Prospective Students

Degree Information:

Do you believe that your efforts and commitments can inspire a young person to achieve great things? As a teacher in a second-level school, it is the quality of the relationships that you form with your students that will define their experience of school and encourage, enlighten and challenge them to achieve the highest standards possible for themselves. Without doubt schools in Ireland are now defined by a diversity of races, faiths, cultures, social and economic backgrounds. If you think you have the courage to work in this way then you should consider becoming a teacher.

By contributing to the development of a young person's values and character you influence not just the quality of one person's life but the quality of the whole of society.

The Professional Diploma in Education addresses the need for a flexible evening teacher education qualification for those who want to work in second-level schools but who are not in a position to engage in a full-time day programme of study.

Aims and Objectives:

• To provide student teachers with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to adapt to the demands of their professional lives.
• To combine the varied experiences and opinions of the students to bring a synergy to the lectures, shared tutorials and group work, which are key features of the programme.

It is our aim to recruit students for this programme from a variety of backgrounds, including those working in second-level schools as well as those who have recently completed undergraduate study, those who are currently working in Further Education, industry and business, TEFL, Special Needs Education, Youthreach, VTOS and other professional settings.

Programme Structure:

The programme starts in September, with lectures held on Tuesday and Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm. This includes an induction to teaching practice which happens each year prior to students starting their placement. You will participate in lectures, shared seminars, workshops and study in groups to develop your abilities in two subject pedagogies. Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure that upon completion of the programme you meet the General and Special Requirements of the Teaching Council, in order to be able to register as a teacher of your chosen subject in a second-level school in Ireland.

In Year 1, you take five modules, attracting a total of 30 credits (ECTS). In Year 2, seven modules are offered across both semesters, also attracting 30 credits. Each module is continuously assessed, with terminal examination as appropriate. Continuous assessment is by projects, case studies, papers, presentations, reports and computer-based assignments, where relevant.

School Placement

This programme includes a supervised school placement during which you will practice classroom teaching and participate in the general life of the school. You must obtain a minimum of 100 hours of teaching in a classroom, as well as a further 200 hours of systematic observation and participation in school life.

View the subjects currently taught on this course (2012 - 2013)

Why DCU?

• DCU is the largest centre for education and training in Ireland.
• We take a modern and creative approach to teacher education.
• We link initial teacher education programmes to professional development.
• DCU graduates in teacher education are highly regarded.

International Applications

International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language.

Fees

The fees for 2013/2014 will be posted on the University website at www.dcu.ie/finance/fees/schedule.shtml as soon as they are available.

Career Prospects:

Career Prospects

While most of our graduates will work as teachers in voluntary secondary, vocational, community and comprehensive schools, others will pursue further studies in education and related fields, such as guidance, pastoral care, school leadership and management. Others again will work in, Further Education, Higher Education, government departments and other education and training settings.

As this course is fully recognised by the Teaching Council, graduates will receive appropriate salary allowances for permanent positions in second-level schools.

Entry Requirements:

Applicants will normally hold at least a primary degree that is recognised for teaching at least one subject from the second-level curriculum. In addition you must have all of the following:

• Two references (including current or most recent employer)
• Guaranteed placement of at least 200 hours with 12-18 years olds in a recognised school/college
• Be available to attend for interview prior to the start of the programme
• Relevant experience (desirable)
• Applicants MUST read the Programme Regulations for the PDE, complete and return four supplementary forms with your PAC number directly to Postgraduate Applications Centre, 1 Courthouse Square, Galway within 10 days of making your application online:

1. Consent Form
2. Reference Form
3. Subject Form
4. Placement Form
   

It is strongly recommended that you send all application materials to the PAC Application Centre by registered post as DCU cannot accept responsibilities for incomplete applications. Supporting documents may also be electronically uploaded onto your PAC application. All supporting documentation must be received by 28th February 2013.

Please note that canvassing of any kind will disqualify an applicant. Furthermore, we do not discuss any aspect of an application with third parties. All offers of a place on the PDE programmes will be made through the email address you provide with your online application. It is your responsibility to monitor your PAC account for a change in status. Those who are placed on waiting lists should be particularly mindful of this and all applicants who are offered a place on the programme should ensure that they confirm acceptance by the due date otherwise the place will be offered to the next applicant on the waiting list.

International Applications

International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to shoe outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language. For further information on international applications click here: http://www.dcu.ie/international/index.shtml

Dates for Submission of Applications 2013

For entry in September 2013 applications MUST be submitted online at www.pac.ie with course code DC905 from 15th October 2012 to 28th February 2013. Interviews will take place in March 2013.

Queries on completed applications

Queries on completed applications may be emailed to registry.pac@dcu.ie

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Fee information

Indicative Timetable
(Weeks 20-31)