The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is a professional qualification that enables individuals to become educators in various teaching sectors. It is particularly beneficial for those who already hold a degree in a specific field but wish to switch to a teaching career.
Institutions that offer PGCE (Contact and Distance Learning)
This guide outlines the institutions in South Africa that offer PGCE programs in both contact and distance learning formats for 2025.
1. University of Pretoria (UP)
Mode of Learning: Contact
Overview: The University of Pretoria offers a comprehensive PGCE program aimed at producing educators with a high standard of teaching and learning. The program is available in two teaching phases: the Foundation Phase (Grades R–3) and the Intermediate and Senior Phases (Grades 4–9).
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
- Accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE)
- Focus on subject knowledge, pedagogy, and practical teaching skills
- Multiple campuses for in-person learning
2. University of South Africa (UNISA)
Mode of Learning: Distance Learning
Overview: UNISA, a well-known distance learning institution, offers the PGCE program with an option for various teaching phases, including the Foundation, Intermediate, and Senior Phases. The program is designed for individuals who are unable to attend full-time, on-campus education but still want a comprehensive, accredited qualification.
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year
- Fully online and flexible study options
- Includes practical teaching experience through teaching placements
- Accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
3. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Mode of Learning: Contact
Overview: Wits University’s PGCE program prepares students to teach in the Foundation, Intermediate, and Senior Phases. It is recognized for producing well-trained and highly capable educators. The program integrates theory and practice, and students gain firsthand experience through practical teaching assignments.
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year full-time
- Offers specialization in specific teaching areas such as Mathematics, Science, and Languages
- Excellent practical training with experienced mentors
- Accredited and internationally recognized
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4. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Mode of Learning: Contact
Overview: Nelson Mandela University offers a PGCE with an emphasis on teaching in various educational contexts. The program is available in different teaching phases, and there is a strong focus on reflective practice and developing teaching skills that are adaptable to diverse classroom settings.
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
- Focus on technology-enhanced teaching and learning
- Practical teaching experience embedded in the program
- Accredited by the CHE
5. University of Cape Town (UCT)
Mode of Learning: Contact
Overview: UCT offers a high-quality PGCE program for graduates looking to teach at both primary and secondary school levels. The program focuses on developing teaching competencies in a range of subjects, such as Mathematics, Languages, and Science, preparing educators for the 21st-century classroom.
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year full-time
- Strong focus on educational research and theory
- Highly respected faculty with experience in education
- Offers both undergraduate and postgraduate specializations
6. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
Mode of Learning: Contact
Overview: CPUT offers a PGCE program that prepares students to teach in the Foundation and Intermediate Phases. The program emphasizes the development of teaching skills in line with the current educational curriculum and technology use in classrooms.
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year full-time
- Offers practical teaching placements
- Focus on inclusive education and educational equity
- Accredited by the CHE
7. University of Fort Hare (UFH)
Mode of Learning: Contact
Overview: The University of Fort Hare provides a PGCE program aimed at producing competent educators who are capable of adapting to the diverse needs of learners in various classroom settings. UFH offers the PGCE in various teaching phases and has a strong reputation for its education programs.
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year full-time
- Practical teaching experience embedded in the program
- Offers specializations in different subjects
- Focus on education for rural and urban schools
8. Stellenbosch University
Mode of Learning: Contact
Overview: Stellenbosch University’s PGCE program is recognized for its academic rigor and strong teaching methodology. The program offers various specializations and integrates theory with practical teaching experience, making it a well-rounded program for aspiring educators.
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year full-time
- Includes teaching placements and practical teaching experience
- Focus on curriculum development and contemporary educational issues
- Accredited by the CHE
9. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Mode of Learning: Contact
Overview: UKZN offers a PGCE program with both full-time and part-time options. The program prepares students for a career in teaching in the Foundation, Intermediate, and Senior Phases, with a strong emphasis on classroom management, educational research, and inclusive education.
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
- Strong focus on diversity and inclusive education
- Offers hands-on teaching experience and mentorship
- Accredited by the CHE
Read more: How a PGCE Qualification Can Unlock a World of Teaching Opportunities in South Africa and Beyond
10. University of Limpopo (UL)
Mode of Learning: Contact
Overview: The University of Limpopo offers a PGCE designed to develop well-rounded educators who can contribute to the development of education in South Africa. It is available in the Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, and Senior Phase.
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year full-time
- Emphasis on rural and community education
- Practical teaching assignments are included
- Accredited by the CHE
11. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Mode of Learning: Contact
Overview: UWC’s PGCE program is tailored for individuals interested in becoming qualified educators. The program is available for a variety of teaching phases, with a focus on innovative teaching methods, inclusive education, and practical experience in the classroom.
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year full-time
- Offers a blend of theoretical and practical education
- Opportunities for specialization in various subject areas
- Accredited by the CHE
Distance Learning Options
For those who prefer the flexibility of online education, institutions like UNISA and Southern Business School (SBS) offer PGCE programs that allow students to study from home, allowing them to balance other responsibilities while working towards their teaching qualifications.
Southern Business School (SBS)
Mode of Learning: Distance Learning
Overview: SBS offers a PGCE through a flexible learning format, allowing students to study online while still receiving practical teaching experience through assignments and placements.
Key Features:
- Duration: 1 year
- Fully online with remote support
- Practical teaching experience required
- Accredited by the CHE
Choosing the right institution for a PGCE program depends on your preferences regarding study mode (contact or distance), as well as factors like location, course specialization, and duration. South Africa offers a variety of reputable institutions for both contact and distance learning PGCE programs in 2025. Whether you prefer the traditional campus experience or the flexibility of distance learning, there are excellent options to prepare you for a fulfilling career in education.
