Understanding Metaphysical Poetry

What is this course?

Explore the profound world of metaphysical poetry with our comprehensive course. Covers the works of renowned poets like John Donne and Andrew Marvell, uncovering themes of love, spirituality, and existentialism. Gain a deep understanding of metaphysical conceits, imagery, and poetic techniques. Analyse classic poems to unravel their layers of meaning and explore their relevance in contemporary literature. If you are a literature enthusiast or a student seeking to expand your knowledge, this course offers valuable insights into the rich tradition of metaphysical poetry. Join us on a journey of intellectual discovery and appreciation for this timeless genre.

Who is this course for?

Teachers, trainers, assessors, teaching assistants and anyone working in education who wants focused professional development in teaching. There are no formal entry requirements.

Key facts

• Comprehensive course exploring metaphysical poetry and its themes.
• Covers works of renowned poets like John Donne and Andrew Marvell.
• Analyses poetic techniques such as metaphysical conceits and imagery.
• Provides insights into themes of love, spirituality, and existentialism.
• Offers contextual understanding of historical and philosophical influences.
• Includes close readings and analysis of selected poems.
• Ideal for literature enthusiasts, students, and aspiring writers.
• Enhances critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Relevant for careers in academia, publishing, and writing.
• Unlock the rich tradition and intellectual depth of metaphysical poetry.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements. The course is written in English; you need internet access and basic IT skills.

Duration and delivery

Standard study plan: 1 month; extended plan: 2 months.

At Education Training the course is delivered online: you receive the materials, assignment briefs and tutor support through the learning platform and submit work when you are ready. There are no fixed lecture times, so you can start in any month.

How you are assessed

You complete a short written task or reflective assignment at the end of the course, marked by a Education Training tutor. There are no exams. On successful completion you receive a certificate of completion from Education Training.

Career path and progression

Graduates of the "Understanding Metaphysical Poetry" course can pursue diverse career paths in fields such as academia, publishing, writing, and literary analysis. With a deep understanding of poetry and critical analysis skills, individuals can become literature professors, researchers, or educators, teaching courses on poetry and literary theory at universities and colleges. They can also work as editors or literary agents for publishing houses, specialising in poetry collections and anthologies. Additionally, graduates can pursue careers in writing and journalism, contributing articles, reviews, and essays on poetry for literary magazines, websites, and newspapers. Moreover, their expertise in understanding complex texts and interpreting symbolism can be valuable in roles such as content writing, copywriting, and editorial positions across various industries.

How this course compares

Figures below come from Education Training's own catalogue and enquiry records, not from estimates; each carries the date it was calculated.

Regulated qualifications offered by Education Training, by level (as of 14 November 2026)

Level 2: 1 qualification; Level 3: 7 qualifications; Level 4: 14 qualifications; Level 5: 12 qualifications; Level 6: 3 qualifications; Level 7: 4 qualifications (41 in total)

Shortest qualification at each level (by total qualification time) (as of 14 November 2026)

Level 2: Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner (370 TQT hours); Level 3: Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement (100 TQT hours); Level 4: Level 4 Award in Understanding the Principles and Practices of Internally Assuring the Quality of Assessment (60 TQT hours); Level 5: Level 5 Certificate in Observed Teaching Practice (TEFL) (110 TQT hours); Level 6: Level 6 Diploma in Global Teaching Practice (900 TQT hours); Level 7: Level 7 Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) (1200 TQT hours)

Credits and study hours by RQF level (as of 14 November 2026)

Level 2: median 37 credits, 370 TQT hours, 290 GLH; Level 3: median 18 credits, 180 TQT hours, 120 GLH; Level 4: median 33 credits, 330 TQT hours, 120 GLH; Level 5: median 120 credits, 1200 TQT hours, 375 GLH; Level 6: median 120 credits, 1200 TQT hours, 480 GLH; Level 7: median 120 credits, 1200 TQT hours, 600 GLH

Share of course-page views by RQF level (all time) (as of 14 November 2026)

Level 0: 0%; Level 2: 30%; Level 3: 4%; Level 4: 3%; Level 5: 9%; Level 6: 0%; Level 7: 42%

Fees and how to apply

Totals include the one-off £10 enrolment fee paid with the application. Fees include tuition, learning materials, assignment marking and the awarding-body certificate. Prices correct as of 23 October 2026.

Refund policy | Complaints procedure

What is included

Apply online, choose a payment option and start as soon as payment clears — there is no fixed intake date.

Where next

Short courses are a good preparation for a regulated qualification. Most learners progress to the Level 3 Award in Education and Training or an assessor award.