Do I need a degree to become a teacher in Scotland?
Yes. You do need a degree to be a teacher in Scotland.
What qualifications do you need to teach in Scotland?
There are two ways to qualify for teaching in Scotland. One is to complete a four year undergraduate degree in education. The other is to complete a year’s postgraduate Professional Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE).
"Teaching History can sometimes be quite challenging as students often ask why they need to learn about the past. Once I explain the skills they learn in class are invaluable and show how they’re relevant to future jobs then they do get on board."Kate Riddell – History Teacher at Hawick High School
![](https://teachin.union-sg.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Kate-Riddell-ISOLATED_SPEECHMARKS-1-300x209.png)
How do you qualify for an undergraduate teaching degree in Scotland?
You will need to have English at Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) Level 6 and Maths Level 5. You’ll also need two other National Qualifications at SCQF Level 6, and one other subject as SCQF Level 5 to qualify for a teaching degree.
How do you qualify for a PGDE
You’ll need to have an undergraduate degree, as well as English at SCQF Level 6 and Maths Level 5. Teaching experience isn’t strictly required but experience either in a classroom or relevant experience with young people will help with successful applications.