Master of Education

We live in a world of rapid change, induced by recent global and local events and the unstoppable rise of digital technology and social media. Traditional, mainstream, one-size-fits-all approaches are no longer sufficient to work with children and their families with increasingly complex social and cultural backgrounds. Our Master of Education (Early Childhood) programme offers a range of courses that are designed and delivered by internationally recognised researchers and academics with advanced, multidisciplinary, and up-to-date knowledge of early childhood. Throughout the programme, students are supported in developing innovative and research-informed expertise to engage effectively with children, families and communities. Māori and Pacific concepts, values, and knowledges are integrated into course content, reflecting our unique place in the South Pacific. This masters programme provides a clear and coherent pathway for students to progress from postgraduate certification to a masters degree. Graduates with these qualifications will be equipped with multidisciplinary knowledge and expertise, critical thinking skills, and the ability to advocate for diverse communities and stakeholders. They will be sought after in different professional sectors and at world-ranked universities looking for promising doctoral candidates. This qualification is relevant to those working in a wide range of education areas. It provides the opportunity to review, inform and improve your knowledge and professional practice. You will develop knowledge, skills and experience in critiquing and undertaking educational research in your area of interest to enhance your practice. Through an independent inquiry under supervision from high-calibre experts within the faculty, you can contribute valuable knowledge and understanding to the field of education. This masters programme has both research and taught options with a 120-point and a 180-point option available. One in four people in Aotearoa have a disability. This diversity is now represented in local early childhood settings and schools and teachers are expected to have the conceptual, culturally responsive and applied knowledge base needed to teach in inclusive environments. You will develop advanced knowledge and capabilities in inclusive practices to support diverse learners in educational settings. You’ll also extend your research skills through an inquiry-based approach and gain the skills and knowledge needed to take leading roles in effective planning, coordination and management of projects and in professional learning.