social sciences

Postgraduate Certificate

Postgraduate Certificate PGCert
social sciences

Postgraduate certificates and diplomas provide the opportunity for continuing professional development in the same area as an original degree.

60 points, 0.5 year

Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)

Why study the Postgraduate Certificate?

Postgraduate certificates are ideal for graduates who want to upskill, specialise in a new area, or gain a recognised qualification without committing to a longer programme. These short, focused programmes typically take six months of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) and are designed to build on knowledge from an earlier degree. In many cases, relevant professional, practical, or scholarly experience is also considered for entry.

At the University of Waikato, we offer a wide range of postgraduate certificates across different fields. Some are available only on a part-time basis, making them a flexible option for those already working. Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise in your current field or pivot to a new career, a postgraduate certificate can help you take the next step.

We offer both general postgraduate certificates and specialist options tailored to particular professions or sectors. In many cases, successful completion of a postgraduate certificate can also serve as a pathway to a postgraduate diploma or a master's degree, enabling you to continue your studies if you choose.

60 points, 0.5 year

Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)

Degree information

Plan your study Subjects Fees and scholarships

Regulations

The Postgraduate Certificate comprises a minimum of 60 points at 500 level or above in one of the Postgraduate Certificate subjects listed below. Normally it involves one trimester of full-time study (or more extended part-time study).

Postgraduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching and Learning

PGCert(TertiaryT&L) - a postgraduate certificate especially for tertiary education staff.

The Postgraduate Certificate in Tertiary Teaching and Learning is a recognised qualification for staff working in tertiary education contexts who wish to extend their understanding of tertiary learning and teaching, improve their own practice and facilitate positive change in student learning.

The certificate requires you to compete four 15-point papers. All papers are electives and you have the option of taking all four papers online.

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