The programme comprises the inter-related strands of education studies, professional studies, and professional placement, but also offers a wide range of flexibility so that progress through the course is largely self-directed; years 1 and 2 of the course are foundation years in which the student studies common, compulsory modules in education studies and professional studies; there is also a study skills module which the student undertakes; the student studies all areas of learning of the Northern Ireland Curriculum; from year 2 the student is given the opportunity to choose from a range of specialist modules; this element of choice is increased in years 3 and 4; this flexibility aims to give the student an opportunity to specialise in a particular chosen area, eg to take academic subject options or to specialise in the area of special educational needs, 14-16 occupational studies or essential skills; areas of interest can be developed in years 3 and 4 through student choice options; by the end of the course it is envisaged that graduates enter the teaching profession having acquired the knowledge, skills and values associated with the best practitioners within the profession.