The Postgraduate Diploma in Education is designed for professionals who want to deepen their understanding of education systems, policy, leadership, research, and contemporary educational practices.

Key reasons to choose this programme include:

• Advanced study in contemporary education issues
• Strong focus on educational research and critical thinking
• Pathway to a Master of Education
• Flexible study options (full-time or part-time)
• Relevant for professionals across different educational sectors
• Exposure to M?ori, Pacific, and multicultural educational perspectives
• Practical and research-based learning approach

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students complete:

• 1 compulsory course
• 3 elective courses

Total: 120 points

Compulsory Course

• EDUC808 – Aims and Conceptions of Education

Elective Courses

Students choose three from subjects such as:

• Global Influences on Education Policy in Aotearoa New Zealand
• Educational Leadership
• Educational Research
• Contemporary Issues in Education
• Digital Pedagogies and Technology in Education
• Learning Environments for the 21st Century
• M?ori Educational Approaches
• Pacific Education Perspectives
• Individual Directed Study

Disciplines and Specialisation Areas

The programme supports expertise in areas including:

• Educational Leadership
• Education Policy
• Digital Education
• M?ori and Pacific Education
• Research and Evaluation
• Contemporary Education Issues
• Learning Environment Design
• Adult and Tertiary Education

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work in areas such as:

• Educational leadership
• Education policy development
• Curriculum development
• Adult and tertiary education
• Educational consultancy
• Education research
• Learning support services
• Community and non-formal education sectors

The qualification is suitable for professionals working in:

• Early childhood education
• Schools
• Higher education
• Government agencies
• NGOs
• Corporate training environments

Highlights of the Programme

Key Features

• One-year Level 8 postgraduate qualification
• Strong research-informed curriculum
• Flexible elective choices
• Multicultural and inclusive educational perspectives
• Pathway into Master of Education
• Industry-connected AUT learning environment
• Focus on contemporary educational challenges

Latest Updates and Important Notes

Important Programme Clarification

This qualification:

• Does NOT provide teacher registration eligibility in New Zealand
• Is intended for advanced academic and professional education study

Students seeking teacher registration should instead consider:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning
• Master of Teaching and Learning

Visa Requirements for International Students

International students generally require:

• A valid New Zealand student visa
• Confirmation of enrolment from AUT
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Medical/travel insurance
• English language evidence
• Genuine temporary entrant documentation

Students should also prepare:

• Academic transcripts
• Passport
• Financial statements
• Visa application documents

Student-Friendly Summary

The Postgraduate Diploma in Education at AUT is an excellent option for graduates and education professionals who want advanced knowledge in education policy, leadership, research, and contemporary educational practice. The programme is academically strong, flexible, internationally recognised, and provides a direct pathway into higher-level postgraduate study such as the Master of Education.

It is particularly suitable for:

• Teachers seeking career advancement
• Education administrators
• Policy professionals
• Curriculum specialists
• Researchers
• International students wanting a globally respected New Zealand qualification in education