Graduate Certificate in University Teaching (GCUT)

GCUT is a part-time course designed to enhance the teaching skills of staff in higher education institutions.

The Graduate Certificate in University Teaching combines research-based, theoretical seminars with practical exercises involving peer review and negotiated projects. It is offered part-time to complement participants’ current teaching practice. This course is suitable for staff currently teaching in higher education institutions, or staff in vocational and training institutions who plan to teach in higher education.

• Learning outcomes
  • A critical understanding of the principles of effective teaching for learning in higher education
  • Knowledge of some of the key research relating to university teaching and learning, and the major debates in the area
  • A student-centred perspective on the nature of teaching and learning
  • An understanding of learning environments and of teaching approaches appropriate to those environments
  • Skills in large and small group teaching
  • An understanding of the place of assessment in higher education and skills in using assessment design to enhance learning
  • Knowledge and skills in university curriculum design
  • Awareness of innovative teaching procedures and confidence in experimenting with new approaches
  • An understanding of how educational technologies can be used to enhance and enrich student learning, and skills in designing programs which incorporate these technologies
  • A readiness to reflect on their own teaching practice and to use this reflection as a means of continuous improvement.
• Benefits

  Past graduates have reported positive career outcomes, including:

  • Improved knowledge in effective teaching and curriculum design and increased skills in facilitating student learning
  • Increased confidence for confirmation and promotion applications
  • Publication in academic journals
  • Success in winning teaching awards and grants for educational research and development.