Program Overview

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Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching – GradDipLnTchg

The Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching is an initial teacher education pathway offered by Massey University. This qualification is designed for individuals who are keen to become kaiako/teachers in early childhood settings, primary, or secondary schools.

Overview

The Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching embodies a new vision for the future of teacher education. Students will gain from robust, specialized curriculum and teaching knowledge that is critical for graduates preparing to enter different types of teaching environments. The qualification represents Massey University’s commitment to becoming a Tiriti-led university.

Type of Qualification

• Graduate diploma
• Level of study: Graduate study (NZQF level 7)
• Time to complete: 1 year full-time (150 credits), part-time available
• International students: Open to international students on campus in New Zealand

Key Dates

• Admission application due dates
• Course enrolment dates for accepted students
• Semester dates

Study a Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching – GradDipLnTchg

Be Part of an Innovative Qualification

The Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching offers a new vision for teacher education, focusing on robust, specialized curriculum and teaching knowledge. Students will work with nationally and internationally esteemed practitioners and researchers in a highly supportive environment.

Learn from the Best

Students will learn from the best in a teaching and learning environment that enables them to contribute positively to their students and society. The qualification includes regular contact with the teaching team and mentors, supporting students in their professional and personal journey to becoming a teacher in Aotearoa.

Gain Professional Experience

In addition to regular coursework, students will spend 16 weeks in specialization-relevant education settings, developing and refining their professional skills alongside supportive associate teachers and mentors. Students will engage with tamariki, educators, and whānau in a professional setting, taking on increasing elements of the teaching role in preparation for entry into the profession.

Further Study

Massey offers a range of further exciting study options in education, such as specialist teaching, educational leadership, counseling, and psychology.

A GradDipLnTchg is a Good Fit if You:

• Already have a bachelor’s qualification
• Want to be a high-quality and effective teacher
• Value the diversity of heritage, language, identity, and culture of all learners, families, and whānau

Entry Requirements

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

Specific Requirements

This is a selected entry qualification, requiring students to meet additional criteria, including:

• Been awarded or qualified for a bachelor's degree of at least 360 credits, or equivalent
• Demonstrated competence in literacy and numeracy as set down by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand and the Institute of Education
• Achieved an Academic IELTS score of at least 7.0 with no band less than 7.0 or approved equivalent within the preceding 2 years
• Met the requirements for registration as set down by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand, in terms of values, disposition, and fitness to teach

Documents Required

• Copies of all official academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University
• A copy of your current curriculum vitae
• A supporting statement
• A consent to disclosure of information for a New Zealand Police check
• A copy of a police report from every overseas country you have lived in for more than 12 months in the last 10 years
• A health and disability declaration
• Evidence of English language competency as outlined by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand

Selection Process

The selection process involves assessment of application documents by academic staff within the Institute of Education, followed by an interview with a selection panel. The selection process focuses on the following criteria:

• Commitment to the Teaching Profession
• Commitment to Learners
• Commitment to Families and Whānau
• Commitment to Society

Structure of the Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching

The qualification is a practice-based learning program, with blended learning and a focus on demonstration and application of teaching performance. The program includes:

• Core courses (30 credits)
• Specialization courses (120 credits)
• A total of 150 credits

Courses and Specializations

• Core courses:
  • Learning and Teaching 1 (15 credits)
  • Learning and Teaching 2 (15 credits)
• Specializations:
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Primary
  • Secondary

Fees and Scholarships

• 2026 tuition fees:
  • Domestic students: $6,838
  • International students: $34,220
• Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme available
• Scholarship and award opportunities available

Careers and Job Opportunities

Graduates of the Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching will be eligible to apply for teacher registration and provisional certification with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand. As a provisionally certificated teacher, you will be qualified to teach in one of the following settings: New Zealand kindergartens and early childhood; primary; or secondary schools. A career in teaching can open many other doors in education, making it a great starting point.