Are you passionate about shaping young minds, teaching future leaders, or making a difference in your community? A qualification in Education (BEd or PGCE) prepares you for a fulfilling career as a teacher in schools across South Africa. Whether you want to teach young learners in the foundation phase or specialize in senior subjects like Science or Languages, South Africa’s Universities of Technology offer well-rounded teacher education programmes.
Here’s your 2026 guide to the best institutions offering Bachelor of Education (BEd) and Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE):
1. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) – Western Cape
Faculty: Education
Programmes Offered:
- Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching
- Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching
- Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase & FET Teaching
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
Why Choose CPUT?
CPUT offers a full spectrum of teacher training, from early childhood to senior secondary levels. The PGCE is ideal for graduates looking to transition into teaching. Programmes include school-based practicals and strong focus on inclusive education and technology integration.
2. Central University of Technology (CUT) – Free State
Faculty: Humanities
Programmes Offered:
- Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching
- Bachelor of Education in Computer Science (SP & FET)
- Bachelor of Education in Language Education (SP & FET)
Why Choose CUT?
CUT focuses on producing skilled teachers in STEM, languages, and foundational literacy. Their BEd degrees include real classroom experience, giving students confidence and competence by graduation.
3. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Gauteng
Faculty: Humanities – Department of Education
Programmes Offered:
- Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching
- Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching
- Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase & FET Teaching (Various Specializations)
Why Choose TUT?
TUT offers one of the broadest education programmes among universities of technology, including specializations in Mathematics, Science, Languages, and Technology subjects. The university has strong ties to public schools for teaching practice placements.
4. Vaal University of Technology (VUT) – Gauteng
Faculty: Human Sciences – Education
Programme Offered:
- Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase & FET Teaching
Why Choose VUT?
VUT’s programme is designed for students who want to teach Grades 7 to 12 in high-demand subjects such as Business Studies, Life Sciences, and Physical Sciences. The degree includes pedagogy, subject mastery, and school-based teaching.
Core Subjects You’ll Study in BEd and PGCE:
- Curriculum & Teaching Strategies
- Inclusive Education
- Educational Psychology
- Subject-Specific Methodologies (e.g., Mathematics, Languages, Sciences)
- Assessment & Classroom Management
- ICT in Education
Career Opportunities in Education:
- Foundation Phase Teacher (Grades R–3)
- Intermediate Phase Teacher (Grades 4–6)
- Senior & FET Phase Teacher (Grades 7–12)
- Subject Specialist
- Learning Support Practitioner
- Curriculum Developer
- School Leadership & Administration (with further study)
Conclusion:
Teaching is a noble and impactful profession. Whether you’re just starting your journey or transitioning from another career path via a PGCE, these top South African Universities of Technology offer accredited programmes to prepare you for the classroom.