List of 12 Institutions that offer PGCE (Contact and Distance Learning)

A Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is an essential qualification for individuals who aspire to become professional teachers in South Africa. This course typically takes one to two years to complete, depending on whether you pursue it full-time or part-time.

A PGCE equips graduates with the necessary teaching skills and subject-specific knowledge required to effectively manage a classroom and deliver quality education.

Requirements for a PGCE in South Africa

Pursuing a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in South Africa requires meeting specific entry requirements that vary slightly between institutions. Below are the general requirements you will need to fulfill to be eligible for a PGCE program:

1. Undergraduate Degree:
   • You must have a relevant undergraduate degree. This degree should ideally include subjects that you intend to teach.
   • For example, if you plan to teach Mathematics, your degree should include significant coursework in Mathematics.
2. Subject Specialization:
   • You need to have studied the subjects you wish to teach up to a certain level during your undergraduate degree.
   • Typically, for secondary education, you should have completed these subjects at least up to the second-year level.
3. Academic Record:
   • A satisfactory academic record is required. Most institutions require a minimum average of 60% in your undergraduate degree.
   • Some institutions may have higher or lower requirements, so it’s important to check the specific requirements of the institution you are applying to.
4. Language Proficiency:
   • Proficiency in the language of instruction (usually English) is essential.
   • Some institutions might require proof of proficiency, such as passing an English language test if your undergraduate studies were not conducted in English.
5. Professional Dispositions:
   • Some institutions may require evidence of your suitability for teaching, which could include letters of recommendation, a personal statement, or a portfolio showcasing relevant experience and skills.
   • Interviews or additional assessments may also be part of the selection process.
6. Clearance Certificates:
   • A police clearance certificate may be required to ensure that you have no criminal record, particularly offenses that would prevent you from working with children.

Three Phases of Specialty

PGCE programs in South Africa offer three main phases of specialization:

1. PGCE Primary: This specialization prepares teachers to educate young children in primary school settings.
2. PGCE Secondary: This focuses on equipping teachers with the skills to teach high school learners.
3. PGCE Further/Adult Education: This specialization is aimed at those who wish to teach in higher education institutions or adult education classes.

12 Institutions That Offer PGCE in South Africa

Below is a comprehensive list of institutions that offer PGCE in South Africa:

1. University of South Africa (UNISA)

UNISA offers a range of PGCE programs suitable for distance learning, making it ideal for working professionals. One of the prominent programs offered by UNISA is the Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching.

• Qualification stream: Languages
• Qualification code: 90148 – LAN
• NQF level: 7
• Total credits: 132
• SAQA ID: 115549
• APS/AS: 42

Rules:

• Teachers who are already professionally qualified to teach may not offer this qualification.
• It is the responsibility of the student to consult with the relevant Education Department districts or Provincial Education Departments on how to upgrade to additional REQV levels.
• Outstanding admission requirements may NOT be offered for non-degree purposes (NDP).
• Students who do not meet all the admission requirements for this qualification should consider applying for a BEd degree (if not already professionally qualified).
• UNISA reserves the right to cancel PGCE modules registered in excess of this number.
• Students completing the PGCE over more than one year MUST register for the Teaching Methodology in the same year as the Teaching Practice.
• The maximum number of years to complete the PGCE qualification is THREE years.
• Some pre-requisites and/or co-requisites outlined in this qualification may not apply as they do not form part of the curriculum.
• This qualification consists of 11 modules and 132 credits. Note that SPE1507 has been replaced by NSO1507. Students who have passed SPE1507 must NOT register for NSO1507.

This qualification will be presented using both online and distance learning modes.

Who Can Register?:

• Applicants (new applicants and UNISA students who applied for admission to a new qualification) may only register if they have received and accepted an offer of placement from UNISA.
• UNISA reserves the right to cancel your registration if it is found that you were incorrectly admitted to a qualification.
• Re-registering students may register for the 2024 academic year once the registration period opens.
• If you wish to start a new qualification, please apply online for the alternative qualification during the prescribed application period.

How to Choose Your Modules: Each UNISA qualification is structured so that you need to pass a certain number of NQF level credits within a specific amount of time to graduate.

• Co-requisite: If Module A is a co-requisite for Module B, you must register for both Modules A and B simultaneously. You may NOT cancel your registration for Module A unless Module B is also canceled.
• Pre-requisite: If Module A is a pre-requisite for Module B, you must pass Module A before registering for Module B.
• You may not register for more than the allowed maximum number of credits/modules per academic year and/or semester: 60 credits per semester or 120 credits per academic year.
• The maximum number of credits does not include supplementary and/or aegrotat examinations from a previous semester. Modules taken for non-degree/non-diploma purposes also count towards the maximum number of credits allowed.
• You must consider your available time when choosing your modules, as this will impact your academic performance. You need approximately:
  • 6 to 8 hours per week for semester modules.
  • 4 to 6 hours per week for year modules.

