Programme details

Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning

The Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning offered by UC integrates research-based knowledge and critical analysis with practical placements, equipping you for a professional career in education.

Course description

This qualification integrates research-based knowledge and critical analysis with practical experience in professional settings, equipping you for a career in education. You will have the chance to acquire insights into teaching methodologies, student engagement, and curriculum development, while actively participating in professional practice within schools, thereby becoming a member of the teaching community in Aotearoa New Zealand. You will develop essential skills such as effective communication, critical thinking, lesson planning, and culturally responsive pedagogy.

The Postgraduate Diploma offers endorsements in either Primary or Secondary Education, both of which are recognized internationally and open doors to teaching positions worldwide. You will align with the Matatū Aotearoa | Teaching Council of New Zealand’s teaching standards, making you eligible to apply for registration and certification as a school teacher.

Specialisations

Primary Education

Secondary Education

Occupational Registration

Certain occupations require registration by law in New Zealand. This programme leads to registration with New Zealand Teaching Council.

Immigration benefits

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

This course qualifies for 4 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

Career Prospects

This Diploma is recognized globally, which may facilitate teaching opportunities in various countries. Enhance your bicultural competence and culturally responsive practices to better support the diverse needs of students, while engaging with families, whānau, iwi, communities, and other education and health professionals.

A teaching background equips individuals for a broad spectrum of careers outside the classroom, including positions in the public sector, human services, publishing, policy development, advocacy, and youth and social work. Graduates will comply with the teaching standards established by Matatū Aotearoa | Teaching Council of New Zealand and will be eligible to seek registration and certification as teachers in primary or secondary education.

Entry requirements

Candidates applying for the programme must possess a bachelor’s degree from Aotearoa New Zealand, achieving a B Grade Point Average in their 300-level courses or hold qualifications of an equivalent standard.

Individuals pursuing the Secondary Education endorsement, prior studies in a subject pertinent to the Aotearoa New Zealand secondary school curriculum, such as te reo Māori, English, biological sciences, mathematics, history, or physical education, are required.

Applicants aiming for the Primary endorsement must provide evidence of their mathematical proficiency.

Entry approval will be granted based on the recommendation of a Selection Committee.

If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC’s English language requirements. University recognises the following English Language tests and courses:

International English Language Testing System Academic (IELTS Academic) – including online and One Skill Retake
Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test (TOEFL iBT) – including Home Edition and Paper Edition #
CCEL English for Academic Purposes Level 2 (EAP Level 2) – including online
Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)
Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE) – including online
New Zealand Certificate in English Language (NZCEL)
FluentIQ (*FluentIQ should be used where IELTS Indicator or TOEFL cannot be used)
LanguageCert
Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE)
Duolingo English Test (DET)