Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This professionally accredited master’s combines advanced study in secondary pedagogy with coursework focused on leading learning. Core study areas include curriculum design for secondary contexts, contemporary pedagogies, assessment for learning, inclusive education and classroom management. The course also includes subjects on educational leadership, professional inquiry and the design and implementation of whole-school improvement strategies.

Typical modules and subjects you can expect:

• Secondary Curriculum and Pedagogy: subject-specific curriculum planning, differentiation and effective teaching strategies for Years 7–12.
• Assessment, Feedback and Data Use: formative and summative assessment design, using evidence to inform teaching and reporting.
• Inclusive and Adaptive Practice: supporting diverse learners, special education needs and culturally responsive practice.
• Professional Inquiry and Research Methods: small-scale research projects or inquiry into classroom practice to inform improvement.
• Leading Learning and Instructional Leadership: strategies for coaching, mentoring, leading professional learning and implementing change.
• Professional Experience: supervised school placements across a range of secondary settings to develop classroom competence and meet accreditation requirements.

The program is delivered through a mix of on-campus workshops, online study and school-based practicums. Study load is typically expressed in full‑time equivalent terms and can often be completed part-time to accommodate working teachers.

Entry requirements

Admission usually requires a recognised bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a minimum level of academic achievement. Applicants without prior study in education will be required to complete the professional preparation components of the degree. Prospective students must also meet professional suitability checks required by schools, which commonly include background checks, working with children clearances and immunisation requirements.

Additional requirements may include:

• Evidence of meeting English language proficiency standards for those whose prior tertiary instruction was not in English.
• Selection interview or portfolio in some cases, particularly where applicants are seeking specified subject-method streams.
• Prerequisites for some subject specialisations (for example, prior study in the secondary teaching subject area) may be required or recommended.

Career prospects

Graduates qualify for initial teacher accreditation and are prepared for classroom roles across secondary year levels. Career pathways include classroom teacher, head of faculty/department, curriculum coordinator, teacher mentor or instructional coach. The leadership and inquiry focus also supports transitions into roles such as deputy principal, curriculum specialist, professional development provider, policy adviser or education consultant. Graduates may work in a range of school settings — public, independent and Catholic sectors — as well as in ministries of education and non-government organisations focused on education.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University has a long-standing focus on teacher education and established partnerships with schools across Australia, providing strong practicum placement networks and opportunities to engage with diverse school communities. ACU emphasises ethical and inclusive practice consistent with its mission, while maintaining a strong emphasis on evidence-informed teaching and leadership. The university’s education staff include experienced school leaders and researchers, and the program is structured to support both new graduates and practising teachers seeking leadership development. Practical orientation, school partnerships and dedicated support for professional accreditation make ACU a widely chosen provider for postgraduate teacher education.