2. University of Zululand (UNIZULU)

The University of Zululand (UNIZULU) offers PGCE courses focusing on both primary and secondary education phases. Here are the detailed admission requirements and other essential information about the PGCE program at UNIZULU:

Admission Requirements for PGCE:

1. Academic Qualifications:
   • A student must hold an appropriate Bachelor’s degree or Diploma.
   • The degree or diploma should include sufficient disciplinary learning in an appropriate academic field to enable the development of teaching specialisation phases or subjects as specified for each phase.
   • A student must have passed at least two teaching subjects. The basic qualification should include 48 credits (with at least 24 credits at NQF Level 7) for an FET subject specialisation.
   • Admission to the PGCE (Senior Phase & FET) requires university studies at Level 6 and some Level 7 studies in appropriate disciplines, allowing the prospective teacher to specialise in at least two subjects, one for the Senior Phase (SP) and one for the Further Education and Training (FET) phase.
2. Articulation with Other Qualifications and Programs:
   • After completing the Postgraduate Certificate in Further Education and Training Teaching, graduates have various articulation options:
     • The PGCE can be used for entry into a cognate Postgraduate Diploma in Education, specialising further in a similar subject, phase, or practice, or developing a new role.
     • An Advanced Certificate (Teaching) allows for the development of new teaching specialisations.
     • A Bachelor’s degree graduate who has completed a PGCE as an initial professional teaching qualification may proceed to a BEd Honours degree.
     • Graduates with a PGCE (Further Education and Training Teaching) may pursue a management and leadership career by registering for an Advanced Diploma in School Leadership and Management.
     • Note: A qualification will not be awarded for early exit from the Postgraduate Certificate in Further Education and Training Teaching program.
3. Mode of Delivery:
   • The program is delivered on a full-time basis with face-to-face contact.
   • It includes some work-integrated learning, conducted on campus.
4. Application Form

By fulfilling these requirements and successfully completing the PGCE program at UNIZULU, students can gain the necessary qualifications to pursue a career in teaching at various educational levels in South Africa.

3. University of Cape Town (UCT)

The University of Cape Town (UCT) offers a highly regarded PGCE program known for its rigorous academic standards and strong emphasis on research and practical training. Here is an overview of the PGCE program at UCT:

Program Overview:

• The PGCE is a one-year qualification designed to train graduates who wish to become school teachers.
• It is the only qualification that provides professional registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE) for graduates with degrees other than a BEd.
• Admission is based on subjects studied during the undergraduate degree, following guidelines from the Department of Higher Education and Training.
• Teacher training aligns with appropriate prior degree courses in the subjects to be taught.

General Information:

• The PGCE is a full-time program running from January to November each year. It is not available part-time, by distance, or correspondence study.
• Conversational Xhosa is a compulsory course during the PGCE program; an introductory isiXhosa course is strongly recommended as part of your undergraduate degree.
• The PGCE grants the status of a qualified teacher in South Africa and enables registration with SACE. The qualification is recognized in many other countries, especially Commonwealth members. However, additional criteria may be required for teaching in other countries.
• Fees are charged per registered course as per the Fees Handbook. Additional levies apply for international and non-SADC students. International students should contact the International Academic Programmes Office (IAPO) when applying.
• The School of Education (SoE) identifies school teaching subjects as methods courses/subjects within the PGCE program.
• The SoE is a department within the Faculty of Humanities at UCT.
• Places are limited to 200, with preference given to students with two undergraduate teaching subjects.

Admission Requirements:

• Senior Phase and Further Education (HG020): Refer to specific requirements. A minimum of five students is needed for a course to run in a subject.
• Performance Arts Students:
  • Music applicants should select HG026EDN28.
  • Dramatic Arts, Dance, and Fine Art applicants should select HG027EDN29.
• Applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. A minimum average result in undergraduate courses is required for entry into specific teaching methods courses:
  • 55%: Physical Sciences SP & FET (EDN3244W), Economics SP & FET (EDN3227W), Accounting SP & FET (EDN3222W), Xhosa SP & FET (EDN3247W), Afrikaans SP & FET (EDN3223W)
  • 57%: Mathematics SP & FET (3240W), Mathematics SP and Mathematics Literacy (EDN3248W)
  • 60%: Geography SP & FET (EDN3232W), Life Sciences FET (EDN3238W), Natural Sciences SP (EDN3243W), Life Skills (EDN3239W)
  • 65%: History SP & FET (EDN3235W), English SP & FET (EDN3229W)
• Applications are done online. Ensure complete academic records are uploaded to avoid delays or forfeiture of your application.
  • Third-year students must provide a complete unofficial transcript indicating previous and current subjects and credits per course.
  • Graduands need an official graduation certificate and complete transcript showing subjects and credits per course.
• Acceptance should be communicated by December; follow up if you have not received confirmation.

