University of Southern Queensland

What you'll study

This programme develops knowledge and skills across curriculum areas (English, mathematics, science, humanities and social sciences, the arts, health and physical education) together with child and adolescent development, inclusive classroom practices and assessment for learning. Core study areas include:

• Foundations of teaching and learning – educational psychology, sociocultural perspectives, and classroom management strategies.
• Curriculum and pedagogy – planning and delivering learning programs across primary year levels, differentiated instruction and inquiry-based learning.
• Literacy and numeracy – evidence-informed approaches to teaching reading, writing and mathematics in early and middle childhood.
• Assessment and reporting – formative and summative assessment, data-informed decision making and feedback practices.
• Inclusion and diversity – supporting learners with diverse backgrounds and needs, Indigenous perspectives in education and multicultural education.
• Digital technologies in education – integrating ICT into teaching and learning and fostering digital literacies.
• Professional experience – a sequence of supervised school placements that increase in length and responsibility, culminating in an extended final placement or capstone professional practice.

The degree is typically structured to build from introductory theoretical subjects through to applied and specialised subjects in later years, with a substantial emphasis on professional experience in partner schools throughout Queensland and beyond.

Entry requirements

Entry pathways commonly include completion of senior secondary school (or equivalent) with an approved tertiary entrance score, or completion of a recognised diploma or other higher education study. Applicants are usually required to demonstrate sound English language proficiency. Other typical requirements include a clear criminal history check and meeting health/fitness to teach standards for school placements. Mature-age applicants and those with appropriate work or community experience may be considered through alternative entry pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates are qualified to teach across the primary years in public, independent and Catholic school sectors and are prepared for initial teacher registration. Common career paths include:

• Primary classroom teacher (early, middle and upper primary).
• Specialist classroom roles (literacy or numeracy coordinator, ICT teacher).
• Student support and inclusion roles (learning support teacher, intervention programs).
• Education leadership and coordination roles with further experience or postgraduate study (curriculum coordinator, year-level leader).
• Positions in education-related agencies, curriculum development, community education and tutoring.

Why study at University of Southern Queensland

USQ offers a strong emphasis on workplace learning through established partnerships with schools across regional and metropolitan areas, giving students diverse placement experiences. The university provides flexible delivery modes, including on-campus and online study options, which suit students balancing study with work or family commitments. Education students benefit from dedicated support services, professional networks and opportunities to engage with research-informed teaching approaches. The degree is designed to meet professional standards for initial teacher preparation, equipping graduates for teacher registration and employment in Australian schools.