Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood)

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

For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) or use the admission requirements checker.

Vaccines required

The government has announced new vaccination requirements for the health and education sectors. This qualification requires students to undertake placements in the community, including in schools/kura, early childhood centres, or health/medical facilities.

For this qualification, you will be required to be vaccinated in line with the NZ Government regulations, and supply evidence of your vaccination status.

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.

Find out more about how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.

The Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) is a 1 year full-time programme.

While the programme is conducted flexibly on campus or by distance, students are required to attend two on-campus intensives during the year.

Students also attend professional practice placements in early childhood centres throughout their programme.

For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood).

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 for Infants and Toddlers
• TECE364 Pedagogy of Play
• TECE365 The Intentional Teacher

Successful completion of this Graduate Diploma meets Matatū Aotearoa | Teaching Council of New Zealand graduating teachers’ standards requirements. Upon successful completion, graduates may apply to the Teaching Council for provisional registration which enables them to apply for teaching positions in Aotearoa.

This programme is designed to meet the requirements of Aotearoa settings. Applicants should contact the relevant authorities for international requirements.

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 Rōpū 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 Pōkai 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.