Dates:

• Applications open from 1 April to 31 August for the following year.
• Registration is at the end of January/beginning of February, followed by a period of observation in schools, organized by the students with guidance from the SoE.
• School placements for teaching practice (TP) are arranged by the SoE during the PGCE year, with duration and periods confirmed once the year planner is published.

4. University of Pretoria (UP)

The University of Pretoria (UP) offers a PGCE program that focuses on producing well-rounded educators equipped with modern teaching methodologies. The program is designed to prepare graduates for teaching in the Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET) Phase.

Admission Requirements:

• Academic Qualifications: An appropriate Bachelor’s degree or an accredited and approved Diploma is required. Students with a 360-credit Diploma must provide evidence that their Diplomas are approved and accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training.
• Selection Process: Admission is competitive, and the selection committee may limit the number of students based on capacity and resources, even if all academic requirements are met.

Program Duration: The program is completed over one year on a full-time basis.

Special Examinations: A final-year student who fails a maximum of three semester modules with a final mark of at least 40% in each may be admitted to a special examination in January of the following year. This is contingent on it enabling the student to meet all certificate requirements.

Assessment: Continuous assessment based on competence criteria. Feedback is provided at the end of the first semester. At the end of the year, students present and defend their professional portfolio before a panel of internal and external examiners.

Contact Information:

• Package Coordinator:
  • Dr. Yolandi Woest
  • Email: yolandi.woest@up.ac.za
  • Tel: +27 (0)12 420 5532
• Administrative Enquiries:
  • Miss Kayla Lottering
  • Email: pgceassistant@gmail.com
  • Tel: 012 420 2904
• Application Enquiries:
  • Ms. T Mngomezulu
  • Tel: +27 012 420 5615
  • Email: thandi.mngomezulu@up.ac.za
  • Ms. M Tshabalala
  • Tel: +27 012 420 5652
  • Email: mannana.tshabalala@up.ac.za

5. University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)

The University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) offers a comprehensive Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) program designed to prepare graduates for teaching in the Senior Phase (grades 7-9) and Further Education and Training (FET, grades 10-12) phases of schooling.

Program Details:

• Programme Code: HXA00 (full-time); HXA02 (part-time)
• The program is available on both a full-time basis (1 year) and a part-time basis (2 years).
• Full-time students attend lectures during the day, while part-time lectures take place from 17:30 to 21:00, accommodating working professionals.

Career Opportunities: Graduates are trained to become secondary school teachers capable of teaching one FET subject and at least one SP subject.

Curriculum: All applicants must complete the following courses:

Entry Requirements:

• Refer to the specific PGCE entry requirements for detailed information.
• Applications are referred to the relevant school for assessment once complete with the necessary documentation.

University Application Process:

• Applications are managed centrally by the Student Enrolment Centre (SEnC).
• Submit applications online and upload supporting documents via the Self Service Portal.
• Applicants can monitor the progress of their applications through the portal.
• Final selection is subject to availability of places, academic results, and other entry requirements.

Contact Information:

• Student Call Centre: +27 (0)11 717 1888
• Log a query at www.wits.ac.za/askwits

6. Stellenbosch University

Stellenbosch University (SU) offers a PGCE program with a strong emphasis on developing both theoretical and practical teaching skills. The aim of this program is to provide educators for the Further Education and Training (FET) Band. The new PGCE program, approved and accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training, has been offered since 2018.

Admission Requirements:

• General Requirements:
  • A bachelor’s degree from a recognized university that meets specific conditions.
• Specific Requirements for Teaching Modules:
  • A second-year or third-year subject (comprising a single year module or two semester modules) in your teaching areas, depending on the specific prerequisite pass requirements for each Teaching module.
  • You cannot meet the admission requirements of a Teaching subject by doing undergraduate modules simultaneously with the relevant Teaching subject.

Application Procedure:

• Application: Apply in writing to be admitted to the PGCE program by 30 September.
• Current SU Students: Apply at my.sun.ac.za.
• Non-SU Students: Apply online at www.sun.ac.za/pgstudies.

Duration of Program: The PGCE program is presented over one academic year.

Promotion Requirements: Achieve a final mark of 50% for each module.

