MA in Education with Qualified Teacher Status
What is the MA in Education with QTS?
The MA(Ed) with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is an innovative qualification for those completing a Masters level PGCE course at Durham University. The degree was introduced in 2000 to enable Newly Qualified Teachers (NQTs) to complete a higher degree by combining elements of their PGCE with further Masters level work. Durham University was one of the first universities in the UK to offer such a programme.
How does it work?
The course takes three years to complete. The first year is the full-time PGCE year. The next two years are studied part-time. During the part-time years participants complete Masters level modules. Most participants in years 2 and 3 are full-time teachers, although this is not a requirement.
You must apply for entry to Durham University's PGCE primary or secondary course through the Graduate Teacher Training Registry (GTTR). Part-way through the PGCE course you will be informed about the arrangements for transfer directly to the 2nd year of the programme. Those transferring must complete all parts of the PGCE to the required standard, including achieving QTS.
You must apply for entry to Durham University's PGCE primary or secondary course through the Graduate Teacher Training Registry (GTTR). Part-way through the PGCE course you will be informed about the arrangements for transfer directly to the 2nd year of the programme. Those transferring must complete all parts of the PGCE to the required standard, including achieving QTS. How do I apply?
Who is eligible?
Trainee teachers accepted on to the PGCE primary and secondary courses are eligible for transfer to the 2nd year of the MA(Ed) with QTS degree. This is subject to successful completion of the PGCE course.
What if I did my PGCE at a different university?
Contact the Course Leader, Dr Anji Rae, for advice.
How is the course structured?
Masters degrees require a total of 180 credits. For the MA(Ed) with QTS, 90 credits are awarded from the full-time PGCE primary or secondary course. These accrue through successful completion of two major essays, Teaching and Learning and Directed Study and six QTS assignments. The remaining 90 credits can be taken in two different ways:-
Route A
Evaluating Educational Research module (30 credits) Year 2
Dissertation (60 credits) Year 3
Route B
Education Research in Action (30 credits) Year 2
Choice module from a range available each year (30 credits) Year 2/3
Supervised Independent Study (30 credits) Year 3
Do you have to have a teaching job in Durham?
No. The course is taught through weekend workshops so you can travel to Durham to attend these.
How will I fit years two and three into what is a very busy time as a newly qualified teacher?
The NQT year is busy and stressful – hence the course is structured so that most participants take only one 30 credit module in year 2. The weekend workshops provide teaching at half-terms. This means that teachers can attend in holiday periods. Distance learning means that contact is maintained with tutors who provide support and guidance. DUO (Durham University Online) also offers a means of contact between staff and students.
Do I have to take the MA if I come to Durham for my PGCE year?
No. Years 2 and 3 of the MA(Ed) with QTS are optional. You can complete only the PGCE course if you wish.
What if I register for the MA but decide not to continue?
Occasionally circumstances mean that completing the full MA(Ed) with QTS is not possible or desirable. Those completing one 30 credit module to the standard required in addition to the PGCE can leave with a Postgraduate Diploma in Education worth 120 credits. Those leaving after the PGCE get only the PGCE. If you register for year 2, then decide to withdraw, you must do so at least two weeks before your first teaching date to avoid paying any fees.
How will I finance the part-time element of the degree?
The fees follow the modular structure. At present, the fees for home and EU/EEA students are £470 per 30 credit module. This figure includes a subsidy from the TDA for participants with QTS. Note that those going into NQT posts who register for the MA(Ed) with QTS 2nd year can ask their schools to contribute to course fees. Appropriate arrangements can be made with the University for a third party such as a school to pay fees. Fees can also be paid by monthly direct debit.
Will the award of an MA help in my teaching career?
The UK government is moving gradually towards teaching becoming a Masters degree profession. Potentially in future all teachers may be expected to possess or achieve Masters level qualifications in education. Thus, taking the opportunity to maximise the work involved in getting a PGCE by turning it into a Masters degree could prove a shrewd move. Career advancement into promoted posts is aided by possession of Masters degrees.
Can I count MA work towards a research degree?
Yes. The Doctorate in Education (EdD) programme is available for those interested in pursuing research. Further information about the EdD programme can be obtained from the EdD course leader, Prof. Mike Fleming.
Interested in Applying?
Click here for further information.