Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

The course begins in September with an induction programme that establishes a solid foundation for progressing through the year and also helps to build a dynamic Irish-medium community of learning.

This includes a week of workshops and taught sessions in College, a Gaeltacht-based week with a focus on Irish competence and an introductory week in an Irish-medium primary school.

During the year, students gain experience across all phases of primary education. Practical experience is gained in both Irish-medium and English-medium schools, with placements organised by the College.

PGCE students may also take the Religious Education Certificate course, which prepares student teachers for a role in Catholic schools. Teaching in Religious Education is based on both sacred scripture and the tradition of the Church.

Download our Prospectus

Find out more by downloading our prospectus.

Download prospectus

Student Experience

Go raibh míle maith agaibh as gach rud le linn na bliana. Bhí bliain den scoth agam.

Aileen Mc Fadden

Irish-medium PGCE

Well what can I say about St Mary’s, I have really enjoyed studying the IME PGCE course here. The lecturers ensured that classes were so practical and fun, it was just like being back at school. I can’t wait to bring all of what I have learnt in the short year into the classroom along with me. I loved every minute of studying in St Mary’s, it has a very warm welcoming for you as a student from day one from the staff, students right down to the catering staff. You are always made welcome early in the morning before classes right up to closing time in the library at night by the security staff. I wish I could come back in September I have made friends for life in lecturers and in my class itself.

Make the right choice & apply, you genuinely won’t be disappointed.

Nicole Clarke

Irish-medium PGCE

How to apply

Applications for 2025 entry are now open.

Please download the application form, complete and return via email to the Academic Registry before 7th March 2025.

Download Application