Enquiries:

• Program Coordinator: Dr. C America
  • Tel.: 021 808 3793
  • Email: camerica@sun.ac.za
• For more detailed information, visit SU Education.

7. University of KZN (UKZN)

UKZN’s PGCE programs are designed to prepare educators to meet the diverse needs of South African learners. The university offers PGCE programs in two specializations:

1. Further Education and Training Phase: Grades 10 to 12
2. Senior and Further Education and Training Phase: Grades 7 to 12

Curriculum Rules: Students must adhere to the curriculum rules in the College of Humanities Handbook:

• Further Education and Training Phase: Students need to qualify for two FET Teaching Specialisations from the list of approved FET Teaching Specialisations.
• Senior and Further Education and Training Phase: Students need to qualify for one FET Teaching Specialisation and one SP Teaching Specialisation from the respective lists.

The PGCE primarily focuses on developing teaching skills (how to teach) rather than subject knowledge (what to teach). Students are expected to have the necessary subject knowledge in their chosen teaching subjects before starting the PGCE. The subjects a student qualifies to teach are determined by the structure of their initial degree.

Important Notes:

• A minimum of five students per module is required for a module to be offered.
• Some modules are only offered on specific campuses.

8. North-West University (NWU)

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) program at North-West University (NWU) is designed to prepare student teachers to become competent professional educators in various educational and training careers. The PGCE program, with SAQA ID: 97757, is focused on the initial training of teachers for teaching in the Senior and Further Education and Training (FET) Phases, covering Grades 7 to 12.

Curriculum Structure: The qualification consists of a minimum of 140 credits divided into at least 15 modules. These include fundamental modules, generic modules, specialisation methodologies, and additional modules.

Key Competencies Developed:

• Developing and demonstrating a deep knowledge and understanding of education theory and practice.
• Integrating education theory and practice as applied competence.
• Demonstrating and implementing subject-specific pedagogical competencies.
• Developing and demonstrating knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values to become responsible, independent, and contributing scholars.
• Developing and demonstrating critical, creative, and reflective problem-solving skills.

Articulation Possibilities:

• Vertical Articulation: Access to B Ed Honours (NQF 8) or a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (NQF 8), and further postgraduate studies (Master’s & Doctoral Degrees).
• Horizontal Articulation: Access to the Advanced Diploma (Education) qualification on NQF level 7 for roles like school librarianship or education for the deaf.

Study Duration:

• Minimum duration: 1 year (two examination opportunities)
• Maximum duration: 3 years (six examination opportunities)

9. Rhodes University

Rhodes University’s PGCE program is renowned for its commitment to educational excellence and innovation. While the university has accreditation to offer PGCE programs in Foundation Phase teaching and Intermediate Phase teaching, it currently only offers the PGCE for the combined Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET).

Note: A two-year, part-time option is available in exceptional cases through special permission.

• Mode of Delivery: The PGCE is an in-attendance qualification and is not offered through distance learning or online learning.
• Entry Requirements: Admission to the PGCE program is based on the subjects studied during the undergraduate degree, following the guidelines set by the Department of Higher Education and Training.

General Admission Requirements:

• An appropriate bachelor’s or higher degree.
• A minimum average of 60% in the undergraduate degree.
• Specific Requirements: Subjects studied must qualify the applicant to teach one teaching method at the FET level and one at the FET or Senior Phase level.
• Minimum entry requirement: 65% average in the method subject at the second year of the undergraduate degree.

10. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)

Nelson Mandela University (NMU) provides PGCE programs that focus on developing critical thinking and reflective teaching practices. The PGCE at NMU is a one-year professional teaching qualification offered on a full-time basis at the South Campus in Port Elizabeth. Upon successful completion of the PGCE, graduates will be qualified to teach either:

• Two subjects at the Further Education and Training (FET) level (Grades 10 to 12), or
• One subject at the FET level (Grades 10 to 12) and one subject at the Senior Phase (SP) level (Grades 7 to 9).

Successful completion of the PGCE also allows candidates to pursue further studies such as the BEd Honours or Postgraduate Diploma in Education (NQF level 8).

11. Central University of Technology (CUT)

The Central University of Technology (CUT) offers PGCE programs that emphasize practical teaching experience and community engagement. This program is designed to equip graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective educators in South Africa.

Programme Overview

• Program Code: PGCSFP
• Campus: Bloemfontein Campus, Welkom Campus
• Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
• Enrolment Option: Semester 1
• SAQA Credits: 144
• NQF Level: 7

Teaching Specializations:

• The program prepares graduates to teach either:
  • Two subjects at the Further Education and Training (FET) level (Grades 10 to 12), or
  • One subject at the FET level (Grades 10 to 12) and one subject at the Senior Phase (SP) level (Grades 7 to 9).

