Master of Specialist Teaching
MSpecTchg
Duration
6–12 months full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 or 2 (February or July)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Download Brochure
Duration
6–12 months full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 or 2 (February or July)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Download Brochure
Overview
The Specialist Teaching programme is relevant for educators working with children and learners who have special educational needs in early childhood, primary, and secondary sectors.
The programme is coursework-based, meaning it is ideal for educators who aim to provide professional leadership in their area of expertise but who do not wish to undertake a thesis. The Master of Specialist Teaching (MSpecTchg) employs a mix of distance and blended learning delivery options that provide flexibility for all students, regardless of location.
The degree can be awarded unendorsed, or endorsed in one of four areas. Graduates will gain a comprehensive understanding of their selected specialism, and will have the expertise, knowledge, interdisciplinary networks, and strategies to provide innovative approaches to meet children’s and learners’ special education needs in their workplace.
To enrol in the Master of Specialist Teaching you must have previously completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Specialist Teaching with at least a B Grade Point Average, and approval to enrol from Amo Matua, Ako | Executive Dean of Education.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Specialist Teaching or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at myUC. Find out more about how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
The MSpecTchg consists of two 30-point courses, which can be completed by distance study.
You can study this Master's in 6–12 months full-time.
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Specialist Teaching.
The degree can be awarded unendorsed, or endorsed in one of four areas:
- Complex Educational Needs
- Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- Early Intervention
- Learning and Behaviour.
Choose one of the following:
- EDEM637 Distributing Leadership Through Coaching and Mentoring
- EDEM638 Teachers as Leaders
- EDEM669 Leading and Managing Decision-Making in Organisations
Plus 30 points of courses selected from these options.
Postgraduate study can bring many career benefits, such as specialist skills and enhanced knowledge, entry into specific occupations, higher starting salary/progression rates, research capability/achievement, and evidence of high academic attainment/self-discipline.
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.
See Tuition Fee Structure for more information
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2024 | 180 | Fee estimate. Actual fee will be determined by course selection. | $12,270 |
| 2023 | 180 | Fee estimate. Actual fee will be determined by course selection. | $11,941 |
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2024 | 180 | Special (Set) Programme Fee | $53,100 |
| 2024 | 60 | $17,700 | |
| 2023 | 180 | Special (Set) Programme Fee | $51,000 |
| 2023 | 60 | $17,000 |
Contact us
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Specialist Teaching.
Te Kaupeka Ako | Faculty of Education
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Phone +64 3 369 3333
Email educationadvice@canterbury.ac.nz