Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary)

If you already have a degree or equivalent qualification recognised by The University of Auckland you can qualify to teach in primary and intermediate schools after just one year of full-time study at graduate diploma level.

Teachers come from a wide range of backgrounds and offer their own unique perspective to teaching. By becoming a teacher you can play a vital role in the education of children, encourage their love of learning and share in their achievements.

Quick facts

Full-time: 1 year (part-time study options also available)
Taught at: Epsom Campus
Points per programme: 160 (intensive programme)

Highlights

• Strong emphasis placed on practical experience in classrooms
• Qualifies you for Q3+ (a higher salary level that recognises your previous qualification)
• Learn the latest teaching techniques and theories, and how to apply them in school and classroom settings.
   

What you'll be studying

This is an intensive programme equivalent to 1.3 years of full-time study completed within a 12-month period. During the course of your study you will:

• study educational theory and practice and explore how children learn, grow and develop
• learn how to teach the New Zealand primary curriculum and cover a variety of curriculum subjects
• undertake practical experience in primary classrooms and work alongside experienced teachers to develop your teaching practice.

View full list of courses

Choose your career

The Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary) has a strong reputation in the teaching community and graduates are in demand.

After just one year of successful study, you’ll be qualified to teach in primary and intermediate schools and be eligible to apply for provisional teacher registration.

Primary teachers with a degree in a secondary school curriculum subject eg, science, may be able to teach in secondary schools. It is also possible to apply for other secondary teaching positions eg, reading and language support.

How do you get in?

The academic prerequisite for the Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary) is an undergraduate degree or equivalent. Overseas qualifications will need to be assessed by the University for equivalence with New Zealand degree qualifications.

Personal references and an interview are part of the selection process. Contact the faculty for further information.

Interested in further study?

With a GradDipTchg you could go on to study an area of interest (eg, TESSOL) at graduate level or go on to postgraduate study. This can lead to study in education at masters and doctoral level.

Supplementary information

As part of the application and selection process, you need to supply us with supplementary information. Click on the link below to download a supplementary information form, complete it, and return it to the Faculty of Education as soon as possible.