Central Queensland University

What you'll study

This undergraduate degree builds knowledge and skills across the primary curriculum and contemporary teaching practice. You will study curriculum content (English, mathematics, science, humanities and social sciences, health and physical education, the arts), child development and learning theory, inclusive education, assessment and reporting, classroom management, and the integration of digital technologies into learning.

Units are organised into core professional education subjects, curriculum-specific methods units, and school-based professional experience placements. Typical study areas include:

• Professional practice and pedagogy – lesson design, classroom management, differentiation and behaviour support.
• Curriculum methods – subject-specific teaching strategies for literacy, numeracy, science, HASS, the arts and health/PE.
• Inclusive and special education – supporting diverse learners, Indigenous perspectives and cultural responsiveness.
• Assessment, planning and reporting – formative and summative assessment, data-informed planning and parent communication.
• Educational research and professional inquiry – small-scale research projects and reflective practice.
• Digital and emerging pedagogies – using educational technologies and e-learning design.

The degree includes multiple supervised professional experience blocks in schools, progressively increasing in length and responsibility to ensure readiness for classroom teaching and to meet registration requirements. Depending on the pathway, the program may be delivered on-campus, online or in a blended format to suit students in metropolitan and regional locations.

Entry requirements

Admission is typically open to applicants who have completed secondary education or an equivalent qualification, with selection based on academic results and other criteria such as a personal statement or interview for some applicants. Applicants who hold prior tertiary qualifications, relevant vocational qualifications or substantial work experience may be eligible for alternative entry pathways or advanced standing for recognised prior learning.

Prospective students should also be aware of non-academic requirements for school professional experience placements and teacher registration. These commonly include a clear working with children check or equivalent, a police records check, and meeting health or immunisation requirements. International applicants will need to demonstrate competent English proficiency and meet visa and enrolment requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are qualified to apply for primary classroom teacher positions across government, independent and Catholic school systems, typically teaching Foundation/Kindergarten to Year 6 (or equivalent). With experience, graduates can progress to roles such as curriculum coordinator, learning support teacher, year-level coordinator, or specialist teacher in areas such as literacy, numeracy or digital learning.

Further career pathways include leadership and administrative roles, educational consultant or advisor positions, and specialist roles in early childhood services, community education, Indigenous education programs, curriculum development, and teacher professional development. Many graduates also choose to undertake postgraduate study (for example a Graduate Diploma or Master's in Education) to specialise or move into leadership and policy roles.

Why study at Central Queensland University

Central Queensland University has a strong emphasis on preparing teachers for work in regional, rural and remote school contexts as well as metropolitan settings. The university offers flexible study modes, including on-campus study at multiple regional campuses and online delivery that supports students who live outside major cities.

Key strengths include extensive school partnerships that provide diverse placement opportunities, a practical curriculum aligned to teacher registration standards, and support services for pre-service teachers such as placement coordination, academic support and career services. CQU’s local connections and focus on community engagement help graduates transition into employment across a wide range of school environments.