QUALIFICATION
Graduate Diploma (NZQA Level 7, 120 credits)
Duration
1 year
Location
Auckland
Fees
NZD 35,500
Entry Score
IELTS: Academic 7.0
Next Intake
February & July
Programme Overview
The Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary) (Level 7) at NZSE addresses the critical demand for qualified STEM educators across New Zealand. Grounded in Te Mātaiaho (The New Zealand Curriculum), the program prepares graduates to teach STEM subjects up to Year 13. It integrates inclusive frameworks for neurodiverse learners and bicultural pedagogy with practical classroom teaching.
Note: Graduates are eligible to apply for Provisional Teacher Registration with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Programme Structure & Core Formats
The 120-credit program spans two intensive semesters combining coursework with in-school clinical placement:
- Semester One (60 Credits - 17 Teaching Weeks + 2-Week Break):
- GDTS7001: Learning and Teaching Principles and Practices (15 credits)
- GDTS7002: Curriculum, Pedagogy, and Assessment in STEM Education (15 credits)
- GDTS7003: Professional Practice 1: Foundations of Professional Teaching Practice (30 credits)
- Semester Two (60 Credits - 17 Teaching Weeks + 2-Week Break):
- GDTS7004: Creating an Inclusive Learning Environment (15 credits)
- GDTS7005: Assessment for Learning: Strategies & Practices in Secondary Education (15 credits)
- GDTS7006: Professional Practice 2: Advanced Teaching Practice & Inquiry (30 credits)
What You'll Study
The curriculum bridges subject-specific STEM pedagogy with professional school practice:
- STEM Pedagogy & Curriculum: Translation of core science, technology, engineering, and mathematics discipline knowledge into engaging classroom learning aligned with Te Mātaiaho.
- Inclusive & Bicultural Practice: Strategies for supporting neurodiverse students, embedding tikanga and te reo Māori, and building whānau-centered relationships.
- Assessment & Feedback: Formative and summative assessment practices to measure learning progress across Years 7–13.
- School-Based Work Experience: Extended in-school placements working alongside mentor teachers to build direct classroom management and instructional expertise.
Why Choose This Programme?
- Teacher Registration: Prepares graduates for Provisional Teacher Registration with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.
- High-Demand Specialisation: Addresses critical national shortages in secondary school STEM subject areas.
- Practical Experience: Extensive work-integrated placement built directly into secondary school environments.
Career Pathways
| Sector | Roles |
|---|---|
| Secondary Education | Secondary STEM Teacher (Years 7–13), Science / Math / Tech Educator |
| Education & Leadership | Subject Department Head, Curriculum Specialist, Learning Support Coordinator |
| Community & Public Institutions | Educational Program Designer, Museum/Science Center Educator |
Entry Requirements & Compliance Checks
- Academic Minimums: Bachelor's degree (Level 7 or higher) in a STEM field.
- Language Requirement: Academic IELTS 7.0 in every individual band (or Teaching Council approved equivalent).
- Vetting & Safety: Visual interview, literacy/numeracy evaluation, two referee reports, and Children Act 2014 police vetting.
