Master of Higher Education

• Overview
• Contact Details
• Subject Area
• Programme Requirements
• Regulations for the Degree of Master of Higher Education (MHEd)

Overview

The Master of Higher Education (MHEd) degree comprises four advanced-level taught papers and a research dissertation. Graduates of the Master in Higher Education will have a thorough and rigorous understanding of the discipline of higher education. This will include advanced knowledge in leadership, policy analysis, teaching, learning and research. The programme is designed to act as a means of enhancing the knowledge and skills of those seeking or wishing to enhance their career in Higher Education or as a foundation for entry to a PhD programme.

The Master of Higher Education can be awarded with an endorsement in Educational Technology where students undertake study in the specialist area of educational technology within each of the four papers and the research project.

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Contact details

Email [email protected]
Website Higher Education Development Centre

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Subject area

• Higher Education

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Regulations for the Degree of Master of Higher Education (MHEd)

1. Admission to the Programme

   1. Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Convener of the Interdivisional Board of Studies in Higher Education.
   2. Every applicant must
      1. be a graduate with an average grade of at least B+ in the 300-level requirements for the degree; or
      2. hold a postgraduate qualification at an equivalent standard; or
      3. have alternative qualifications or experience acceptable to the  Interdivisional Board of Studies; and
      4. normally be a tertiary teacher

2. Structure of the Programme

   The programme of study shall consist of

   • HEDU 501 Critical Reflection on Higher Education (30 points);
   • HEDU 502 Learning Theory and Practice in Higher Education (30 points);
   • HEDU 503 Research in Higher Education (30 points);
   • HEDU 504 Academic Leadership in Higher Education (30 points);
   • HEDU 590 Research Dissertation (60 points).

     Note: HEDU 501-504, 590 are also available through Distance learning.

   Where the degree is endorsed in Educational Technology, students will undertake study in the specialist area of educational technology within each paper and the research project.

3. Exemptions

   A candidate who has completed the requirements for the Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education may be exempted from HEDU 501, 502 and 503.

4. Duration of the Programme

   A candidate shall normally follow a full-time programme of study of not less than 12 months.

5. Assessment of Research Project

   1. The research project will be assessed by at least two department examiners other than the student’s supervisor.
   2. Each examiner shall supply a written report on the research project and recommend the result of ‘Fail’, ‘Pass’, ‘Pass with Credit or ‘Pass with Distinction’ on the basis of the project submitted.
   3. If a candidate does not pass the Research project, the papers passed may be credited towards a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education.

6. Level of Award of Degree

   The Master of Higher Education may be awarded with distinction or credit.

7. Endorsements

   The Master of Higher Education may be endorsed in Educational Technology.

8. Variations

   The Convener of the Interdivisional Board of Studies in 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 1 December of the year preceding that 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.

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Entrance requirements for postgraduate study vary by programme with most requiring a minimum bachelor-level qualification in the same field, and some having additional requirements such as relevant work experience and/or professional registration in New Zealand. 

A postgraduate certificate or postgraduate diploma can usually be taken at any time after the completion of your bachelor's degree.

If you hold an honours degree or postgraduate diploma you may be able to eligible for master’s study by thesis only. In some cases if you hold a bachelor’s degree you may apply for a coursework master’s degree or for master’s study by coursework and thesis.

To study a PhD you usually require the completion of a master’s degree, or a first-class or upper second-class honours degree in the same area of study, or a related discipline, as your intended area of research.

Check the postgraduate students pages for specific information on the entrance requirements of the programme you are interested in.

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• Step 1 – Select your course or programme
• Step 2 –  Check entry requirements and deadlines
• Step 3 – Apply online
• Step 4 – Submit your application
  
• Step 5 – Accept your Offer of Place