This program is a student teaching program for Pitt-Johnstown education majors only. This is an excellent opportunity for students to apply methods learned at Pitt-Johnstown to a "real world" teaching experience! Students spend 7 weeks at Johnstown for the first half of the semester prior to traveling to New Zealand for 7 weeks to both complete their academics and to student teach. It is a great opportunity to combine study abroad and student teaching abroad.
Interested students who meet the above requirements may contact Dr. Bethany McConnell
As an engaged and active participant in this program, you will have the opportunity to develop:
- writing and implementing daily lesson plans that match standards and school curriculum
- communicating clearly and professionally with students, teachers, and parents
- instruction that uses "best practices"/effective teaching pedagogy based on student level and subject matter
- helping to create an environment that supports diverse learners academically, socially, and emotionally
Auckland is the largest and most populous urban area in new Zealand. Schools in New Zealand are known internationally for their innovative, inquiry-based approach to teaching and learning. New Zealand is consistently ranked in the top five countries for education and student achievement.
Student teaching in New Zealand provides you unique opportunities to experience the exemplary practices highlighted in your Pitt-Johnstown methods courses. In Auckland, diversity is the norm rather than the exception. You will have opportunities to practice differentiated instruction with English language learners in all classroom levels. Also, you will be able to learn about another education system and compare it to your US experience.
Living arrangements for Pitt-Johnstown students consist of a homestay arranged by JCL Education, Ltd. For this homestay, students will be matched with a family from the school community and a teacher at their assigned school. All meals are provided by the host family. Homestays are usually located within walking distance of neighborhood schools, as well as local shopping and areas of interest. Public transportation is easily accessible in the greater Auckland area.
You can expect your housing to have the following:
- homestay with a local family
- shared bathroom
- linens and towels
- all meals provided by your homestay family
- walking distance to school or transportation
We do our best to provide the most accurate information about housing and amenities but due to the nature of the locations in which we offer programs and limited availability, these items are subject to change. Contact your program manager with any questions.
The Student Teaching in New Zealand program iwill include two courses:
FDSED 1188: Student Teaching New Zealand (7 credits)
FDSED 1197: FDSED Teaching Seminar Abroad (1 credit)
Information about how the courses on this program count towards general education requirements for different schools and campuses can be found here.
JCL Education (New Zealand), Ltd. will provide support for this program. Arranging student teaching placements and homestays, students will work closely with the JCL directors.
Lauren Perri
Hi! I'm Lauren, the Study Abroad Coordinator at the Greensburg campus. As an undergraduate student, I studied abroad in Marburg, Germany. Since then, my career in international education has taken me to many locations around the world. In addition to traveling, I enjoy growing my own vegetables, going to the beach, and hanging out in the backyard. Let's chat about study abroad opportunities - lap140@pitt.edu or 724-836-7494.
Spring 2020
| In-State Fee for New Zealand | Out-of-State Fee for New Zealand |
| $6599 (+ Pitt Johnstown tuition and fees for first 1/2 of term at Johnstown) | $9,999 (+ Pitt Johnstown tuition and fees for first 1/2 of term at Johnstown) |
| Arrive in New Zealand | Depart New Zealand |
Fall 2020
| In-State Fee | Out-of-State Fee |
| TBD based on 20-21 tuition rates | TBD based on 20-21 tuition rates |
| Arrive in New Zealand | Depart New Zealand |
| coming soon | coming soon |
Students enroll in eight credits of classes at Pitt-Johnstown during the semester that they study abroad and prior to their departure to New Zealand. Costs are based on a part-time rate for the Johnstown rate plus the program fee from New Zealand.
Keep in mind that dates may change. You shouldn't book airfare until given confirmation from your program manager.
As a part of your program fee, the following are included:
- 8 credits while in NZ
- Housing in host family in New Zealand
- Some meals (breakfast and dinners) with the host family in New Zealand
- Student teaching experience in a diverse environment abroad
While your program fee will cover most of your expenses, keep in mind that you are also responsible for the following:
- Additional tuition and fees for first 1/2 of term in Johnstown
- Roundtrip Airfare ~ $2200
- Study Abroad Administrative Fee $400
- Room and board (if applicable) while in Johnstown for the first half of the term
- Passport fees $150
- Meals and personal expenses (~$400 - $500)
Remember that your lifestyle and spending choices can greatly affect the amount of money you'll need while abroad. Visit our Budgeting page for more information.
Students applying to the Student Teaching in New Zealand program are required to complete the prerequisite courses for the local student teaching experience, pass all requisite PRAXIS exams, and meet all other requirements for applying to the Upper Level.
Students are required to attend a group travel and safety orientation prior to departure. Fall students attend their orientation during the first week of April and spring students attend during the first week in December. Participating students will be contacted with specific information regarding date, location and time
