Munster Technological University offers the Higher Diploma in Physical Education Studies. The programme is designed for current secondary school teachers who want to add PE to their subject portfolio and for graduates of cognate degree programmes who want to progress towards a PE teacher qualification. Students study the PE curriculum required by the Irish Teaching Council and the pedagogical practices associated with physical education.
The Higher Diploma is a part-time programme delivered using a blended learning approach. It is delivered partly online and on MTU’s North Campus in Tralee on certain weekends. The programme spans four semesters and includes theoretical and practical competence in curricular physical education. It covers teaching, learning, and assessment techniques.
The NFQ Level 8 programme awards successful students with 60 ECTS credits of Physical Education-related content and pedagogical foundation. Qualified secondary school teachers can add PE to their list of recognised subjects with the Teaching Council, and graduates may meet the teaching council criteria for Physical Education and be eligible to apply for a Professional Master of Education (PME).
