Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies provides a broad foundation in key areas of education without being an initial teacher registration course. Typical topics include:

• Foundations of education: theories of learning, developmental psychology and the social and historical context of schooling.
• Curriculum and pedagogy: curriculum design, lesson planning, evidence-informed teaching strategies and assessment for learning.
• Inclusive education: differentiated instruction, support for diverse learners and strategies for creating equitable learning environments.
• Digital technologies in education: integrating educational technologies and e-learning design principles.
• Assessment and evaluation: formative and summative assessment practices, data use to inform teaching and program evaluation.
• Research methods in education: introductory qualitative and quantitative methods, critical appraisal of educational research and small-scale project design.

Delivery is typically a mix of taught coursework and applied assessment tasks. The programme can be taken part-time or full-time and is often offered across a range of campus and online modes to suit working professionals. Completion provides credit and a coherent preparation for further honours or master’s level study in education.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in any discipline. ACU also considers applicants with substantial professional experience in education or related fields. International applicants must meet ACU’s English language requirements, and may need to provide academic transcripts and a statement of purpose outlining their reasons for study.

Specific admission conditions may vary by campus and applicant background; some candidates may be offered provisional entry with additional bridging study or conditions to satisfy programme learning outcomes.

Career prospects

Graduates use the Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies to move into or progress within a wide range of education-related roles. Common career pathways include:

• Education officer or coordinator roles in schools, non-government organisations and government departments.
• Curriculum developer, learning designer or assessment officer in schools, vocational education or private providers.
• Training and development positions in corporate or community settings.
• Roles in student support, inclusion and educational policy, including officer positions in youth services or disability support organisations.
• A stepping-stone to further study, such as a Master of Education, postgraduate research or a teaching qualification for those who later choose to qualify as a registered teacher.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU has a long-standing reputation in teacher education and applied educational research, with a focus on ethical practice and social justice that informs coursework and graduate outcomes. The university offers flexible study options across multiple campuses and online delivery, making the programme accessible for working professionals. Students benefit from staff who have practical school and sector experience, and from ACU’s partnerships with schools and community organisations which support applied learning and professional networking.

The Graduate Diploma is positioned within ACU’s education portfolio so credits can often be carried forward into postgraduate programmes in education, allowing graduates to build a customised study pathway aligned with career goals.