Curtin University

What you'll study

The Master of Teaching combines coursework in educational theory with extensive professional practice in schools. Core study areas typically include curriculum design and assessment, educational psychology and child development, classroom management, inclusive and special education, literacy and numeracy teaching strategies, and the integration of digital technologies in learning. Programs often include subject‑specific pedagogy units for those preparing to teach at secondary level (for example, science, mathematics, humanities or languages), and primary pedagogy units that cover the broad primary curriculum.

Structured professional experience is a central element: students undertake multiple supervised school placements across a range of year levels and settings to develop practical classroom skills, lesson planning and professional practice. Additional topics commonly covered are Indigenous and intercultural perspectives in education, contemporary educational policy, leadership and professional ethics. Assessment methods include lesson planning, observed teaching, reflective journals, professional portfolios and written assignments.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold an accredited bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognised institution. For secondary teaching pathways, applicants usually need demonstrated disciplinary knowledge in the intended teaching subject(s) — commonly a major or substantial study in that subject area. Selection may also consider academic performance, referees’ reports and a statement of purpose outlining motivation for teaching.

International applicants must meet Curtin’s English language requirements. All successful applicants are required to satisfy professional suitability checks prior to placement, which typically include a national police check/criminal history check, child protection/working with children clearance and up‑to‑date immunisation records. Prior classroom experience is not always mandatory but relevant volunteer or paid experience can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are qualified to seek registration as teachers and to work in government, Catholic and independent schools at the primary or secondary level, depending on the pathway completed. Typical roles include classroom teacher, year‑level coordinator, curriculum leader and subject specialist. With experience, graduates may progress to leadership positions such as head of department, deputy principal, curriculum coordinator or student wellbeing roles. Other career options include education consultancy, curriculum development, specialist intervention roles (for literacy or numeracy), and further postgraduate study in education research or leadership.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin’s teacher education is focused on practical, school‑based learning supported by contemporary research in education. The university maintains partnerships with a broad network of schools across Western Australia and beyond, enabling diverse placement experiences in metropolitan, regional and remote contexts. Curtin emphasises inclusive practice and Indigenous perspectives within the curriculum and supports students with specialist facilities and centres for teacher education.

Students benefit from experienced academic staff who combine research expertise with classroom experience, and from a curriculum that integrates digital learning, professional practice and reflective pedagogy. The program is designed to meet the requirements for teacher registration and to prepare graduates for the contemporary demands of schools and communities.