Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) Entry requirements

As an early childhood teacher you have the chance to teach infants, toddlers, and young children when they are most open to learning. The rapid rate of development in children of this age and their natural desire to learn makes for a hugely gratifying environment in which to work.



The BTchLn(EarlyChildhood) is an internationally recognised qualification that prepares you for a teaching career in different early childhood settings. The qualification is available to study full-time or part-time:

  • on campus in Ōtautahi Christchurch
  • by distance study.

Admission to UC with University Entrance (or equivalent) is required to enrol.

Students for whom English is an additional language are also required to meet the requirements set out by Matatū Aotearoa | Teaching Council of New Zealand.

For information on gaining admission to UC teacher education programmes, please see the Guide to Applying.

Selection process

The BTchLn(EarlyChildhood) has one intake each February. Selection for entry is based on:



  • academic ability, involvement and interest in working with children, community involvement, communication skills, and other personal qualities as outlined in the Guide to Applying
  • a police check, referees’ reports, and an interview
  • a short literacy and numeracy test.

How to apply

Applications are open throughout the year and close four weeks prior to the start of the programme in early February, or when places are filled.

For more details on entry requirements and the teacher education application process, see the Guide to Applying.

Contact us

For the full degree requirements, see the Regulations for the Bachelor of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood).

For study planning help, contact the UC Liaison Office | Te Rōpū Takawaenga o UC (new students) or a College of Education, Health and Human Development | Te Rāngai Ako me te Hauora Student Advisor (advancing students).

For more information on facilities, resources, and staff, see the College of Education, Health and Human Development | Te Rāngai Ako me te Hauora.



For more general information, email [email protected] or freephone 0800 VARSITY (827 748).