Charles Sturt University

What you'll study

This programme focuses on advanced practice in adult and vocational education, combining theory, curriculum design and applied assessment. You study how adults learn in workplace and vocational settings, the regulatory context of VET, and approaches to designing competency-based programs.

• Adult learning theory and practice — principles of adult learning, motivation, learner diversity and inclusive practice.
• Designing vocational curriculum — course and assessment mapping, workplace competency frameworks, and aligning learning outcomes with industry standards.
• Assessment and compliance in VET — competency-based assessment, validation, recognition of prior learning (RPL), and quality assurance requirements for registered training organisations (RTOs).
• Workplace training and facilitation — delivery strategies for on-the-job training, coaching, mentoring and use of simulated environments.
• Learning technologies — blended and online delivery methods, digital resources, and integrating e‑learning into vocational delivery.
• Evaluation and improvement — program evaluation, feedback processes and continuous improvement in teaching and assessment.

Study typically combines taught units, practical assessment tasks and workplace‑based projects or practicum so you apply learning in real vocational contexts. Modes of study commonly include online and blended delivery to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification and to have relevant experience in vocational education, training delivery or a related industry role. Candidates without a degree but with substantial professional experience in VET may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

• Evidence of workplace or training experience in vocational education, such as a current trainer/assessor role or industry training position.
• Academic transcripts from prior tertiary study or a portfolio demonstrating equivalent professional learning and experience.
• English language proficiency in line with university requirements for coursework study, if your prior study was not in English.
• Some applicants may be asked to provide a statement of purpose and referee contacts who can confirm workplace experience.

Career prospects

Graduates gain skills and credentials valued across the VET sector, industry training departments and organisational learning teams. Typical career outcomes include:

• Trainer and assessor in TAFE, private registered training organisations (RTOs) and community providers.
• Workplace trainer, learning and development officer, or skills coach within industry and large employers.
• Curriculum developer, assessment specialist or RTO compliance officer working on program design and regulatory requirements.
• Training coordinator or manager overseeing delivery teams and quality systems in vocational settings.
• Consultant in training program design, RPL processes or digital learning for vocational clients.

Why study at Charles Sturt University

Charles Sturt has a strong reputation for practical, industry‑relevant education and extensive experience delivering professional development to vocational educators. The university offers flexible, student‑centred delivery with options for online and blended study suited to working professionals across regional and metropolitan areas.

• Curriculum developed with an emphasis on current VET policy, compliance and real workplace application.
• Access to experienced academic staff and industry partners with strengths in vocational pedagogy and workplace learning.
• Opportunities to complete workplace projects or practicums that directly strengthen your professional practice and portfolio.
• Support services for distance learners, including online student resources, academic advising and digital learning tools.