Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This programme combines theological foundations with contemporary approaches to teaching and curriculum design in religious education. Core study areas typically include:

• Foundations of Christian Theology and Scripture — key doctrines, biblical interpretation and the historical development of Christian thought.
• Pedagogy of Religious Education — contemporary methods for planning, delivering and assessing religious education in primary and secondary contexts.
• Curriculum Design and Assessment — designing units of work, integrating cross-curricular priorities, and assessment for learning in faith contexts.
• Liturgy, Sacramental Life and Pastoral Care — understanding worship, sacraments and approaches to supporting spiritual wellbeing.
• Faith Formation and Youth Ministry — approaches to catechesis, ministry with young people and family faith formation.
• Ethics, Social Justice and Catholic Social Teaching — applying ethical frameworks and Catholic social principles to contemporary issues.
• Research Methods or Capstone Project — research skills relevant to practice-based questions in religious education, or a supervised project on a relevant issue.

The Graduate Diploma is taught through a mix of lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical placements or school-based projects, and can be undertaken full time or part time depending on your circumstances. Units emphasise reflective practice, classroom-ready skills and connections between theology and educational practice.

Entry requirements

Admission normally requires an undergraduate degree from a recognised institution. Applicants with a degree in education, theology or a related discipline are well placed, and practising teachers or those with relevant professional experience in schools, parishes or community ministry are encouraged to apply. Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements. Additional selection criteria may include a statement of purpose and referees who can speak to your suitability for study and/or ministry in religious education.

Career prospects

Graduates use the Graduate Diploma to specialise in religious education roles across Catholic and independent schools, parishes and community organisations. Typical career pathways include:

• Religious education teacher or classroom teacher with a specialisation in RE (where teacher registration requirements are met)
• Curriculum coordinator or leader of religious education in primary and secondary schools
• Parish catechist, youth ministry leader or sacramental coordinator
• Pastoral care worker, chaplaincy support roles (often in combination with additional qualifications or experience)
• Further study at postgraduate level, such as a Master of Education, Master of Teaching or research degrees in theology and religious education

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU has a long-standing commitment to Catholic education and close partnerships with Catholic school systems and dioceses across Australia, providing practical links for placements and employment. Teaching staff are experienced educators and theologians who emphasise contemporary, socially engaged approaches to faith formation. The university offers flexible delivery options across multiple campuses and online study to suit working professionals, and a learning environment that integrates academic rigour with a focus on pastoral care and social justice. Students benefit from resources tailored to religious education and opportunities to engage with local school communities and parish ministry.