Postgraduate Study in Higher Education
The study of higher education is concerned primarily with critical inquiry into, and the reflective application of best practice in teaching and learning in the tertiary sector.
As a field of knowledge, higher education crosses the boundaries of other knowledge areas that are taught at tertiary level. The study of higher education is concerned primarily with critical inquiry into, and the reflective application of best practice in teaching and learning in the various knowledge areas.
It includes research into the nature of universities and other tertiary institutions and the way in which academic work within these institutions is constructed. Higher education also encompasses the development of professional competence, leadership and management in the tertiary sector.
Choose a study option
Whether you are advancing your career with our specialised graduate qualifications or pursuing in-depth research and expertise through our postgraduate programmes, Otago is here to support your aspirations.
Postgraduate qualifications
Honours, Master’s, PhDs, and other advanced degrees for graduates. Just one additional year of study will earn you a valuable postgraduate degree. Or perhaps you want the depth of a full year of research-only time during a Master’s or to step up to a PhD.
Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCertHighE)
A two-year, part-time programme, consisting of four papers, which can be taken by distance or on campus
Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education (PGDipHighE)
A two-year part-time programme which builds on the Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education, also available through distance learning
Master of Higher Education (MHEd)
Advance your higher education teaching career through advanced coursework and a research dissertation, in one year's full-time study or equivalent part-time.
Ready to apply?
Take your expertise to the next level with advanced study.
Programme details
Compare programmes for this subject.
Papers
View a list of all related papers below.
Contacts
Higher Education Development Centre
Email hedc@otago.ac.nz
Web otago.ac.nz/hedc/study
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.
Explore our research