Program Overview

Master of Specialist Teaching

The Master of Specialist Teaching (MSpecTchg) is a postgraduate degree that aims to further develop the skills of educators working with children and learners who have special educational needs. This programme is relevant for educators in early childhood, primary, and secondary sectors.

Introduction

The Specialist Teaching programme is coursework-based, making it ideal for educators who wish to provide professional leadership in their area of expertise without undertaking a thesis. The MSpecTchg employs a mix of distance and blended learning delivery options, providing flexibility for all students regardless of location.

Degree Structure

• The MSpecTchg consists of two 30-point courses that can be completed by distance study.
• The degree can be awarded unendorsed or endorsed in one of four areas: Complex Educational Needs, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Early Intervention, and Learning and Behaviour.
• Students choose one of the following courses: EDME637 Distributing Leadership Through Coaching and Mentoring, EDME638 Teachers as Leaders, or EDME669 Leading and Managing Decision-Making in Organisations.
• Plus, 30 points of courses selected from specified options.

Fees

Domestic Students

• 2025 tuition fee estimate: $8,675 per 120 points
• 2026 tuition fee estimate: $9,196 per 120 points

International Students

• 2025 tuition fee estimate: $55,200 (180 points), which is $36,800 per 120 points
• 2026 tuition fee estimate: $57,300 (180 points), which is $38,200 per 120 points
• 2027 tuition fee estimate: $60,300 (180 points), which is $40,200 per 120 points

Student Services Levy (SSL)

• 2025 SSL: $9.72 per point, which is $1,166.40 per 120 points
• 2026 SSL: $10.30 per point, which is $1,236.00 per 120 points

Career Opportunities

Postgraduate study can bring many career benefits, including specialist skills, enhanced knowledge, entry into specific occupations, higher starting salary/progression rates, research capability/achievement, and evidence of high academic attainment/self-discipline. Graduates of the MSpecTchg will gain a comprehensive understanding of their selected specialism and have the expertise, knowledge, interdisciplinary networks, and strategies to provide innovative approaches to meet children's and learners' special education needs in their workplace.

Duration

The Master of Specialist Teaching can be completed in 6–12 months full-time.

Points

The MSpecTchg is worth 180 points.

Note

The MSpecTchg is currently not open to new enrolments. Contact Te Kaupeka Ako | Faculty of Education for updates.