Master of Applied Professional Studies (Adult Teaching)
Teaching
A course by
Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
Advance your adult teaching expertise with the Master of Applied Professional Studies (Adult Teaching) at Toi Ohomai. Develop reflective, research, and practical skills for leadership roles that connect directly with your professional practice.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 18 months
Core skills this course teaches

Reflective Professional Practice
Demonstrate advanced skills in reflecting on and improving professional practice within adult teaching environments.

Critique and Apply Adult Learning Theory
Analyse and evaluate contemporary theories of adult learning and use them effectively in a range of educational settings.

Design Assessment and Learning Programmes
Create and implement effective assessment strategies and learning programmes tailored for adult learners.
What You're Signing Up For
This master's degree supports current professionals to extend their skills in adult education through critically reflective practice, advanced pedagogical theory, curriculum design, applied research, and work-integrated assessment. Students apply theory to real-world workplace situations, directly benefiting professional employment while developing advanced research abilities via a dissertation or research project. The programme is suitable for those wishing to advance roles in tertiary teaching, educational resource development, or academic management.
Course Content
- Critical Reflective Practice
- Adult Learning Theory
- Assessing for Learning
- Designing Learning Programmes for Adult Learners
- Adult Teaching Practice
- Nga Tikanga Rangahau: Research Protocols
- Research Project OR Dissertation
What you need to know first
A bachelor's degree or bachelor's degree with honours in a cognate subject with at least a B average
OR a postgraduate certificate or postgraduate diploma in a cognate subject with at least a B average
Relevant work experience in the field (typically access to a relevant workplace or at least two years' relevant experience)
Applicants not meeting the above may be admitted on academic merit and relevant experience, subject to the completion of qualifying papers
IELTS Academic score of 6.5 with no band below 6 or a NZ Certificate in English Language (Level 5) with Academic Endorsement, or meeting NZQA English Proficiency Outcomes

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Education
Professional Training
Adult and Tertiary Teaching

Future employment opportunities might be
Tertiary Lecturer/Tutor
Staff Development and Training Officer
Educational Resources Designer/Writer
Academic Manager
Advancement in current profession

Known for hands-on, industry-aligned education, Toi Ohomai focuses on giving learners real skills that lead to real outcomes. With strong employer connections, supportive teaching, and clear pathways across certificates, diplomas, and degrees, it’s a place where learning stays relevant and confidence grows over time. Programmes span trades, construction, business, health, creative industries, technology, and primary industries, helping learners build experience and momentum for whatever comes next.