PGCert in Learning, Teaching & Assessment in Higher Education

1. UL employees

Employees at UL have the opportunity to avail of a fee waiver provided that they are employed for the duration of the programme. To apply for a fee waiver, please complete the  Further Study Application form  and forward to the Human Resources Division furtherstudystaff@ul.ie

2. Applicants not employed in UL

External applicants and UL PhD Students are liable for full tuition fees (registration fees still apply).  Further information can be found on Finance Documents | University of Limerick (ul.ie) under Student Fees Documents.

Please refer to the checklist below to ensure that all requirements of for the application are met, including upload of all the required documents.

Checklist for Applicants 

Course Director

Dr. Michael Wride 
Transformative Pedagogies Lead
Centre for Transformative Learning (CTL)
University of Limerick

Limerick, Ireland

Email: michael.wride@ul.ie with any queries

Testimonials:

“The programme was of immense value to me. In addition to greatly enhancing my knowledge relating to teaching, learning and scholarship, it also provided me with a wealth of practical tips that I apply regularly to each of these elements of my work.”

“I found all the modules beneficial in some way. I really enjoyed the experience, the learning, the friendships and the sense that I have a network of support for the future in UL.”

“Many of the things I learnt in the Diploma about online teaching and ensuring that students aren't overwhelmed with too many online activities and assessments (especially at this stressful time for them) has been very helpful to me.

“I'm sure I'm not the first person to say this to you, but who would have thought that all our work on blended learning would come into play so suddenly? I know I'd be finding the current situation much more difficult without having spent so much time thinking about my teaching practice over the last six months, so thanks to you and all the other module leaders for that!”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the time commitment required?

• Each 15 ECTs per module requires a significant amount of total participant engagement time considering Bologna Process hours per ECTS.
• You should discuss taking this course with your Head of Department and confirm that you have sufficient time to commit to the course given local workload allocations

2. How flexible is the course delivery?

• The programme starts prior to Semester 1 with an induction in orientation week along with some block teaching in the first module (1^st week of September); Semester 2 follows a similar format.
• Other than the pre-semester block teaching, all sessions take place during the day during standard teaching weeks, with assignments due towards the end of each semester.
• Scheduling is variable, e.g. weekly on alternating days; Wed & Thurs,
• The programme is blended and is designed with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles in mind, e.g. multiple modes of engagement including multiple formats (in-person, online, hybrid),
• Online synchronous and asynchronous options include access and engagement with learning materials through Brightspace, including recordings of webinars and any hybrid sessions.
• While in-person/synchronous attendance is preferred as there is huge value in being part of the learning community in terms of peer learning;
  • however, we do appreciate that flexibility is required for professional learners who have their own teaching commitments.
  • We would appreciate that when you cannot attend for good reason that you communicate this to the relevant module leader well in advance.
• Assessment requirements will be communicated to you by the relevant module leader at the start of the module – there may be formative assessment during the semester as well as summative assessment to be submitted at the end of the semester. You may also be required to take part in interactive orals as part of the assessment.

3. How do I avail of the fee waiver (for UL staff)?

• You should apply for the fee-waiver by completing the Further Study Application form for the academic year in which you intend to take the PGCert in LTA.
• The Further Study Form is available in the Programme Fees section.
• HR will review your application and, if your contract meets the criteria - will provide you with a confirmation email which you should attach as a screenshot when accepting the offer of a place on the programme – the acceptance fee is covered by the fee waiver.

4. Will there be a conferring ceremony for the PGCert?

• Yes, - the ceremony is typically in late August (unless you decide to progress to the PGDip, Year 2).

5. When do I need to decide about progressing to the PGDip?

• To progress to the PGDip (Year 2), students must achieve a minimum of 2.2 Honours (C1 grade) in the PGCert.
• After the exam board at the end of the PGCert year (mid-June ), Academic Registry will contact eligible students.
• Students must accept or decline the PGDip offer – there is no option to accept and defer.
• If you decline the offer, you will graduate with the PGCert and can then apply to the PGDip later through the standard application process.

6. Will I receive a PGCert if I progress to the PGDip?

• No. The PGDip supersedes the PGCert.

7. Can I still apply for jobs that require a PGCert if I’m progressing to the PGDip?

• Yes, you can state that you’ve completed the first year (PGCert) and are progressing to the PGDip.
• Academic Registry can provide official confirmation if needed.

8. I am a PhD student, can I take this course?

• Yes, you can, though you will be eligible for full fees unless you are also a UL staff member
• Approval for dual registration will be required in the cover letter at application if you are currently registered on another programme in UL.

 9. I already have a similar 30 ECTS PGCert or related qualification in Learning & Teaching from another institution, am I eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

• Yes – potentially – please email the Course Director prior to your application with details of your qualification.
• The Course Director will then advise you of the RPL approval and application process.