Teaching
Bachelor of Teaching (BTchg)
Learning Mode
On Campus (with school-based placements)
Duration
3 Years (Full Time)
Start date
February
Qualification
Bachelor of Teaching (BTchg)
Fees
NZ$7,411 per year (Domestic)
NZ$31,056 per year (International)
Location
Dunedin Campus (with placements throughout Aotearoa New Zealand)
About the Course
The Bachelor of Teaching (BTchg) at the University of Otago prepares students to become inspiring, thoughtful, and responsive educators. Grounded in values of equity, biculturalism, and research-informed practice, this three-year undergraduate degree is ideal for individuals passionate about working with children and young people in diverse learning environments.
Whether you choose to specialise in Primary or Early Childhood Education, you will graduate with strong professional competencies, practical experience, and eligibility to register as a teacher in New Zealand.
Why choose Teaching at Otago?
Industry Connected
Strong school and centre partnerships provide 100+ placement days, developing teaching skills and classroom confidence.
Global Opportunities
Internationally recognised programme offers qualifications transferable to numerous global education systems and career opportunities.
Professional Accreditation
Teaching Council of Aotearoa accreditation enables graduates to gain provisional teacher registration in New Zealand.
Course Overview
The Bachelor of Teaching develops core teaching knowledge and practical experience. You’ll study educational theory, curriculum, and pedagogy while participating in extended placements in partner schools or early childhood centres.
Two streams are available:
- Primary Education (Years 1–8)
- Early Childhood Education (Birth to 6 years)
Both pathways integrate cultural responsiveness, digital learning, inclusive education, and te ao Māori perspectives throughout the curriculum.
Course Duration
- 3 Years (Full Time)
Each year includes coursework and extended professional practice (in schools or early childhood centres).
Placements are spread across multiple weeks each year, culminating in a sustained practicum in your final year.
Course Curriculum
Year 1:
- Introduction to Teaching and Learning
- Curriculum & Pedagogy (Early Childhood or Primary)
- Education and Society
- Bicultural Education in Aotearoa
- Observation and Participation Placement
Year 2:
- Curriculum Inquiry and Practice
- Literacy and Numeracy Teaching
- Inclusive Education and Diverse Learners
- Te Reo Māori and Tikanga
- Practicum (Professional Practice Placement)
Year 3:
- Leadership in Learning
- Teaching for Social Justice
- Professional Inquiry
- Capstone Teaching Placement
- Integration of Curriculum and Pedagogy
Admission Requirements
- Academic Entry:
- University Entrance or equivalent qualification
- Demonstrated suitability for teaching
- Non-Academic Requirements:
- Interview and referee reports
- Police vetting
- Literacy and numeracy competency tests
International Students:
- Must meet academic equivalency
- English Proficiency:
- IELTS 7.0 (no band below 7.0) required for Teaching Council approval
Fees and Funding
Domestic Students:
- NZ$7,411 per year (subject to change)
International Students:
- NZ$31,056 per year
Scholarships and Support:
- TeachNZ Scholarships (targeted for Māori, Pacific, STEM subjects)
- Otago First-Year and Undergraduate Scholarships
- Māori and Pacific financial support
- Student loans and allowances available for eligible domestic students
Career Opportunities
Graduates can apply for registration as provisionally certified teachers and find employment in:
- Primary Schools (BTchg Primary)
- Early Childhood Centres (BTchg Early Childhood)
- Special Education or Learning Support Roles
- Education Policy and Community Education Projects
- Further study in educational leadership or postgraduate teaching
The qualification is widely respected across international teaching systems.
Contact Us
Reach out for any inquiries or assistance needed.
