Entry requirements

We welcome students from all backgrounds and accept a wide range of qualifications. If yours aren’t listed, don’t worry – our Admissions Team can help you explore your options. See full entry requirements.

A relevant honours degree, 2:2 or above.

The PG Cert Higher Education Practice is currently open to people who are in a teaching or learning capacity role that have or can engage in teaching experience and who are able to reflect on their practice in teaching and/or the support of student learning in higher education. Please note you must be engaged in at least 180 practice hours across the academic year.

If English is not your first language, you must have an IELTS score of 6.5, with no element below 6.0. (Other English language qualifications are also accepted. Please contact admissions for further information).

Consideration will be given to applicants with lower grade in qualifications (e.g. a 3rd class degree or non-honours degree) who have a relevant range of post study professional experience. Professional experience will be considered by the programme leader in conjunction with the quality office on an individual basis.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Discover how inclusive pedagogy and real-world experience come together to support effective practice in higher education. The PG Cert Higher Education Practice at Birmingham Newman University is designed for professionals working in teaching or learning support roles across the HE sector. Whether you’re new to higher education or looking to deepen your existing practice, this Level 7 programme offers a values-led route to academic development. You’ll explore the theory and context of contemporary HE, engage with inclusive curriculum design and critically reflect on your own teaching or support role. The course encourages you to draw on lived experience, contribute to collaborative learning and develop the confidence to lead positive change in your institution.

What you’ll study and how you’ll learn. You will study three core modules: Higher Education Practice, Programme Design in Higher Education and Academic Practice Development. These cover key areas such as curriculum theory, assessment design, inclusive learning environments and the wider policy landscape of global higher education. Learning is delivered through a blend of independent online study and live online sessions, with opportunities for peer observation, collaborative discussion and formative feedback. You’ll complete a range of reflective and research-informed tasks, including patchwork texts, a professional context statement, a course design assignment and a conference-style presentation. Each element is designed to help you theorise your practice and apply learning directly to your professional context.

Why Study This Course?

The PG Cert Higher Education Practice at Birmingham Newman University offers a focused and reflective journey into the principles and practices of teaching and learning in higher education. Designed for professionals looking to enhance their academic practice, the course supports a deeper understanding of how to engage and empower diverse learners. Whether you are new to teaching or aiming to enrich your existing approach, the programme provides the insight and confidence to make a lasting impact on student learning.

‘Students consistently highlight the reflective and compassionate approach to teaching. They value the thoughtful feedback, supportive presence, and tutor ability to challenge and encourage in equal measure.’ Dr. Sarah Parkes – Reader in Collaborative Pedagogies & Practice

Explore the theory and delivery of learning in higher education

Throughout the course, you will explore how to design effective learning experiences, teach inclusively, provide constructive feedback and support students across their academic journey. Critical reflection is central to the programme, encouraging you to evaluate your own practice and consider how higher education can evolve to meet the needs of a diverse and changing student population. With modules aligned to the PSF 2023, the course enables you to shape your development in line with your professional goals.

Supportive and Personalised Learning

At Birmingham Newman, you will join a collaborative academic community that values your experience and supports your growth. The course is delivered through a blend of live online sessions, independent study and peer-supported learning. You will be guided by a team with expertise in academic development, inclusive pedagogy and sector policy, and benefit from personalised feedback and structured opportunities for reflection. Whether you are working towards Fellowship of Advance HE or simply looking to enhance your teaching, you will be supported every step of the way.

Fees and funding

UK students

£3416.00

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

PGCert
part time
12 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name: Admissions Team
Email: admissions@newman.ac.uk

Phone: 0121 476 1181

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Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education Practice