- Become an outstanding primary school teacher with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
- Enjoy extensive periods of classroom experience supported by outstanding tutors and mentors.

The PGCE Primary is a Graduate Certificate degree offered by The University of Manchester at its main campus in Manchester, United Kingdom. The program is delivered on campus as a Full Time course in English and requires approximately 1 year to complete. Students study at the university's main campus while gaining the knowledge and practical experience expected for this area of study. The tuition fee is USD 33,209 / year, and the next intake is available from September 1, 2026.
About Graduate Certificate in PGCE Primary
PGCE Primary will train you to teach children aged 5 to 11. It provides training in all primary stage National Curriculum subjects, with a particular focus on Mathematics, English and Science.
Completion leads to a postgraduate qualification and recommendation for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
University-based sessions cover education theories, ideas and concepts, and will enhance your awareness of current educational issues.
You will spend a significant amount of time studying the core subjects outlined above, while also studying Religious Education, History, Geography, Art, Music, Design and Technology and PE.
Disciplines
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Graduate Certificate in PGCE Primary at The University of Manchester
Entry Requirements
- Bachelors degree (minimum 2:2 or international equivalent).
- Two A-levels or equivalent (minimum grade C).
- GCSEs in English Language, Mathematics and Science and other three GCSE subjects (minimum grade C).
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 5.5
- TOEFLMin 72
English Program Requirements
In addition to a grade C at GCSE in English Language, applicants whose first language is not English are required to meet the following language requirements:
- IELTS 6.5 overall, 6.5 in writing, no sub-section below 6.0, or
- TOEFL iBT overall score of 90 with a minimum score of 22 in writing and 20 in the other sub-sections, or
- Pearson PTE overall score of 62 with a minimum score of 62 in writing and 59 in the other sub-sections, or
- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) overall score of 176 or above, with 176 in writing and no sub-section below 169
Career Opportunities after Completing Graduate Certificate in PGCE Primary
Career opportunities
I realised a couple of years ago that the thing which was missing in terms of job satisfaction was the ability to make a direct impact on others, particularly children, to help improve their futures.
My school-based placements have been great its what the course is all about and makes it all real. Having visits from University tutors, and the odd day here and there during the placement, means you remain connected to the Uni and your course mates.
Tim Charlton / PGCE Primary Alumnus
You need QTS to teach in a state-maintained or special school in England and Wales. Whilst other routes to gain QTS exist, they do not all come with the postgraduate qualification of a PGCE.
A PGCE from The University of Manchester is a valued qualification regionally, nationally, and internationally.
When you study a PGCE with us, we help you prepare for a successful career in education. You will be given clear direction, advice and support when making applications for teaching posts and our employment rates are consistently high.
In addition to this, a PGCE qualification can count as 60 of the 180 credits required for a master's degree, and The University of Manchester offers a range of postgraduate Education courses should you wish to continue your professional development as you progress further in your career.
Visit our careers and employability page for more information.
The University has its own dedicated Careers Service that you would have full access to as a student and for two years after you graduate. At Manchester you will have access to a number of opportunities to help boost your employability .
Fee Information

United Kingdom, Manchester