Is DET Equivalent to a PGCE?

The Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (DET) and the PGCE are both initial teacher training qualifications used to progress into a teaching career. They are two separate qualifications, each with their own price, duration, advantages and disadvantages, but both will be recognised by employers as valid teaching qualifications.

Which qualification you choose to earn will depend largely on personal preference. In this article, we take a look at the differences between the DET and the PGCE to help you make the right decision.

What does the DET allow you to do?

The Diploma in Education and Training (DET) provides you with all the skills you need to become a teacher in post-16 education. It also allows you to apply for Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status, which is equivalent to qualified teacher status (QTS) and will allow you to teach in schools.

What does the PGCE allow me to do?

The PGCE is a postgraduate qualification that gives you qualified teacher status (QTS).

Essentially, the DET leads to QTLS status and the PGCE leads to QTS status. The QTS and the QTLS are equivalent and will allow you to teach in schools.

How long does it take to achieve the DET?

The DET takes approximately one year to complete if doing full time or two years to complete if doing part time. The course also requires a minimum of 100 hours of teaching practice and to be observed eight times in the classroom.

How long does it take to achieve the PGCE?

The PGCE takes approximately one year to complete if doing full time or two years to complete if doing part time. The course also requires a minimum of 100 hours of teaching practice and to be observed eight times in the classroom.

How much does the DET cost?

The Level 5 DET typically costs in the region of £1500-£2500.

CTC Training are currently running a limited offer where learners can enrol on the Level 5 DET for just £980 up front of 10 recurring payments of £98. 

How much does the PGCE cost?

The PGCE typically costs around £6000.

Is there an advantage to choosing one over the other?

The main advantages of earning the DET are the time and money saved compared to earning a PGCE. The DET is considerably cheaper and does not require you to have earned the Level 3 AET or the Level 4 CET before enrolling. 

Plus, PGCEs tend to be studied on campus on a set schedule, whereas the DET can be completed from home on a schedule that suits you.

The Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (DET) can be earned through CTC Training’s online learning platform. At CTC Training, we provide competitive prices, tutor support and a 24/7 student portal that allows you to access course content and upload assessments on a schedule that suits you.

Unlock your potential today. Enrol on the Level 5 DET today or contact our team for more information.