Transitioning Careers to Teaching with a Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE)

Switching to a career in teaching opens doors to a path of lifelong learning and professional development.

Malaysia's Education Ministry is on the lookout for up to 20,000 new teachers within the next five years, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for those aiming to establish a career in education.

The traditional path to becoming a teacher is to enrol in the Program Persediaan Ijazah Sarjana Muda Perguruan (PPISMP) followed by the Program Ijazah Sarjana Muda Perguruan (PISMP). The other common pathway often involves pursuing a degree in education or a related field such as early childhood education or special education. After completing a bachelor's degree programme, aspiring teachers typically undergo teacher training, which includes practical experience in classrooms and instruction on teaching methodologies, educational psychology and classroom management.

That being said, if you possess degrees in areas unrelated to education such as mass communication, business or other fields, the prospect of transitioning to teaching might initially seem intimidating and impossible.

However, through Wawasan Open University’s (WOU) Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) programme, it is entirely within reach!

Making the switch

The PGDE programme serves as a transformative shortcut for individuals aspiring to venture into teaching, regardless of their academic background.

Designed to cater to individuals from diverse fields of study, this programme eliminates the need to pursue an entirely new degree in education.

It instead offers an in-depth exploration of essential pedagogical theories, instructional strategies and educational methodologies, all within a condensed 16-month route. These components actively assist learners in developing a nuanced comprehension of teaching practices.

Being a teacher allows you to ignite the spark of curiosity and passion in your students, fostering their intellectual and personal growth.

Additionally, the programme's immersive 10-week teaching practicum offers invaluable hands-on experience in a real classroom environment. This experiential learning not only solidifies your understanding of teaching principles but also allows you to develop essential classroom management techniques, hone communication skills and adapt teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of students.

To further enhance your readiness for classroom practice in the digital age, WOU’s Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) programme is designed to ensure that all learners are equipped with the necessary technological skills.

Whether it's integrating educational technology into lesson plans, utilising digital resources for teaching and assessment, or navigating online learning platforms, the programme equips students with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in today's tech-savvy educational landscape.

Opting to pursue this programme at WOU offers you numerous advantages and benefits that can significantly enrich your educational experience and career prospects.

Catered to you

If the thought of breaking free from career stagnation and navigating a new journey alongside your current commitments feels overwhelming, rest assured as WOU recognises the value of flexibility.

WOU’s PGDE programme offers complete flexibility, allowing you to pursue it part-time through online Open and Distance Learning (ODL). Whether you're currently employed or managing other responsibilities, you can nurture your passion for teaching without disrupting your normal life.

Opting for the Post Graduate Diploma in Education programme at WOU not only provides you with unparalleled flexibility but also grants you the option to conduct your practicum within your current workplace, provided it aligns with the requirements.

This unique benefit not only streamlines the integration of your studies with your professional commitments but also offers the convenience of studying in familiar surroundings, fostering a conducive environment for learning.

Switching to education can empower you to cultivate a love for learning and make a positive difference in the lives of those you teach.

WOU also recognises the value of your prior experiences. That's why the university also provides the option for Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning for Credit (APEL.C).

Through APEL.C, you can align your prior experience with the programme outcomes. This potentially helps you earn degree credits and accelerate your journey into teaching, shortening your study duration while validating your existing skills.

WOU's PGDE not only equips you with the necessary tools to excel in teaching but also broadens your horizons to a multitude of career paths within the field of education. Whether your ambitions lie in curriculum development, education consultancy or other educational roles, the programme provides the essential skills towards success.

Let WOU turn your passion for teaching into a rewarding career. Click here to check out the programme!