Physics

Physics teacher training options

There are a few routes into teaching Physics. You can study a four-year combined degree in education and Physics, or take a one-year diploma course following your undergraduate degree in Physics. And if these options don’t quite work for your circumstances, there are some alternative routes to consider.

Bursary for Physics teaching courses in Scotland

Bursaries are available for career changers who have been employed for at least three of the last five years and have already completed a Physics degree. Get more information about what could be available to you here.

Four year degree PGDE (post graduate) Alternate routes

Four-year university courses in education

For the four-year combined degree and other undergraduate degree programmes you must have at least:

English and two other National Qualifications at SCQF Level 6 (Higher Grade) AND
Mathematics and one other subject at SCQF Level 5 (or an accepted alternative, for example, National 5, Credit Standard Grade or Intermediate 2).

Check the entry requirements with the course provider.

Universities you can study in

University of Stirling University of the West of Scotland

PGDE university courses

Here are the universities you can study for a PDGE in Physics at secondary level. Entry requirements vary so it’s best to check with the course provider.

Universities you can study in

University of Aberdeen University of Dundee
University of Edinburgh University of Glasgow
University of Strathclyde University of the West of Scotland
University of the Highlands and Islands Napier University

Alternate routes into teaching

These routes offer a little more flexibility in order to encourage diversity in the profession:

Distance Learning Initial Teacher Education PGDE Secondary – University of Aberdeen
Supported Induction Route (SIR) with a focus on STEM subjects – University of Dundee
Combined PGDE with integrated Masters & induction year in Secondary STEM subjects – University of Strathclyde

Stuart Law - Physics and Science Teacher at Douglas Academy

“I graduated with a degree in engineering, and was working in sports development and then in sales. I really wanted to challenge myself in an interesting and varied career and I thought ‘what about teaching?’. You need to keep on top of developments and the curriculum, and you’re challenged every day by the great questions young people ask. The job does have its difficulties, like being super organised and keeping on top of work. But it’s ultimately great fun, really interesting and very rewarding whenever you see some of the pupils having a light bulb moment like the great scientists before them once did. Teaching a STEM subject is a great career and I love almost every minute of it.”

View the Case Study

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