PGCert in Education

BRIDGE

KNOWLEDGE & INNOVATION

A 6-Month Journey Through the Postgraduate Certificate in Education. 

In Partnership with The International Leadership Training Institute.

ELEVATING
EDUCATORS

Hartwell University (HU) has partnered with The International Leadership Training Institute (TILTI) to offer this Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) program. It is a comprehensive 6-month course of study (ranging from 18-24 credits) designed to provide a deep dive into various aspects of education. The first half of the program offers broad-based learning, starting with foundational research skills, academic writing, and effective communication, before moving on to core concepts in the educational field. This includes critical thinking, problem-solving, introduction to educational technology, data analysis, pedagogical theories, curriculum design, classroom management, inclusive education, and key educational theories.

During the first 12 weeks, participants engage in literature reviews, group discussions, case studies, and develop their research proposals. This period includes mid-term assessments and the development and presentation of project proposals, with a focus on educational leadership, cross-cultural competence, special education, and project management.

The latter half of the program allows participants to specialize in one of five tracks listed below according to their interests and career goals. Each track is rich in seminars, workshops, and project work, with an emphasis on real-world applications and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The program culminates in a capstone project, where participants undertake a significant project within their specialization, followed by presentations and assessments. The final weeks are devoted to mentorship, revisions, and preparation for final assessments, leading to an optional graduation ceremony that also serves as a networking event.

This PGCert program is structured to equip educators and professionals with advanced knowledge, specialized skills, and practical experience to excel in various educational settings. It is a blend of theoretical learning and practical application, geared towards enhancing participants’ competencies in their chosen area of specialization.

All of the academic credit students earn from Hartwell University is done entirely online. Credits earned are transferable to a multitude of international and US-based colleges & universities through special partnerships. For more, see the colleges & universities page of our sister institution, Hartwell Quest.

CURRICULUM

Below is a suggested 6-month curriculum for a Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) program. The program is structured with two days a week, three hours each day. The first three months cover a regular curriculum for all participants, and the last three months focus on special subjects.

Weeks 1-2: Introduction to the Program and Research Skills

  • Ice-breaking activities and team building
  • Program overview, expectations, and introductions
  • Overview of the PGCert structure, expectations, and resources.
  • Research methodologies and literature review techniques
  • Literature review, and proposal writing.
  • Library resources and academic writing skills
  • Academic Writing Skills
  • Effective communication, academic writing styles, and citation methods.

Weeks 3-6: Core Concepts in the Field

  • Foundational theories and concepts
  • Case studies and practical applications
  • Group discussions and critical analysis
  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
  • Developing analytical skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving strategies.
  • Introduction to Technology in Education
  • Overview of educational technology tools and their integration in teaching and learning.

Weeks 7-10: Data Analysis and Interpretation

  • Introduction to statistical analysis
  • Data visualization techniques
  • Interpretation of research findings
  • Pedagogical Theories
  • Overview of major educational theories and their practical applications.
  • Curriculum Design and Development
  • Principles of curriculum design, development, and assessment.
  • Classroom Management
  • Strategies for effective classroom management and student engagement.
  • Assessment and Evaluation
  • Different assessment methods and their alignment with learning objectives.
  • Inclusive Education
  • Understanding and implementing inclusive education practices.
  • Overview of Key Theories and Frameworks
  • Application of Theoretical Knowledge in Real-world Scenarios
  • Group Discussions and Case Studies

Weeks 11-12: Mid-term Assessments and Project Proposals

  • Quantitative Research Methods
  • Data Collection Techniques
  • Qualitative Research Methods
  • Developing a Research Proposal
  • Library and Online Research Skills
  • Educational Leadership
  • Basics of educational leadership, administration, and decision-making.
  • Technology Integration in Education
  • In-depth exploration of technology tools for education and instructional design.
  • Cross-Cultural Competence in Education
  • Strategies for promoting cultural competence in diverse educational settings.
  • Special Education
  • Introduction to special education needs and strategies for inclusive teaching.
  • Project Management in Education
  • Basics of project management and its application in educational projects.
  • Mid-term assessments and feedback
  • Project proposal development
  • Proposal presentations and feedback

Last Three Months: Special Subjects (Participant Choice)

Participants can choose one of the following tracks based on their interests:

Track 1: Advanced Teaching and Learning

In-depth study of innovative teaching methods, learning theories, and educational psychology.

Track 2: Educational Technology and Innovation

Advanced topics in educational technology, e-learning, and digital pedagogy.

Track 3: Leadership and Administration in Education

Advanced leadership skills, educational policy analysis, and organizational development.

Track 4: Special Education and Inclusion

Advanced study of special education practices, inclusive teaching, and assistive technology.

Track 5: Research and Thesis Writing

Guided research and thesis writing under the supervision of a mentor.

Each track includes a mix of seminars, workshops, and project work tailored to the chosen subject. The last month can be dedicated to finalizing projects, presentations, and assessments.

Weeks 13-16: Specialization I

Participants choose one of the special subjects based on their interests:

  • Introduction to Specialization Tracks
  • Career Pathways and Opportunities in Each Specialization
  • Assessing Personal Interests and Goals
  • In-depth lectures on the chosen subject
  • Workshops and hands-on exercises
  • Group projects related to the specialization
  • Guest Lectures from Industry Experts
  • Panel Discussions on Specialization Tracks
  • Initial Assignments Based on Chosen Specialization

Weeks 17-18: Interdisciplinary Applications

  • Integration of different specializations
  • Guest lectures from industry experts
  • Group projects that require collaboration between specializations
  • Specialization-specific Core Concepts
  • Practical Applications and Case Studies

Weeks 19-20: Capstone Project and Final Presentations

  • Work on individual capstone projects
  • Finalize projects and prepare presentations
  • Capstone project presentations and assessments
  • Hands-on Workshops and Simulations
  • Group Projects and Collaborative Learning

Week 21-22: Mentorship and Presentation

  • Capstone Project Kick-off
  • Regular Mentorship Sessions
  • Progress Updates and Peer Feedback
  • Finalizing Capstone Projects
  • Presentation Skills and Rehearsals

Week 23: Revision and Review.

  • Review of the entire program
  • Q&A session and clarification of doubts
  • Final preparations for assessments

Week 24: Final Assessments and Graduation

  • Final assessments and evaluations
  • Graduation ceremony and networking event
  • Closing remarks and feedback collection

“Education without values, as useful as it is, seems rather to make man a more clever devil.” — C.S. Lewis (1898-1963)

Clive Staples Lewis 1951 Photo