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Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Leadership

The AUT Online Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Leadership equips you with the skills and confidence to step into leadership and make a meaningful impact across the education sector.

The AUT Online Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Leadership is designed for professionals looking to take their first step into leadership roles within the education sector. This 100% online programme provides the flexibility to balance study with your career and personal commitments, while building foundational leadership skills that make an impact in your organisation or community.

Why choose the AUT Online Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Leadership?

  • 100% online: Study from anywhere, anytime, with no need to attend campus
  • Tailored for busy professionals: Balance work, life and study with a flexible, part-time structure
  • Your experience counts: Your professional expertise is valued – if you have relevant experience but no degree, you can still qualify
  • Culturally responsive learning: Gain insights into leadership practices that emphasise equity, inclusion and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ensuring your leadership is grounded in cultural understanding
  • A pathway to further study: Successfully completed courses can be credited toward the Master of Educational Leadership, allowing you to continue your academic and professional growth
  • Comprehensive support: Access personalised guidance and resources 7 days a week

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This programme is currently only available for domestic students.

If you already have a university degree

  • A bachelor’s degree, graduate diploma or professional qualification

And

  • 3 years of relevant professional experience

If you don’t yet have a university degree

  • 5 years of work experience

Including

  • 3 years of relevant professional experience

Your experience counts

At AUT Online, we value your professional expertise. If you have relevant work experience but no undergraduate degree, you can still take the next step toward achieving your goals with our Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Leadership programme.

Not sure if you qualify? Enquire now to discuss your eligibility.

The AUT Online Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Leadership is designed to provide a strong foundation in leadership practices, cultural responsiveness and policy interpretation.

You'll learn to:

  • Critically evaluate leadership models and practices, particularly in Māori and Pasifika contexts
  • Build self-awareness and interpersonal skills to lead effectively
  • Gain insights into collaborative practices and professional learning communities
  • Foster leadership approaches that are inclusive, culturally responsive and equitable

You’ll complete two 30-point courses, taken one at a time over trimesters, enabling you to focus on each subject in depth. Course availability may vary depending on the trimester schedule.

Courses overview

The AUT Online Postgraduate Certificate in Educational Leadership equips you with foundational leadership skills and insights, opening doors to leadership roles or enhancing your current position within the education sector.

Potential career paths

  • Team leader or coordinator in educational organisations, including schools, early childhood centres or tertiary institutions
  • Programme manager in community education, vocational training or corporate learning environments
  • Educational advisor or support roles in education-focused NGOs or community organisations
  • Advisory roles in vocational training, early childhood education or tertiary education
  • Leadership positions in corporate education or organisational development
  • Policy support roles in education ministries or organisations, contributing to policy implementation and strategy

This qualification is also an excellent pathway for those considering further study, such as the Master of Educational Leadership, to expand their career potential.

This postgraduate certificate serves as a stepping-stone toward the full Master of Educational Leadership, offering the flexibility to explore leadership principles while balancing your professional and personal commitments.

Successfully completed courses can be credited toward the Master of Educational Leadership, enabling you to seamlessly transition into the master’s programme when you’re ready to take the next step.

Quick facts
Programme code:
ON1052
Level:
8
Points:
60
Duration:
7 months part-time
Delivery:
100% online
Starts:
21 Jul 2025
23 Feb 2026
Fees
Domestic:
  • Full fees: $4,333 (for 60 points)
  • Student services levy (additional, for 60 points): $595.80

Fees are calculated for the full indicative programme cost (180 points), based on 2025 fees, which are reviewed annually.

This online programme is currently not available for international students.