Please note that HEDC has currently paused enrolments to all our postgraduate programmes for 2025–2026.
Overview
The Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCertHighE) is a qualification for those who teach tertiary students in universities and polytechnics. It is a part-time programme consisting of two 30 point papers that can be completed in a minimum of one year and a maximum of three. Students can continue and complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education (PGDipHighE).
The Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCertHighE) is also available through Distance Learning.
If this is the qualification for you, get started with your application today.
Programme details
Regulations for the Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCertHighE)
Admission to the Programme
Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Convener of the Interdivisional Board of Studies in Higher Education.
Every applicant must
be a graduate and, normally, be engaged in tertiary teaching; or
if enrolling for a programme for an endorsed certificate, be a graduate and, normally, be engaged in clinical teaching at tertiary level; or
have alternative qualifications or experience acceptable to the Board of Studies.
Structure of the Programme
The programme of study shall consist of
HEDU 501 Critical Reflection on Higher Education (30 points); and
HEDU 502 Learning Theory and Practice in Higher Education (30 points).
Where the postgraduate certificate is endorsed either in Clinical Education or Educational Technology, students will undertake study in the selected specialist area within each paper.
Notes: (i) HEDU 501 and 502 may be taken in any order. (ii) HEDU 501 and HEDU 502 are also available through Distance Learning.
Duration of the Programme
The programme is "self paced" and students may negotiate the duration of study for each paper within the following:
A candidate shall normally follow a part-time programme of study of not less than one academic year.
A candidate shall satisfy the requirements for the certificate within three years of admission to the programme.
Endorsements
The postgraduate certificate may be endorsed in either Clinical Education or Educational Technology.
Variations
The Convener of the Interdivisional Board of Higher Education may in exceptional circumstances approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.
Notes: 1. The due date for applications for enrolment in the programme is 31 January of the year in which the programme is to be commenced. Late applications may be accepted. 2. Study towards the programme will commence on the third week in February.
Explore more in Higher Education
Learn where this subject can take you and discover the full range of study options, from undergraduate programmes to postgraduate pathways.
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.
World-class research
The University of Otago has a global reputation for research excellence. Our expertise is vast across health, society, culture, sustainability and the environment.
