Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

This master’s programme combines advanced coursework with school-focused inquiry and an option for a substantial applied project or research paper. Core themes include curriculum design, assessment for learning, inclusive and culturally responsive pedagogy, leadership and professional inquiry, and the use of digital technologies to support teaching and learning.

• Curriculum and Pedagogy: study contemporary curriculum theory, curriculum design and implementation across diverse learning settings.
• Assessment and Evidence-informed Practice: topics cover formative and summative assessment, data use to inform teaching, and feedback strategies that support learner progress.
• Inclusive and Culturally Responsive Teaching: learning to adapt pedagogy for diverse learners, with specific attention to Māori and Pasifika perspectives and bicultural practice in Aotearoa New Zealand.
• Professional Inquiry and Leadership: sustained inquiry into classroom practice, leading professional learning, curriculum leadership and change management.
• Digital and Blended Learning: integrating educational technologies, online pedagogy and digital literacies into teaching design.
• Research or Applied Project: a capstone research paper or applied project that investigates a professional issue in depth and links directly to school practice.

Delivery is typically flexible, with a mix of face-to-face seminars and online learning to accommodate practising teachers. Study pathways may allow for different balances of coursework and research depending on professional goals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree and to have qualified teacher status or equivalent professional teaching experience. Candidates with substantial relevant classroom experience but without a formal teaching qualification may be considered on a case-by-case basis and may need to provide a portfolio of practice and references from current employers.

Admission usually requires a statement of purpose outlining professional goals, and academic referees. International applicants must meet the university’s English language requirements. Specific entry pathways, credit for prior learning or recognition of professional experience may be available—prospective students should consult AUT admissions for personalised advice.

Career prospects

Graduates enhance career options within primary, intermediate and secondary education as well as in specialist or leadership roles. Typical career outcomes include:

• Senior or middle leadership positions (curriculum leader, deputy principal)
• Curriculum developer or assessment specialist for schools, boards of trustees or education ministries
• Professional learning facilitator or consultant working with schools and regional education providers
• Specialist teacher roles (e.g. literacy, numeracy, e-learning) and positions in inclusive education
• Pathway to further study such as doctoral research and roles in teacher education at university level

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT offers a practitioner-focused programme that draws on research-active staff and strong partnerships with schools across the Auckland region. The university emphasises kaupapa Māori and Pacific perspectives within its programmes, ensuring relevance to Aotearoa New Zealand classrooms. Flexible delivery is designed for working teachers, with opportunities for workplace-based inquiry, applied projects and close supervision from experienced educators. AUT’s focus on innovation in learning and access to contemporary facilities and digital resources supports teachers to translate advanced study directly into improved classroom practice.