Education (Primary Teaching)

The Professional Master of Education (Primary Teaching) (PMEP) programme equips students with the principles, curriculum knowledge and pedagogical understanding with which to begin their teaching careers as competent and committed professionals. The programme is responsive to the changing contexts of primary education, offering student teachers opportunities to engage critically with the interface between society and education.

As with any professional course, the Professional Master of Education is intensive and requires a considerable commitment from students. It is also a rewarding and interesting experience and you will find that you have been comprehensively prepared for your teaching career.

The programme aims to develop graduates who:

• Are competent, professional and knowledgeable in their approach to teaching, learning, curriculum and assessment;
• Become adaptive experts and critically reflective practitioners who continue to grow and learn throughout their careers;
• Facilitate the holistic development of all children in terms of their emotional, social, personal, physical, creative, spiritual and intellectual capacities, promoting their agency across all areas of school life;
• Recognise and meet the needs of all learners with insight, expertise and respect;
• Become collaborative, supportive and committed members of school communities, learning communities and the teaching profession;
• Engage in ethical practice informed by a critical concern for social justice, equality and care and respect for others locally and globally, and recognise all children as citizens, rights-holders and active agents in their own learning.

Certificate in Religious Studies - Optional Modules

The Certificate in Religious Education (CRS) is offered in parallel to the PMEP programme i.e. it is not a constituent of the degree. The CRS prepares teachers to teach in Catholic schools in accordance with the requirements of the Council for Catechetics of the Irish Episcopal Conference. In making appointments, Catholic school management boards will normally require the CRS as a condition of employment.  It is provided as an option over the 2 years of the PMEP programme.