University of Auckland

What you'll study

The MEd comprises a mix of coursework and a substantial research project or thesis, allowing you to combine advanced theoretical study with applied investigation. You can tailor your study through specialisations and elective papers in areas such as:

• Curriculum and pedagogy – contemporary curriculum theory, assessment for learning, and design of learning experiences across sectors.
• Educational leadership and policy – leadership theory, strategic school improvement, change management and educational policy analysis.
• Inclusive education and special needs – inclusive practice, differentiated instruction and systems to support learners with diverse needs.
• TESOL and language education – second language acquisition, classroom approaches for multilingual learners and language assessment.
• Māori, Pasifika and indigenous education – Kaupapa Māori approaches, indigenous perspectives on teaching and curriculum, and community-responsive practices.
• Educational psychology and assessment – learning theories, psychological perspectives on learning, and assessment design and interpretation.

Programme structure commonly includes advanced-level papers (courses) plus a 60-point research dissertation or a combination of smaller research projects and coursework papers. You will develop research skills including literature review, qualitative and/or quantitative methods, ethical research practice and research communication. Delivery is flexible with options for full-time or part-time enrolment and some papers available by distance learning.

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires a good bachelor’s degree with honours or an equivalent postgraduate qualification in education or a closely related discipline. Applicants who do not have a specialised education qualification but have substantial professional experience in education may be considered, often with conditions such as completing specified prerequisite papers.

Specific pathways or papers (for example those leading to initial teacher registration or advanced leadership awards) may require current teacher registration or recent professional experience in an educational setting. All applicants should submit an academic transcript, a personal statement outlining study and research goals, and referees familiar with their academic or professional work. International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MEd go on to a broad range of roles across the education sector and related fields. Common career destinations include:

• Senior and middle leadership roles in early childhood centres, schools and kura (e.g. deputy principal, curriculum leader).
• Policy, advisory and development roles in local or national education agencies and non-government organisations.
• Curriculum developer, assessment specialist or learning designer for education providers and commercial learning organisations.
• Specialist roles in inclusive education, special needs support, or bilingual and TESOL provision.
• Educational research roles, and progression to doctoral study and academic careers in tertiary institutions.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland’s Faculty of Education and Social Work combines strong research expertise with longstanding partnerships across New Zealand schools and communities, offering rich opportunities for applied research and professional networking. The programme emphasises bicultural and multicultural perspectives, including dedicated provision for Māori and Pasifika educational approaches. Students benefit from experienced academic supervisors, access to research centres and a range of professional-development links with schools, policy bodies and community organisations. Flexible study options make the MEd suitable for practising educators who wish to balance work and study while advancing their career or research aspirations.