Postgraduate Certificate in Education International PGCEi
About This Programme
The Postgraduate Certificate in Education International (PGCEi) at the University of Birmingham Dubai is a 60-credit, part-time, master's-level programme for people already working in education in the UAE who want to develop their practice. Over one year it examines curriculum, pedagogy and assessment through a global lens, weaving in sustainable practice, social justice and digital pedagogies, and it culminates in a small-scale action research project that tackles a real educational challenge. Semester 1 covers the foundations of education, curriculum design and social justice. Semester 2 turns to pedagogy, learning theories and assessment, and to educational research methods, particularly action research, so that students work as teacher-researchers. Teaching combines face-to-face evening classes and monthly Saturday sessions with blended and asynchronous activities, alongside peers who work in education around the world. Graduates can continue to an MA or explore accreditation routes such as Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Course Highlights
- A 60-credit, part-time programme exploring curriculum, pedagogy and assessment through a global lens, with sustainable practice, social justice and digital pedagogies built in.
- A small-scale action research project that applies the course to real-world educational challenges.
- Learning alongside education practitioners from around the world and academics who specialise in learning and teaching, developing as a critically reflective practitioner at home and internationally.
- A flexible, blended format for working professionals: face-to-face evening classes, monthly Saturday sessions, and asynchronous workshops and digital resources with tutor input.
- Skills aligned with UK and UAE standards; Birmingham is 68th in the QS World University Rankings 2027, as stated on the course page.
What You'll Study
Designed for working professionals, the course combines evening classes and monthly Saturday sessions; the course highlights describe weekly face-to-face classes with blended and asynchronous activities, workshops and seminars, digital resources and tutor input. Modules build expertise in curriculum design, pedagogy, assessment and action research, with practical assignments that apply theory directly to the student's own teaching, and a small-scale action research project with critical reflection on its findings. Assessment includes critical evaluations of curriculum design, reflective analysis of pedagogy and assessment practice, and the action research project, combining theory with practical application.
Semester 1
The foundations of education, curriculum design and social justice: a critical understanding of curriculum development across diverse educational settings and flexible approaches to global educational needs, examining learning criteria and contextual factors and proposing curriculum changes to improve outcomes.
- Education, Curriculum Design, Planning and Social Justice20 credits
Semester 2
Pedagogy, learning theories and assessment practice, with critical evaluation and refinement of teaching approaches; and educational research methods, particularly action research, applied through a small-scale research project. The course totals 60 credits over one year part-time (2026/27 session), all compulsory.
- Pedagogy, Learning and Assessment20 credits
- Educational research (action research)20 credits
Entry Requirements
Applications need a personal statement of 500 to 700 words on the applicant's motivation and commitment, and two references, preferably one academic (such as a former university tutor) and one professional confirming the applicant's current role in an educational setting. Applicants must meet both the University's general entry requirements and the course's own criteria; each application is reviewed by the course's Admissions Tutor.
Careers
The PGCEi suits educators who want to deepen their theoretical understanding and improve their practice while staying in their current roles, with a grounding in established and emerging educational issues and a strong link between research and practice. Graduates are prepared for further academic study, such as an MA, or to explore accreditation routes such as QTS. The course page cites Birmingham as one of the top UK universities targeted by leading graduate employers (High Fliers Research Report 2026), and the Careers Network Dubai offers information, advice and guidance.
Accreditation & Professional Recognition
Accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and listed as Active on the Commission for Academic Accreditation register as the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (International).
Programme Details
Award
Postgraduate Certificate in Education International (PGCEi)
Start Date
September 2026 (applications closed; September 2027 details to follow)
Typical Offer
A degree equivalent to a UK Bachelor's at 2:2 or above, plus employment in an educational setting in the UAE for the whole programme
Duration
1 year part-time
Qualification
Certificate
Subject Area
Education
Campus
Dubai
Study Pattern
Part time
Delivery Format
In person
Tuition Fee
AED 41,136/yr
AED 41,136 a year, part-time, for September 2026 entry. The fee covers tuition, examinations and graduation and can be paid in full or in three instalments; it does not include visa or living costs. Applications for September 2026 entry to this programme are closed, and details for September 2027 entry will be published later. Applications are made online through the University of Birmingham Dubai Admissions portal, with no application fee; postgraduate applicants upload transcripts for study completed so far, their degree certificate if available, and a CV. Decisions are usually made within 10 working days of all documents arriving. A non-returnable AED 5,000 deposit, deducted from tuition, is paid on accepting an offer. Scholarships of up to 30% are assessed from the application itself, with no separate form. University visa sponsorship is for full-time students.