BEd vs PGCE: Which Teaching Qualification is Right for You?

South Africa’s education sector continues to face growing demand for professionally trained, competent teachers. Whether in public or private schools, the need for educators who are equipped to meet curriculum standards and learner needs is steadily increasing. For individuals considering a career in teaching, selecting the appropriate qualification is an important step. Two widely recognised pathways available are the Bachelor of Education (BEd) and the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). Each serves a different academic profile, but both prepare candidates for teaching roles in South Africa.

In this article, we will examine BEd vs PGCE options in detail, including eligibility, duration, qualification type, and more, to help prospective teachers determine which qualification aligns best with their goals.

What’s the Difference Between BEd and PGCE?

The BEd vs PGCE question is one many aspiring teachers in South Africa encounter when deciding on the right path to enter the profession. Both are nationally recognised teaching qualifications that meet the academic and professional standards required by the South African Council for Educators (SACE), and both are aligned with NQF Level 7.

However, the Bachelor of Education (BEd) is an undergraduate teaching degree that typically takes four years to complete. It is designed for school leavers or individuals who have not yet obtained a tertiary qualification. It combines subject knowledge with pedagogical training and practical teaching experience, making it ideal for those beginning their academic journey.

In contrast, when comparing BEd vs PGCE, the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is a teaching programme that can be completed only after a bachelor’s degree. This 1-year qualification is suitable for individuals who already hold a relevant bachelor’s degree and wish to gain a teaching qualification. The PGCE builds on existing subject expertise by providing training in teaching methodology and classroom practice.

What Is a Bachelor of Education (BEd)?

When we compare BEd vs PGCE, the Bachelor of Education (BEd) is an NQF Level 7 undergraduate teaching degree that prepares individuals to become professionally qualified teachers in South Africa. It is specifically designed for school leavers or individuals who have not yet obtained a higher education qualification and are committed to building a long-term career in education.

The programme helps students develop strong subject knowledge, practical classroom experience, and a solid understanding of teaching methodology. The BEd programme is structured to align with the needs of learners across different phases of the school system, allowing students to specialise in one of the following education bands:

• Foundation Phase: Grades R–3
• Intermediate Phase: Grades 4–6
• Senior Phase: Grades 7-9
• Further Education and Training (FET) Phase: Grades 10–12

At the Regenesys School of Education, we offer a Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training. The programme is designed to equip future teachers with the subject competency, practical experience, and professional confidence required to teach learners from Grades 7 to 12.

The Regenesys qualification integrates academic coursework with Work Integrated Learning and focuses on areas such as Education Studies and Classroom Management. Students also receive training in digital literacy and educational technology, supporting their ability to adapt to modern classroom environments.

To be eligible for admission to the Regenesys Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training, candidates must meet the following requirements :

• Matric with Bachelor’s pass or NQF level 4 equivalent qualification
• Or a relevant NQF Level 5 or 6 qualification from an accredited institution as per SAQA requirements
• Competent in Mathematics, English, written and oral communication skills at NQF Level 4.
• Basic computer skills, internet connection and an appropriate IT device

Read more on What is a Bachelor of Education (BEd)? Scope, Eligibility, Duration & Career Opportunities

What Is a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)?

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is a professional teaching qualification designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree. This is one major difference when exploring the BEd vs PGCE landscape in South Africa.

This qualification is typically recognised by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and offers an alternative pathway into the teaching profession for graduates.

The PGCE builds on the subject knowledge gained during a student’s undergraduate studies and introduces pedagogical theory, curriculum studies, and practical teaching methodologies. It also includes a school-based teaching practicum, which enables students to apply their learning in real classroom environments.

To qualify for admission into a PGCE programme, prospective students must meet the following criteria. This can differ depending on the institute.

