| College of Education |  |
International Prospectus (PDF, 947 KB)
Application Form
(PDF, 197 KB)
Study in New Zealand provides a realistic option for Canadian, UK, and Ireland students to enter a teacher education programme. Our courses are internationally recognised and your employment opportunities will be enhanced with a University of Canterbury qualification. Students also have good opportunities to remain and work in New Zealand.
There is currently significant demand for teachers in New Zealand Secondary schools. As the University of Canterbury trains teachers for the New Zealand market, we encourage all graduates to seriously consider job opportunities in New Zealand in order to meet this demand. Applications indicating this intention will be treated preferentially.
Secondary teaching graduates spend one year training, followed by two years teaching with provisional registration at which time you can be granted full registration to teach in New Zealand.
International Students who have studied in a country where English is not the first language spoken must perform to a satisfactory level in an approved English test as follows:
If you do not meet these English language requirements but meet the academic admission qualifications a conditional offer of place can be provided pending completion of further English study prior to the course commencing.
Once qualified as a teacher you can apply for provisional teacher registration. You may then teach in New Zealand and apply for positions in New Zealand schools directly. The starting salary for new teachers is approximately NZ$40,000 per annum. More information and application forms can be downloaded from the Teachers’ Council. You can find more information about the New Zealand education system at the Ministry of Education.
You must be 18 years of age or over to enrol as an international student at the College. Students from a wide range of countries enrol at the College. Requirements for countries not listed below can be found at International Students Entry Requirements.
Country |
Undergraduate Degree |
Graduate Programmes |
Canada |
Ontario: Grade 12 Secondary School Diploma (advanced level), with 6 Grade 12 U, U/C or M courses including Grade 12 U English. Students from other provinces should contact us. |
Degree from a recognised university. If studying the Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Secondary) two teachable subjects are required (see page 8 of the International Prospectus). |
Ireland |
A leaving certificate with passes in five subjects at C level or better in Higher level papers. |
Degree from a recognised university. If studying the Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Secondary) two teachable subjects are required (see page 8 of the International Prospectus). |
UK |
3 A levels at C or above. |
Degree from a recognised university. If studying the Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Secondary) two teachable subjects are required (see page 8 of the International Prospectus). |
Students from countries where English is not the language of instruction will also need an IELTS score of 7.0 or equivalent.
Tuition fees must be paid prior to obtaining an Offer of Place. Students undertaking a course of more than one year should be aware that fees may increase in subsequent years. Historically, this has been between 3% and 5%. More information on paying fees and recommended living expenses can be found in the College of Education International Prospectus.
Canadian Students from Ontario may be entitled to assistance through the Ontario Student Assistance Programme.
The University has 6 Halls of Residence all close to the campus. The preferred accommodation for College of Education students is at the Sonoda accommodation complex. Homestay, private houses and flats (apartments) are also available.
International Student Support is available, with people to advise and support you in all aspects of your study experience. Feel free to contact us at education@canterbury.ac.nz and we look forward to welcoming you.
Information specific to teacher education programmes and the College of Education can be found in the College of Education International Prospectus (PDF, 947 KB) or by emailing education@canterbury.ac.nz. More general information about studying in New Zealand can be found on the main International Students site or by phoning +64 3 364 2459.