Undergraduate to Teacher Pathway
Turn Your Existing Qualification into Qualified Teacher Status
To secure your place or learn more about the admissions process, please contact the University of Northampton directly:
Top-Up Degree Cost: £5,860
Awards a BA (Hons) Top-Up Degree
Flexible Online Study
Progress to Teacher Training
Continue your journey to QTS
& observation
Progress to Teacher Training
Continue your journey to QTS
Thinking about becoming a qualified teacher?
If you're looking to take the next step in your education career, our Undergraduate to Teacher Pathway can help you progress from a Level 5 qualification to a full Bachelor's degree and on towards Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Whether you're a Specialist Teaching Assistant, Early Years practitioner, or education support professional, this flexible route provides a clear pathway to becoming a qualified teacher while continuing to work and study around your existing commitments.
What degree will I achieve?
You will study the BA (Hons) Early Years, Childhood and Family Studies with the University of Northampton.
The course is designed to build on your existing Level 5 knowledge and provide a recognised honours degree that can support progression into teacher training and other education-based careers.
How is the degree delivered?
The programme is designed to fit around your professional and personal commitments.
You'll benefit from:
- Fully online delivery
- Evening teaching sessions
- No campus attendance required
- Flexible learning around work and family life
- The option to complete the course over one or two years
What will I study?
The course explores early years, childhood and family life through research-informed practice and contemporary debate.
You'll:
- Develop your understanding of children, families and communities
- Explore current issues within education and early years
- Investigate topics relevant to your own professional interests
- Build critical thinking and research skills
There are no formal examinations. Assessment is through assignments, presentations and written work.
How much does the degree cost?
The cost of the BA (Hons) Top-Up Degree is:
£5,860
If you're based in England, you may be eligible for a Tuition Fee Loan through Student Finance England.
What happens after I complete my degree?
Once you've successfully completed the degree, you'll be able to apply for our teacher training programmes leading to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
Depending on your circumstances, this could include:
- Postgraduate Teacher Apprenticeship
- Fee-Funded Initial Teacher Training
Our team can advise on the most appropriate progression route for you.
Why choose this pathway?
This pathway allows you to:
✅ Build on an existing Level 5 qualification
✅ Gain a full honours degree
✅ Study flexibly while working
✅ Progress towards a teaching career
✅ Access a clear route to Qualified Teacher Status
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