• Hold a completed bachelor’s degree (NQF Level 7 or NQF Level 8) from a recognised institution
• Have completed major subjects that are aligned with the school curriculum (e.g. Mathematics, Languages, Life Sciences)
• Relevant work experience

This qualification is ideal for career changers, subject specialists, or those who decide to enter the teaching profession after completing their initial academic degree. Individuals often pursue the PGCE route to transition into teaching more quickly, especially in high-demand subjects such as Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Technology.

To summarise, if you’re wondering, “Should I study BEd or PGCE in South Africa?”, the PGCE is suited for those who already possess a degree and want to gain a teaching qualification without undertaking an entirely new undergraduate programme. While it is more intensive in duration, it provides a focused and efficient path into the classroom.

Teaching Qualification Comparison: BEd vs PGCE

For many prospective educators, understanding the difference between BEd and PGCE for teaching jobs is crucial when planning their academic and professional journey. Both qualifications are recognised teaching credentials in South Africa, but they serve different purposes depending on your prior education and career goals.

The table below helps to understand the BEd vs PGCE landscape better:

Career Path for Teachers: Where Can You Go From Here?

When comparing BEd vs PGCE, several differences are evident in terms of eligibility, curriculum, duration, and other aspects. However, one of the major similarities is that both provide an entry into the teaching profession.

The difference between BEd and PGCE for teaching jobs lies primarily in the entry route, but both qualifications ultimately offer access to the same professional landscape. Additionally, both qualifications require graduates to be registered with the South African Council for Educators (SACE) in order to be legally qualified to teach under the CAPS curriculum.

Graduates of the Regenesys Bachelor of Education programme can explore the role of a Senior Secondary Teacher after they have registered with SACE. The average annual salary for this position in South Africa is R315,700 as of June 2025, according to World Salaries.

However, with experience and further training or postgraduate study, graduates can explore senior positions, such as:

• Grade Head, Head of Department (HOD), or Deputy Principal within a school management team
• Principal or School Administrator with leadership responsibilities
• Curriculum Developer or Instructional Designer supporting educational content and planning
• Education Policy Advisor contributing to policy formulation at the district or national level
• Educational Researcher in academic or government institutions
• E-learning and EdTech Consultant, working at the intersection of education and technology

Read more on How to Become a Teacher in South Africa: Step-by-Step Guide

Should I Study BEd or PGCE in South Africa?

Deciding between a Bachelor of Education (BEd) and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) depends mainly on your current academic qualifications and long-term career goals. Both are recognised pathways to becoming a professional teacher in South Africa and enable registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE), allowing you to teach under the CAPS curriculum in both public and private schools.

The points below can help aspiring teachers understand the BEd vs PGCE landscape to choose the appropriate qualification:

The Bachelor of Education may be the right choice if:

• You have recently completed Matric and hold a National Senior Certificate with a Bachelor’s Pass
• You are looking for a structured, four-year undergraduate teaching degree
• You want to gain structured training, including theoretical knowledge, pedagogy, and practical teaching experience from the start of your academic career

The PGCE may be the right choice if:

• You already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field relevant to school subjects
• You are seeking a teaching programme after graduation that can be completed in one year
• You are a career changer or subject specialist aiming to transition into the education sector efficiently

Whether you pursue a BEd or PGCE in South Africa, both qualifications prepare you for a professional teaching role and contribute to addressing the national demand for skilled teachers. 

Read more on Why a Bachelor of Education (BEd) is the Best Career Choice in South Africa?

Conclusion

South Africa’s need for well-trained, qualified teachers is growing across all phases of the schooling system. As learners face diverse challenges in both academic performance and social development, there is a strong demand for educators who can meet curriculum expectations and deliver impactful teaching. 

Aspiring teachers can explore the BEd vs PGCE landscape to determine the most suitable path for them to gain entry into the teaching profession. Regenesys School of Education offers an accredited Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training, which helps future teachers with the subject mastery, classroom experience, and digital skills needed in modern education. 

Visit the Regenesys website to learn more about our Bachelor of Education programme and enrol for the upcoming intake.

BEd vs PGCE: Which Teaching Qualification is Right for You? – FAQ