
e. Applicants will be scrutinised by Access NI procedures to ensure that they do not have a criminal record and must also satisfy the University and the Department of Education regulations that nothing would legally prohibit them from working with children.
f. Evidence of good quality presentation and basic literacy skills are required throughout the application process. The application form will be examined for spelling, punctuation and grammar skills. Applicants will also be expected to complete a set piece of formal writing as part of the selection process.
g. Applicants should comply with the DE Circular requirements as outlined in Initial Teacher Education: Approval of Programmes document.
H. Demonstrate evidence of knowledge and interest in working with young people of post-primary age.
Additional criteria
In order to facilitate a manageable shortlist, the following criteria will be applied: At least 2 weeks experience in working with young people of post-primary age gained within the past two years. This must be evidenced in the application form and candidates meeting these criteria will be interviewed to ascertain their suitability for the course. An offer of a place will be conditional upon satisfying the Selection Committee on all of the above criteria.
English Language Requirements
English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.
Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
Application Details
The closing date for applications is 8 January 2025. Applications received after the closing date may be considered at the discretion of the selection panel.
Start Date: September 2025
Fees
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Career Progression
The PGCE course prepares you to teach History in a Post Primary school or college. Successful completion of this course qualifies you to seek registration with the General Teaching Council of Northern Ireland.
On the post-primary strand of the programme the focus is on preparing you to teach 11 to 18 year olds in the formal education sector. However, there may also be opportunities to work in education related fields, including as an education officer in a non -government organisation or a museum.
Duration
PGCE is a full time course. It is 36 weeks in length. Attendance is compulsory.