Students from 23 countries across six continents have begun studying for a University of Worcester postgraduate qualification without leaving their home countries.
The University’s new International Postgraduate Certificate in Education (iPGCE) is connecting aspiring educators from locations including South Korea, South Africa, Canada, India and Peru, all learning online from the University’s education specialists while continuing to live and work in their own communities.
The students have met academic and English language entry requirements to secure places on the programme, which gives them the chance to gain a UK postgraduate qualification from the University of Worcester.
Kate Howen, Course Leader for the iPGCE, said seeing learners connect from around the world had been an exciting start to the academic year.
“We have people joining us on the programme from countries around the world, including Azerbaijan, Czech Republic, Ireland, Italy, Kazakhstan, the USA, Vietnam and so many more,” she said.
The one-year programme is delivered entirely online, combining live and recorded learning with tutor support and small-group sessions. Students study from their own locations while gaining a qualification from the University of Worcester, whose teacher education provision has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted.
Kate said the international nature of the programme created a rich learning environment.
“The students have all been so engaged and the feedback has been so positive,” she said. “We’ve also got some students who are here in the UK, who have taken the iPGCE as part of their own professional and academic development and their longer-term goals in education.”
A key feature of the programme is its flexibility, helping students participate regardless of where they’re based.
“Students on the programme are encouraged to think about their long-term careers, and how the iPGCE can support their professional goals,” said Kate. “We work with students to explore what additional qualifications, experience or certifications they might need to make those goals a reality.”
Kate, who has worked in education at the University of Worcester for a decade after completing her own studies at the University, said she was proud to see Worcester’s expertise reaching educators across different countries.
“I’m so incredibly proud to see the excellent teacher training we offer here at Worcester making a difference to educators all around the world.”
Learn more about the iPGCE course at the University of Worcester.