Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning

Graduate Diploma

The Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (PGDipTchgLn) combines research-informed knowledge and critical inquiry with practice-based experiences in schools to prepare you for a career in teaching.

Key details

Degree Type

Graduate Diploma

Duration

1 year full-time

Course Code

PGDipTchgLn

Domestic Fees

$9,952 per year / $9,952 total

International Fees

$36,000 per year / $36,000 total

About this course

The Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (PGDipTchgLn) combines research-informed knowledge and critical inquiry with practice-based experiences in schools to prepare you for a career in teaching. Teaching is a positive and varied career for people who are energetic, creative, enjoy working with people, and who are committed to making a positive difference for children and youth.

You will have the opportunity to gain knowledge of teaching, learners and curriculum, engage in professional practice in schools, and become part of the teaching profession in Aotearoa New Zealand. Also, you will hone skills such as communication, critical thinking, planning and design for learning, and develop bicultural competence and culturally responsive practice so that you go on to become an attentive and adaptable educator who meets the needs and aspirations of all learners.

The Postgraduate Diploma is endorsed in either Primary or Secondary Education. Both endorsements are internationally recognised professional qualifications, leading to teaching opportunities globally. You will meet Matatu Aotearoa | Teaching Council of New Zealand teaching standards and will be eligible to apply for registration and certification with the Teaching Council as a school teacher.

Entry requirements

Applicants for the PGDipTchgLn programme will need an Aotearoa New Zealand bachelor's degree with a B Grade Point Average in their 300-level courses (or other qualifications of an equivalent standard). Those entering the Secondary Education endorsement will need previous studies in a subject relevant to the Aotearoa New Zealand secondary school curriculum eg, te reo Maori, English, biological sciences, mathematics, history, physical education, etc.

You will be approved for entry on the recommendation of a Selection Committee. Selection for entry is based on:

academic ability, involvement and interest in working with children and young people, community involvement, communication skills, and other personal qualities as outlined in the Guide to Applying
a police check, referees' reports, and an interview
a short literacy and numeracy test.

If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet the requirements set out by Matatu Aotearoa | Teaching Council of New Zealand.

For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning or use the admission requirements checker.

How to apply

Applications are open throughout the year and close 1 December for domestic students or 31 October for international students.

For more details on entry requirements and the teacher education application process, see the Guide to Applying.

Study locations

Main Campus

Career pathways

This Diploma is an internationally recognised professional qualification which can lead to teaching opportunities globally.
Better support the diverse needs of students, and work with family, whanau, iwi, communities, and other education and health professionals.
Teaching is an excellent background for a wide range of jobs outside of the classroom including, public sector, human services, publishing, policy, advocacy, youth and social work, and more.
Graduates will meet Matatu Aotearoa | Teaching Council of New Zealand teaching standards and are eligible to apply for registration and certification with the Teaching Council as a primary or secondary school teacher.

Useful information:

Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student and graduate profiles.
Te Ropu Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pokai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
Find out more about what you can do with a degree from UC.
Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.

University of Canterbury