Teaching
Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (BTchLn)
Learning Mode
On Campus or Distance (with in-person placements)
Duration
3 Years (Full Time) or Part-Time Equivalent
Start date
February
Qualification
Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (BTchLn)
Fees
NZ$7,691 per year (Domestic)
NZ$34,000 per year (International)
Location
Christchurch Campus or Online (New Zealand only)
About the Course
The Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (BTchLn) at the University of Canterbury is a professionally accredited qualification that prepares you to teach in early childhood or primary education. Whether you’re drawn to shaping young minds or leading in diverse learning environments, this degree provides a robust foundation in educational theory, curriculum, and classroom practice.
Available on-campus or online (for domestic students), this flexible, supportive, and practice-focused programme will have you working in real classrooms from your first year, learning directly from experienced educators and mentors.
Why choose Teaching at Canterbury?
Industry Connected
Gain over 100 days’ placement experience through strong partnerships with schools and early childhood centres nationwide.
Global Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for teaching roles worldwide, including international schools and diverse cultural education settings.
Professional Accreditation
Accredited by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand, qualifying graduates for professional teacher registration.
Course Overview
The Bachelor of Teaching and Learning is grounded in the values of inclusive practice, te ao Māori, and reflective teaching. You will develop the skills and knowledge needed to teach confidently, understand children’s development, and support equitable learning.
Students can choose one of two pathways:
- Early Childhood Education (0–6 years)
- Primary Education (Years 1–8)
You’ll explore curriculum design, classroom behaviour, assessment strategies, and cultural responsiveness, while developing as a leader and advocate for tamariki and whānau.
Course Duration
- 3 Years (Full Time) or Part-Time Study (up to 6 years)
- Each year combines coursework with 6–8 weeks of in-school or centre-based placement
- Online students attend in-person intensives and undertake placements near their home location (NZ only)
Course Curriculum
Year 1:
- Introduction to Teaching
- The Aotearoa New Zealand Curriculum or Te Whāriki
- Child and Adolescent Development
- Te Reo Māori and Tikanga
- First Professional Practice Placement
Year 2:
- Culturally Responsive Pedagogy
- Literacy and Numeracy in the Classroom
- Inclusive Education and Learning Needs
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi in Practice
Year 3:
- Curriculum Integration and Assessment
- Classroom Leadership
- Teaching as Inquiry
- Capstone Research Project
- Extended Professional Practice (Final Placement)
Admission Requirements
- University Entrance (NCEA Level 3 or equivalent)
- Successful application including:
- Referees
- Interview
- Police vetting
- Health declaration
International Students:
- Equivalent secondary qualification
- English Proficiency:
- IELTS 7.0 overall (no band below 7.0), as required by the Teaching Council
Fees and Funding
Domestic Students:
- Approx. NZ$7,691 per year (2024)
International Students:
- Approx. NZ$34,000 per year
Scholarships and Support:
- TeachNZ Scholarships (including for Māori, Pacific, STEM)
- University of Canterbury School of Teacher Education Scholarships
- Māori and Pasifika support services
- Student loans and allowances (domestic)
Career Opportunities
Graduates are eligible for provisional registration and can work as:
- Early Childhood Teachers
- Primary School Teachers
- Learning Support Coordinators
- Teacher Aides and Education Advisors
- International Educators
- Pathway to postgraduate study in education, counselling, or leadership
Canterbury-trained teachers are respected for their classroom readiness, cultural competence, and commitment to inclusive, evidence-based practice.
Contact Us
Reach out for any inquiries or assistance needed.
