Frequently asked questions - updated 05/07/11
The Diploma to Degree upgrade programme will be offered in 2012 to graduates of the Te Tari Puna Ora o Aotearoa/NZ Childcare Association ECE teacher education Diploma programmes.
Priority is being given to students who graduated from the 2011 cohort. Any unfilled places will be offered to other graduates from September. Applications close 18 November.
Q - Will the upgrade programme be considered a full-time course for the purpose of student loans and scholarships?
A - The upgrade will be a part-time course. Students will have access to student loans. Scholarships will not be available.
Q - How long will it take to complete the upgrade programme?
A - The programme will consist of three 20 credit papers. It will take one year to complete as a part-time course.
Q - When does the programme start and end?
The orientation session and the first tutorial will be held in February. The last paper finishes in November. Specific dates for tutorials in different regions will be advised later in the year.
Q - Will there be an option to complete the course over a longer period of time?
A - Yes, students can take up to two years to complete. In one of these years, students will need to enrol in two papers.
Q - Will students' teaching be assessed?
A - There will be no teaching assessments, as students in the programme already hold a recognised level seven teaching qualification.
Q - Will students on the upgrade programme need access to an early childhood service?
A - Yes, students will need access to an early childhood service to undertake some assessment tasks in the upgrade programme. There are no restrictions on the type of service.
Q - What will the papers cover?
A - Two papers are ECE research focussed and will prepare students for post-graduate study. The third paper is specific to infants and toddlers. Information follows -
| Paper code | Credits | Paper name | 2012 dates |
| Upgrade paper A (UPGA) | 20 | Te hā o ao kōhungahunga: Infants and toddlers | 12 April - 21 Sept |
| Upgrade paper B (UPGB) | 20 | Te hā o te ao māramatanga: Teacher as researcher | 13 Feb - 22 June |
| Upgrade paper C (UPGC) | 20 | Te hā o te māramatanga: Teacher as curriculum inquirer | 23 July - 30 Nov |
Q - Will the programme be taught face-to-face, or will there be distance and online options?
A - The course will be delivered through a mix of face-to-face tutorials and online support. Each paper will incorporate online assessment through the use of a web-based e-learning site. Students will need internet access. Students will need to attend a monthly full-day tutorial, a total of 10 tutorials per year, plus an orientation session.
To register your interest in the upgrade programme contact our Applications Coordinator.
