The University of Auckland (Waipapa Taumata Rau) is New Zealand’s leading university, ranked among the top universities globally and particularly recognised for its Education programmes. It draws students from 100+ countries, offering strong academic support, multicultural experiences, and world?class facilities in Auckland, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city.

 

Why Study Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary)

This one?year postgraduate qualification prepares you to become a provisionally?certificated secondary school teacher for students typically aged 13–18. Upon completion, you meet requirements for initial teacher certification in New?Zealand (through the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New?Zealand), equipping you with both theory and practical skills to teach a specialist subject in secondary schools.

Key reasons to choose this qualification:

• Earn an internationally recognised qualification from a top?ranked university with strong educational reputation.

• Practical teaching training embedded with professional school placements across the year.

• Option to study face?to?face on campus or online (with an orientation block course in January).

• Opportunity to build strong professional networks and prepare for teaching employment.

• Eligible for external scholarships such as TeachNZ supporting teacher education.

 

Subjects / Programme Structure

The programme combines theoretical courses with practical placements across the year (approximately 15 weeks of full?block practica plus ongoing school experiences), helping you develop effective teaching practice and subject expertise.

Core Courses (examples)

• EDPROFST 613: The Adolescent Learner – principles of teenage learning.

• EDUC 603: Education After Society – education theory and context.

• EDPROFST 614: The Inquiring Professional – reflective practitioner development.

• EDCURSEC 691: Teaching Subject Specialism – focused on your chosen subject area.

• EDCURSEC 692: Design for Learning – curriculum design across subjects.

• EDPRAC 612: Professional Practice: Secondary – practical school experience.

• EDPROFM 600: Te Ao M?ori – cultural perspectives in education.

• EDUCM 199 & EDUCSW 199: Te Reo M?ori + English Language Competency courses (0 points).

Teaching Subjects Offered

You select a specialist teaching subject typically based on your prior study. Subjects may include:

• English, Mathematics & Statistics, Science (Biology, Physics, Chemistry)

• Social Sciences (History, Geography, Psychology)

• Arts & Media Studies

• ESOL (English as a Second Language)

• Digital Technologies, Business Studies, Accounting

• Te Reo M?ori me ?na tikanga and more.

 

Disciplines / Specialisations

Students specialise in a teaching subject area relevant to the NZ secondary school curriculum, such as:

• English or ESOL

• Mathematics & Statistics

• Sciences (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics)

• Social Sciences

• Visual & Performing Arts

• Business & Economics

• Technologies & Digital Learning

• Languages & Te Reo M?ori.

 

Highlights of the Programme

• Developed and taught by experts in teacher education with strong links to NZ secondary schools.

• Combines theoretical knowledge of education with hands?on professional practice.

• Emphasis on Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles and inclusive, equitable education.

• Practical career preparation with careers events, mock interviews, and networking opportunities.

• Internationally recognised qualification with global relevance.

 

Career Outcomes

Completing this diploma qualifies you to work as a provisionally?certificated secondary school teacher in New?Zealand and is recognised internationally. Careers may include:

• Secondary school teacher in your specialist subject

• Education consultant or curriculum developer

• Learning designer or instructional coordinator

• Education policy adviser

• School guidance or special education roles

• Further postgraduate study (e.g., Master of Education).

 

Visa Requirements (International Students)

To study in NZ you must obtain a New?Zealand Student Visa before arrival. Requirements typically include:

• A confirmed offer of place
• Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses
• Health and travel insurance
• Evidence of full?time enrolment

 

Latest Updates & Important Notes

• The Graduate Diploma programmes begin in January (Semester One), with applications closing typically on 1?December of the previous year.

• An initial block?to?campus orientation is a key component of the secondary teaching programme.

• Police and safety checks, as well as literacy/numeracy tests, are part of admissions.

• Online study options exist but virtual placements may require negotiation with the faculty and host schools.