Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This online bachelor degree covers foundational and specialised teacher education content designed to prepare graduates for classroom practice in both primary and secondary settings. Study is delivered through a mix of online lectures and tutorials, digital resources, synchronous workshops and multiple school-based professional experience placements.

• Foundations of education: educational theory, human development, learning and assessment principles, and the history and purpose of schooling.
• Curriculum and pedagogy: planning, programme design, differentiated instruction, evidence-based teaching strategies and formative and summative assessment.
• Subject methods: primary curriculum areas (literacy, numeracy, science, humanities, arts) and secondary subject-specific methods relevant to the faculty of study (for example: English, mathematics, science, languages or humanities).
• Inclusive and special education: strategies for diverse learners, differentiation, learning support and working with students with disability.
• Classroom and behaviour management: sustainable behaviour strategies, creating positive learning environments and restorative practices.
• Digital and contemporary literacies: use of educational technologies, online pedagogy and digital curriculum design.
• Indigenous perspectives and social justice: Australian Indigenous histories and cultures, culturally responsive pedagogies and ethical practice.
• Professional experience: staged school practicums across primary and secondary contexts, with increasing responsibility and mentor supervision leading to readiness for classroom induction.

Structure

The course is structured across a sequence of core units and elective/subject-method units, typically undertaken over three to four years full-time equivalent. Online coursework is combined with several blocks of on-site school placements located in approved partner schools; students should be prepared to travel to schools for practicums and occasional campus or regional workshops.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and applicants must meet academic and professional suitability criteria. Typical requirements include:

• Completion of senior secondary school or equivalent (sufficient academic results as defined by the university) or completion of an approved alternative pathway.
• Satisfactory literacy and numeracy proficiency; some applicants may demonstrate this through prior study or testing where required.
• Evidence of suitability to work with children, which commonly includes a current police check and a working with children / background check as required by state/territory authorities.
• Meeting health and immunisation requirements for school placements (students are responsible for adhering to placement-provider health policies).
• International applicants must meet ACU English language requirements and visa conditions for any on-campus or in-person placement components.
• Some applicants may be asked to provide a personal statement, referee reports or attend an interview to demonstrate communication skills and motivation for teaching.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for teacher registration and classroom roles across primary and secondary schooling depending on the subjects and years covered by their course and practicum experience. Typical career paths include:

• Primary classroom teacher (early years, middle primary or upper primary).
• Secondary teacher in one or more subject areas, following completion of required subject-method units.
• Specialist roles such as literacy or numeracy intervention teacher, English as an Additional Language (EAL) teacher, and learning support coordinator.
• School-based leadership and curriculum coordination roles after initial classroom experience.
• Further study leading to specialist or senior roles, such as a Master of Education, curriculum development, educational policy or leadership pathways.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU has a long-standing reputation in teacher education and strong partnerships with schools across Australia, which support practicum placement quality and professional networking. The university emphasises values-based education, pastoral care and social justice, integrating these themes into teacher preparation. Online delivery provides flexibility for learners balancing work or family commitments while maintaining required on-site professional experience. Students also benefit from university student support services, dedicated education academic staff, and access to resources designed to bridge theory and contemporary classroom practice.