Master of Education
- Degree Structure - Start In
- February, July, or November
Examine practice and critical issues in education at master’s level.
180
The Master of Education (MEd) allows a pathway for current teachers, educational professionals, counsellors, and leaders to gain a master's level qualification examining practice and critical issues in education.
The MEd is an ideal qualification for those who have already undertaken some postgraduate study to achieve teaching and leadership in their educational setting.
Those interested in a research-focused programme of study may consider the Master of Education (Thesis).
Please note that in New Zealand a Master of Education is not a pathway to teacher registration. If you wish to study to become a registered teacher, check out our Teacher Education qualifications.
To gain entry into a Master of Education in New Zealand you will need to have a bachelor's degree (or an equivalent degree) with a major in Education or a related subject with a B grade average; or have any Aotearoa New Zealand university degree and a professional teaching qualification.
If English is not your first language, you are also required to meet UC's Postgraduate language requirements. See how to provide your English language evidence to UC. If you need help meeting these requirements, or would like to practise your English skills before studying, UC offers English for Academic Purposes (EAP) language programmes.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Education or use the admission requirements checker.
You can apply online at myUC.
See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.
The Master of Education is made up of 180 points, which includes coursework in either a subject endorsement or can be unendorsed.
The degree takes 18 months full-time, or up to 4 years part-time.
You can begin studies in February, July, or November.
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Education.
Choose between completing elective coursework or, with approval from the Programme Coordinator, a research dissertation.
For the coursework pathway, complete the following:
At least 45 points of your chosen courses must be at 600-level.
For the dissertation pathway, complete the following:
2025 tuition fee estimate: $13,013 (180 points) ($8,675 per 120 points)
2026 tuition fee estimate: $13,794 (180 points) ($9,196 per 120 points)
2025 Special Programme Fee: $55,200 (180 points)
2026 Special Programme Fee: $57,300 (180 points)
2027 Special Programme Fee: $60,300 (180 points)
Completing a MEd at UC will help you gain further insight into your educational practice, and develop skills in new and emerging theories of education, which could lead to new opportunities in leadership or research in the field.