Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This short postgraduate program focuses on the theological foundations and contemporary practice of religious education. Core areas typically include study of scripture and Christian tradition, contemporary approaches to teaching religion in schools, curriculum design and assessment for religious education, and the pastoral and ethical dimensions of faith-based schooling.

• Foundations of Religious Education: exploration of key theological concepts and the history and purpose of religious education in Catholic schooling.
• Scripture and Tradition: study of biblical texts, methods of interpretation and their use in classroom contexts.
• Pedagogy and Curriculum: contemporary pedagogical approaches specific to R.E., planning units of work, linking learning outcomes to faith formation.
• Assessment and Professional Practice: formative and summative assessment strategies for religious education, reflective practice and professional ethics.
• Leadership and Community Engagement (where offered): engagement with families, parish and diocesan structures and leading R.E. programs in school settings.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Graduate Certificate generally requires a recognised undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification. Practising teachers with a recognised teaching qualification and current teacher registration are well placed for this program, and applicants with substantial relevant professional experience may be considered.

As an online programme, applicants for whom English is not the language of instruction at their prior institution will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency in line with university policy. Specific documentation and any additional prerequisites are confirmed at application.

Career prospects

Graduates enhance their capacity to teach religious education and to contribute to curriculum development and leadership within faith-based schools. Common roles held by graduates include classroom religious educator, curriculum coordinator for R.E., deputy principal with responsibility for mission or learning, diocesan religious education adviser, school chaplaincy support roles and providers of professional development for teachers.

The qualification also provides a pathway into further postgraduate study in theology, religious education or education leadership.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU specialises in education and theology within a Catholic intellectual and pastoral tradition, offering courses developed by academics with experience in Catholic schooling. The online delivery model is designed for working professionals, combining flexible study with rigorous scholarship and practical classroom application.

Students benefit from ACU’s links with dioceses and Catholic school systems, access to research-informed resources in theology and pedagogy, and a university culture that emphasises service, ethical practice and community engagement.