Course details

Summary

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 programs 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.

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.

Papers

• LING 111 Language and Its Structure
• LING 231 Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
• LING 331 Advanced Topic in TESOL

At least four additional Linguistics papers, of which one may be replaced with an EDUC paper, to make a total of at least 120 points with at least 72 points at 300-level or above.

Note: LING 111 or its equivalent, if already passed, may be replaced by either LING 214 or LING 215.

Entry criteria

• 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.

English Language Requirements: IELTS - Score of 6.5 in the academic module (with no individual band below 6.0); Internet-based TOEFL Score of 95 with a minimum writing score of 22.; Paper-based TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 587 (TWE 4.5); Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) – Overall score of 176 (with no individual band below 169); Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) – Overall score of 176 (with no individual band below 169); APIEL Advanced Placement International English Language Examination - Grade 4 or higher; Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic - Overall score of 64 with no communicative skills score below 57; University of Otago Foundation Studies Ltd: Completion of 'English for Postgraduate Academic Purposes' with a grade of C or higher.