Professional Master of Education

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Professional Master of Education (PME) at University College Cork is a comprehensive two-year, full-time postgraduate programme designed to equip you with the essential qualifications and skills to become a post-primary secondary school teacher. This 120-credit Masters Degree programme addresses the critical need for skilled educators in today's secondary schools, focusing on curriculum development, inclusive education, and the psychology and sociology of learning. You will explore the philosophy and history of education, preparing you to critically engage with pedagogical theories and their practical application in diverse classroom settings.

This on-campus course, studied full-time over two years, integrates extensive school placements with rigorous academic study, including core modules and specialist subject pedagogies. You will develop your professional knowledge, skills, and competence through practical experience in schools and university-led seminars, culminating in a significant professional research paper. Your learning journey includes School Placement 1 and 2, alongside modules on curriculum design and contemporary issues in Irish schools. You will graduate with the professional recognition and practical experience necessary to embark on a rewarding career as a registered post-primary teacher.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Professional Master of Education program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare educators for the complexities of the modern classroom. Year one focuses on foundational knowledge, including the philosophy and history of education, psychological and sociological perspectives, curriculum development, and inclusive practices, alongside practical school placements and specialized subject teaching methodologies. Year two builds upon this foundation with advanced topics such as contemporary issues in Irish schools, literacy and numeracy development, and the design of effective curriculum and assessment strategies, culminating in a professional research paper and further school placement.

1 Year 1 (60 credits)

Philosophy and history of education
Introduction to psychology and sociology of education
Curriculum and assessment
Inclusion – special educational needs and multicultural education
School placement 1
School placement: research and professional experiences portfolio A
School placement: research and professional experiences portfolio B
The teaching of business studies 1A
The teaching of civic, social and political education
The teaching of English
The teaching of a second language 1A
The teaching of a second language 1B
The teaching of geography
The teaching of history
The teaching of mathematics
The teaching of music
The teaching of religious education
The teaching of physical sciences
The teaching of biological sciences
The teaching of Irish
The teaching of business studies 1B
The teaching of home economics
The teaching of computer science

2 Year 2 (60 credits)

Collaborative seminar: contemporary issues in Irish schools
Literacy and numeracy development in the post-primary classroom
PME professional research paper
PME school placement 2
Specialist subject pedagogies 2
Designing curriculum and assessment for the contemporary classroom

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,762.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,762.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 43,525.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 777.00 - USD 1,595.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,491.00
Transport USD 702.00 - USD 1,684.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,913.00 - USD 8,280.00

Living cost estimates are based on Cork Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

93%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesHigher Education & UniversitiesSecondary & High School EducationSpecial & Inclusive EducationVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Department of Education and Youth

University of Limerick

Why Study Professional Master of Education at University College Cork

What makes this program stand out

Moderate Application response time

University College Cork typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University College Cork in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Professional Master of Education at University College Cork

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during breaks. No additional work permit is needed for full-time students enrolled in programs lasting at least one year.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Teaching Council of Ireland.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English language requirements, the Duolingo test requires a minimum overall score of 120. Alternative scores include an IELTS overall score of 6.5 or a PTE overall score of 63.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue job titles such as secondary school teacher, educational consultant, curriculum designer, and teacher educator.

What will I actually study in this course?

The PME at UCC is a 120-credit program that qualifies graduates as post-primary secondary school teachers. It includes school placements, university lectures, and emphasizes best practices in teaching and educational research.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Professional Master of Education (PME) at UCC has an intake in September. It is a full-time, two-year program designed for those pursuing a career in education.
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