Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education Practice (part-time)
Foundation
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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.
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.
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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 only open to staff at Birmingham Newman University, Collaborative Partners or those in medical settings 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.
Please contact Admissions if you have any questions.
Course fees
The tuition fee for academic year 2025/26 is: £2,950
Fees for the 2026/27 academic year are subject to change and will be published here on 9 February 2026.
Additional costs
The University will review tuition fees and increase fees in line with any inflationary uplift as determined by the UK Government, if permitted by law or government policy, in subsequent years of your course. It is anticipated that such increases would be linked to RPI (the Retail Price Index excluding mortgage interest payments).
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Where this course can take you. You will graduate with a Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) at Level 7, recognised across the HE sector and aligned with the Professional Standards Framework 2023 (PSF 2023). Many participants use the qualification to support Advance HE Fellowship applications or progress into academic leadership, curriculum development or pedagogic research. Whether you work in teaching, student support or educational development, you will be equipped to lead inclusive, evidence-informed practice and contribute confidently to the future of higher education. You will also join a professional network of Birmingham Newman colleagues and alumni committed to values-driven learning and sector-wide improvement.
Accreditations and Exemptions
This Level 7 qualification is recognised across the higher education sector and aligned with the Professional Standards Framework 2023 (PSF 2023). Many participants use the PG Cert to support Advance HE Fellowship applications (Associate or Fellow level), or to progress into roles in academic leadership, curriculum development or pedagogic research. While the course does not offer exemptions from other professional bodies, it provides a respected and values-led route to enhancing your career in higher education. It also forms part of Birmingham Newman University’s wider commitment to developing reflective, inclusive professionals who make a lasting impact across the sector.
