Program Overview

Introduction to the Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood)

The Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) is a challenging and satisfying career path where individuals can make a difference in young children's lives. Through guided play, children can gain the skills they need for healthy intellectual, emotional, and physical development.

What Will My Study Involve?

• The chance to teach infants, toddlers, and young children in this key developmental phase of life.
• Multiple placements in early childhood and community centres throughout studies to gain real teaching experience.
• Flexible study options on campus in Ōtautahi Christchurch, or by distance.
• Learning about Te Whāriki, the Early Childhood curriculum, to prepare for the teaching profession.

Entry Requirements

Students wishing to enrol in the GradDipTchLn(EC) must have a relevant bachelor's degree or higher (or be entitled to enrol for the Diploma with other qualifications of an equivalent standard). Selection for entry is not automatic and is based on academic ability, involvement and interest in working with children and young people, community involvement, communication skills, and other personal qualities. The selection process includes a police check and may include an interview. If English is not the first language, students are also required to meet UC's Teaching language requirements.

Degree Structure

The Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) is a 1-year full-time programme. Students can study the Diploma either on campus or via distance. Distance students study their programme off campus and attend an on-site intensive (OSI) at the beginning of each semester. Students will also attend professional practice placements in early childhood centres throughout the programme.

Subjects and Courses

The GradDipTchLn(EC) is made up of the following compulsory courses:

• TEPI361 Becoming a Professional Teacher
• TEPI362 Being a Professional Teacher
• TEPP361 Professional Practice 1
• TEPP362 Professional Practice 2
• TECE358 Curriculum Design
• TECE359 Te Reo me ngā Tikanga Māori
• TECE361 Holistic Development, Learning and Culture
• TECE362 Curriculum and Pedagogy for Infants and Toddlers
• TECE364 Pedagogy of Play
• TECE365 The Intentional Teacher

Fees

Domestic Students

2025 tuition fee estimate: $8,942 (150 points)
2026 tuition fee estimate: $9,477 (150 points)

International Students

2025 Special Programme Fee: $33,000 (150 points)
2026 Special Programme Fee: $34,625 (150 points)
2027 Special Programme Fee: $36,625 (150 points)

Further Study

There are a range of professional development programmes available for practising teachers at UC — see the list of postgraduate diplomas and master's qualifications available.

Careers

Graduates meet Matatū Aotearoa | Teaching Council of New Zealand graduating teachers' standards requirements and are eligible to apply for registration as a teacher in Aotearoa. Graduates gain transferable skills in management, communication, coordination, responsibility, and organisation. Graduates have gone on to owning and operating their own early childhood businesses and work in various roles within early childhood care and government agencies.