University College Dublin

Overview

The Professional Education programme at University College Dublin (UCD) is designed to enhance your professional teaching practice through a comprehensive mix of theoretical knowledge, practical coursework, and school-based placements. This programme equips you with the essential knowledge and pedagogical skills required to facilitate high-quality learning, while also fostering a reflective approach to teaching as a professional practice.

What you'll study

This Master's level programme spans two years of full-time study and includes a combination of taught modules and school placements, bridging the gap between academic theories and real-world classroom practices. Core areas of study include:

• Pedagogical approaches to teaching and learning
• Subject-specific methodologies tailored to your chosen teaching subject
• Planning, teaching, assessment, and reflective practices
• Professional learning and development throughout your placements

Examples of subject methodology modules offered within the programme include:

• Pedagogical Approaches to Mathematics
• Modern Language Spanish Methodologies
• Modern Language German Methodologies
• Modern Language French Methodologies
• Business Studies Economics Methods
• Business Studies Accounting Methods

Assessment methods are primarily based on coursework and practical placement outcomes, utilizing criteria that emphasize active and diverse pedagogies alongside reflective professional practice.

Entry requirements

To be eligible for this programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A relevant Honours Bachelor Degree at NFQ Level 8 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 180 ECTS credits
• Required subject credits in relevant areas to be recorded on the Register of Teachers, typically ranging from 60 to 90 ECTS, depending on the subject
• At least 10 ECTS credits at third-year level or higher
• Compliance with the Teaching Council’s specific requirements regarding mandatory areas of study
• Demonstrated English language proficiency, with acceptable scores from tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, or the Oxford Test of English
• Standard application documents, including degree transcripts and proof of English proficiency, as required by UCD

Career prospects

Upon completion of the Professional Education programme, graduates are well-prepared to pursue a variety of teaching roles within the educational sector. The unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience gained throughout the course allows graduates to effectively support student learning and development in diverse classroom settings. Additionally, there may be opportunities for further professional development and specialization in various educational fields.

Work Permits

After completing your programme in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for post-study work permission, subject to meeting relevant immigration requirements at the time of application.

• Eligibility: Completion of an eligible course of study in Ireland and maintaining the appropriate immigration permission to remain in the country post-graduation.
• Duration: Post-study work permissions are granted for a limited period, governed by the rules in effect at the time of your application.
• Conditions: Timely application after graduation and submission of evidence of programme completion may be required.
• Important: Immigration regulations can change, so it's essential to verify the latest requirements with the Irish immigration authorities or your university’s international student office before making plans for your next steps.