• Further Study Opportunities: Successful completion of the PGCE allows candidates to pursue further studies such as the BEd Honours or Postgraduate Diploma in Education (NQF level 8).

• Admission Requirement: To be eligible for the PGCE program at CUT, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Educational Qualifications:
  • A bachelor’s degree or a three-year diploma evaluated at NQF level 6 (old structure) or NQF level 7 (new structure) with 360 credits.
  • The degree or diploma must include at least two school-related subjects.
• Subject-Specific Requirements:
  • One school-related subject must be at either the second-year or third-year level for FET Methodology.
  • One school-related subject must be at the first-year level for SP Methodology.
  • The 360-credit diploma teaching subjects must fall within the fields specified by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
• Selection Criteria:
  • Selection is subject to academic performance in the major subjects of the degree/diploma.
  • Capacity regarding the methodologies is also considered during the selection process.

Application Process:

• Applications for the PGCE program can be submitted online. Prospective students should ensure all necessary documents are ready for upload at the time of application.
• Application Dates:
  • Applications open annually, and the closing date is typically 30th September. Late applications may not be accepted.
• Contact Information:
  • For detailed information or specific queries regarding the PGCE program at CUT, prospective students can contact the university’s admissions office.

Admissions Office Contact:

• Phone: +27 (0)51 507 3911
• Email: info@cut.ac.za
• Website: CUT Education Faculty

12. MANCOSA

MANCOSA provides PGCE programs with a focus on flexible learning options for working professionals. The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Further Education and Training (FET) Teaching is designed to develop graduates who wish to teach within the FET phase (Grades 10-12).

Programme Overview

Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Further Education and Training (FET) Teaching

• Duration: 18 months
• Mode of Delivery: Online through distance learning with online support

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the PGCE program at MANCOSA, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Educational Qualifications:
  • A relevant undergraduate Bachelor’s degree.
  • The degree should include modules that align with the teaching subjects offered within the FET phase (Grades 10-12).

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must have obtained a minimum average of 60% for their undergraduate degree.
• Applicants can select teaching subjects from a list of specialisations offered by MANCOSA.

Specialisations Offered

Teaching subject choices can be selected from a list of specialisations offered by MANCOSA. These specialisations are aligned with the subjects typically taught in the FET phase, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the educational needs of high school students.

Flexible Learning and Online Support

MANCOSA’s PGCE program is delivered online through distance learning, providing flexibility for working professionals. The online support includes:

• Access to online learning materials and resources
• Interactive online sessions with educators
• Forums and discussion groups for peer support
• Continuous assessment and feedback from lecturers

Application Process

Applications for the PGCE program at MANCOSA can be submitted online. Prospective students should ensure all necessary documents are ready for upload at the time of application.

• Application Dates:
  • Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but it is recommended to apply early to secure a place in the program.
• Contact Information:
  • For detailed information or specific queries regarding the PGCE program at MANCOSA, prospective students can contact the university’s admissions office.

Admissions Office Contact:

• Phone: +27 (0)31 300 7200
• Email: info@mancosa.co.za
• Website: MANCOSA Education Faculty

Related: How to Calculate APS Score for University Admission in the 2025 Academic Year

Funding Your PGCE

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) does not fund PGCE courses. However, there are other options available for funding your studies, including:

1. Funza Lushaka Bursary: This government bursary program aims to promote teaching in priority subject areas.
2. Fundi: An education finance specialist offering loans and bursaries for higher education.
3. Student Loans: Various banks and financial institutions provide student loans for those pursuing PGCE studies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the duration of a PGCE program?
A: A PGCE program typically takes one to two years to complete, depending on whether you enroll as a full-time or part-time student.

Q: Can I study a PGCE part-time?
A: Yes, many institutions that offer PGCE in South Africa provide part-time programs to accommodate working professionals.

Q: What are the entry requirements for a PGCE program?
A: Entry requirements vary by institution but generally include an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject area.

Q: Is it possible to get funding for a PGCE program?
A: While NSFAS does not fund PGCE programs, other options like the Funza Lushaka Bursary and student loans are available.

Q: Can I teach overseas with a South African PGCE?
A: Yes, many countries recognize the South African PGCE, but you may need to meet additional requirements depending on the country.

A PGCE is a valuable qualification for anyone looking to become a professional teacher in South Africa. With various institutions that offer PGCE, prospective teachers have a wide range of options to choose from. Although NSFAS does not fund PGCE studies, there are other financial aid options available to help you achieve your teaching aspirations.