Course Overview

Physics is a fundamental science. As a physics teacher, you’ll inspire learners with knowledge of the laws governing our natural world and its place in the universe. From how we can harness and use energy to the discovery and exploration of planets and stars, physics covers a range of applications of the relationships discovered through experiment and calculation.

Teaching is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding careers you can pursue – providing the opportunity to shape the minds of tomorrow.

The course provides the theoretical and practical starting point for your teaching career. You'll acquire the skills, attitudes and competencies to communicate in the classroom.

One of the highlights of the course for many student teachers is attending the residential Scottish Universities’ Science School (SUSS), where you will meet student science teachers from other Scottish Universities. SUSS offers an excellent opportunity to begin networking with other future science teachers.

General Eligibility

Degree requirements

An honours degree or international equivalent.

Degree must include:

• 80 SCQF credits from a broad spread of the following subjects:

  • electricity and magnetism

  • electronics

  • optics

  • mechanics

  • dynamics

  • nuclear and atomic physics

  • physics

  • astrophysics

  • geophysics

  • space physics

Degrees in engineering will be considered providing they include 80 SCQF credits from the list of subjects above.

Maths & English

• Higher (SCQF Level 6) English Grade C or above.

• National 5 (SCQF Level 5) Mathematics Grade C or above.

Maths and English qualifications can be in progress at the time of application.

Acceptable alternative Maths and English qualifications are listed on our PGDE FAQs page.

Part Time Work Details

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.

Language Requirement

• IELTS 6.5 (no individual test score below 5.5)