The Graduate Diploma in Second Language Teaching (GDipSLT) grounds second language teachers in the knowledge and theories of Linguistics. It can be completed in two semesters of full-time, or its equivalent in part-time, study. Although not a formal teaching qualification, it is nationally and internationally recognised as a complementary professional programme of study. It is designed for four groups of students: language teachers in schools and colleges; registered teachers who plan to work overseas; international teachers of English as a second language; and tertiary education staff who teach a foreign language.
Applicants must hold a degree or teaching qualification, or have appropriate teaching experience. They will be enrolled in individually tailored programmes of undergraduate and postgraduate coursework in Education and Linguistics. One of the required papers develops teaching skills through presentations to class members.
Graduates may find employment in New Zealand and abroad as language tutors, or in schools, colleges, private institutions and universities.
Programme details
Regulations for the Graduate Diploma in Second Language Teaching (GDipSLT)
Nature of the Graduate Diploma
The Graduate Diploma in Second Language Teaching is an academically focused programme of study, designed for graduates and others with equivalent qualifications and experience, who do not have a prior knowledge of Linguistics and/or Language Teaching as an academic discipline but who wish to have a good grounding in Second/Foreign Language Teaching with a view to obtaining a nationally and internationally recognised named diploma. The diploma is intended for those who have not majored in Linguistics, English and Linguistics, or Languages and Linguistics at Otago or at other New Zealand universities.
Admission to the Programme
Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Humanities) on the advice of the GDipSLT Admissions Committee.
Every applicant must either be a graduate, or have obtained a teaching qualification and be able to present evidence of appropriate teaching experience acceptable to the GDipSLT Admissions Committee.
Structure of the Programme
The programme of study for the graduate diploma shall consist of approved papers, from the schedule, to a value of no less than 120 points with at least 72 points at 300-level or above.
Duration of the Programme
The duration of the programme is one academic year of full-time study or its equivalent in part-time study.
Level of Award of the Diploma
The diploma may be awarded with distinction or with credit.
Variations
The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Humanities) may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.
This information must be read subject to the statement on our Copyright & Disclaimer page.
Regulations on this page are taken from the 2025 Calendar and supplementary material.
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