Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This program introduces contemporary approaches to religious education, drawing on theology, pedagogy, curriculum studies and pastoral practice. Core topics typically include the theological foundations of religious education, curriculum design for faith formation, classroom strategies and assessment, and the role of religion in contemporary society.

• Theological and Philosophical Foundations: study of scripture, doctrine and traditions that underpin religious education, and reflection on faith development across the lifespan.
• Pedagogy of Religious Education: methods and strategies for teaching religious education in primary and secondary settings, including inquiry-based, dialogical and experiential approaches.
• Curriculum Design and Assessment: designing units and resources aligned to state and diocesan frameworks, formative and summative assessment, and inclusive practice for diverse classrooms.
• Contextual and Contemporary Issues: engagement with contemporary ethical, social and interreligious issues and their implications for classroom practice and school culture.
• Professional Practice or Capstone: practical project or placement-based assessment that integrates theory with workplace-based religious education practice.

Delivery combines seminars, workshops, online activities and workplace-based tasks, allowing practising educators to balance study with professional commitments. The program is compact and designed to be completed in a short timeframe, and individual units may be credited towards higher degrees in education or theology at the university.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold an undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification and to have relevant professional experience. As this award targets practising educators, applicants with current teacher registration or demonstrable experience in an educational, parish or community education role are favourably considered.

• Academic requirement: an undergraduate degree or recognised equivalent.
• Professional requirement: current or recent experience in teaching, religious education, chaplaincy or related community education work; some campuses may require evidence of ongoing employment.
• English language: proficiency in English at a level sufficient for graduate study; international applicants will need to meet the university's standard English language requirements.
• Additional requirements: referees or a statement of intent outlining professional goals may be requested; in some cases, approval from an employing school or parish for workplace components could be required.

Career prospects

Graduates use the Graduate Certificate to enhance their practice and progress in roles that involve religious education and faith formation. Common career pathways include:

• Religious education teacher in Catholic and other faith-based primary and secondary schools.
• Leader of faith formation programs or religious education coordinator within schools or diocesan offices.
• Parish education roles, catechist or sacramental program coordinator.
• School chaplaincy and pastoral care positions.
• Further study options such as a Master of Education or postgraduate degrees in theology and ministry for those seeking senior leadership or academic careers.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University has a strong tradition in education and theology, with teaching and research oriented towards the needs of Catholic and broader faith-based schooling. Students benefit from staff who combine academic expertise in theology and religious education with practical experience in schools, diocesan settings and community ministries.

• Practice-focused learning: the program emphasises classroom-applicable strategies and workplace-integrated assessment, making it directly relevant for practising educators.
• Accreditation and networks: ACU works closely with diocesan education offices and Catholic schools, providing pathways to professional networks and ongoing professional development.
• Flexible delivery: a mix of campus-based and online study options supports teachers and professionals managing work commitments.
• Progression: units from the Graduate Certificate can often be credited towards higher postgraduate awards at ACU, allowing further specialisation in education or theology.