PGDip Teaching Deaf Learners (QTOD)

Entry requirements

The normal entry requirements for the programme are:

• Continuing enhanced DBS clearance as specified within the DBS policy.
• Two references including one from current employer.
• Signed letter from current employer in support for employee as a postgraduate student by providing mentor, study leave and funding as appropriate.
• An undergraduate UK degree or other qualification at equivalent level.
• An alternative qualification may be considered for entry, subject to postgraduate programme admissions team approval.
• IELTS: Applicants whose graduate study or relevant experience was undertaken in languages other than English, will need to demonstrate English language proficiency to the level of an IELTS score of at least 6.5 (minimum of 5.5 in each component).

Extra Entry Requirements – Teacher of Deaf Children and Young People

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS).
• Teachers with international teaching or other qualifications without QTS or QTLS, may apply for the programme, but cannot be awarded the PGDip Deaf Education (Teacher of Deaf Children and Young People).
• Usually Employment history as an educational practitioner working with deaf children or young people. (For those not currently working with pupils who are deaf, individual arrangements will need to be made to provide opportunities for further teaching experience with such pupils).

Apprenticeship applicants (which includes the PGDip) prepare enrolment forms together with their employer.

Course description

The postgraduate diploma Teaching Deaf Learners (QTOD) is awarded by Liverpool John Moores University and is recognised as leading to the mandatory qualification for Teachers of the Deaf. The course is approved by the DfE. This qualification enables candidates to work with children and young people who are deaf from 0 - 25 years of age. Students who continue beyond this post graduate diploma award to successfully complete a dissertation qualify for an MA in Teaching Deaf Learners QTOD (subject to validation).  The programme length is 22 months. 

Modules

Year 1 (2025-26 is our first year with new partner LJMU)

Module 1: Language Development and the Impact of Deafness 
Module 2: Introduction to Audiology 
Module 3: Teaching Deaf Learners in Practice 
Module 4: Developing Audiological Understanding 

Year 2 

Module 5: Holistic Development and the Impact of Deafness
Module 6: Policy and Practice 
Module 7: Language Assessment & Facilitation
Module 8: Evidencing Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the programme, one certificate will be issued by LJMU.  Upon successful completion of the programme, a graduation ceremony will be arranged by Mary Hare.