Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This three-year undergraduate degree builds a foundation in the social, psychological and curricular dimensions of education. Core study areas typically include the history and philosophy of education, child and adolescent development, curriculum design and assessment, inclusive and special education, behaviour and classroom management, and educational research methods. Students also study contemporary policy issues in schooling, Indigenous perspectives in education, and ethical and professional practice grounded in ACU's values.

The course offers a mix of lecture, seminar and tutorial learning plus practical components. You can usually choose electives that reflect particular interests such as early childhood education, youth work, disability support, community education or educational leadership. Many students complete a supervised professional placement or community-based project that provides hands-on experience in educational settings and builds workplace skills.

Typical modules and topics

• Foundations of Education: history, philosophy and contemporary issues
• Child and Adolescent Development
• Curriculum Design and Assessment
• Inclusive Practice and Special/Additional Needs
• Behaviour Management and Positive Learning Environments
• Educational Research Methods and Evidence-Informed Practice
• Indigenous Perspectives in Education
• Professional Experience or Community Placement

Entry requirements

Admission is generally available to applicants who have completed their secondary school certificate (or recognised equivalent) and meet ACU's undergraduate entry criteria. Applicants with prior tertiary study, vocational education and training (VET) qualifications or relevant work experience may be eligible through alternative admission pathways. Domestic applicants who do not qualify on academic grounds can often apply through Bridging or enabling programs.

International applicants must meet ACU's English language proficiency standards and provide recognised secondary or post-secondary qualifications. Specific requirements (such as prerequisite subjects, selection ranks or portfolio/work experience evidence) vary by campus and applicant type, so check ACU's official admissions information for the precise conditions that apply to you.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of education-related roles beyond classroom teaching. Common destinations include education support roles (teacher aides and learning support officers), early years services, youth work and community education, disability and inclusion support, curriculum and program coordination, administration in education settings, and roles in NGOs or government education policy units.

Many graduates use the Bachelor of Educational Studies as a pathway into postgraduate teacher education (Master of Teaching) or specialised postgraduate programmes in educational leadership, special education, counselling or research. The degree provides transferable skills in communication, project management, critical thinking and evidence-informed practice that are valued across the broader human services, community and education sectors.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU is known for a focus on education as a professional and community activity, combining rigorous academic study with practical experience. Students benefit from ACU's partnerships with schools and community organisations, which support professional placements and local engagement projects. The university emphasises inclusive practice and social justice, with curriculum content that addresses diversity, Indigenous perspectives and ethical professional conduct.

ACU's education staff include experienced teacher educators and researchers working on current issues in curriculum, pedagogy and inclusion. Small-group teaching and campus-based student support services help students develop practical classroom and community skills as well as academic capabilities. The Bachelor of Educational Studies is available at multiple ACU campuses, offering flexibility in study location and opportunities to connect with local education communities.