Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This four-year undergraduate program combines primary curriculum studies with specialist units in special education, giving you knowledge and practical skills across the full age range of the primary years. Core areas include child development and learning theory, curriculum and pedagogy for English, mathematics, science, humanities and the arts, and contemporary approaches to inclusive education.

• Inclusive pedagogy and special education: assessment and identification of additional learning needs, Individual Education Plans (IEPs), behaviour support, assistive technology, communication and social skills programmes.
• Curriculum studies: planning and assessment for literacy and numeracy, inquiry-based learning in STEM, creative arts and health and physical education adapted for diverse learners.
• Foundations of teaching: educational psychology, classroom management, ethical and professional practice, Indigenous perspectives in education, child safety and wellbeing.
• Research and evidence-based practice: evaluation of interventions, action research, and translating evidence into classroom practice.
• Professional experience placements: multiple supervised school placements in mainstream and specialist settings across metropolitan and regional contexts to develop classroom teaching competence and reflective practice.

Assessment typically includes written assignments, lesson planning and teaching practice, case studies, observed teaching, and a research or capstone project focussed on inclusive practice. Students are expected to build a professional portfolio documenting classroom experience and competencies.

Entry requirements

Entry is generally based on completion of secondary school or an approved equivalent. Applicants through alternative pathways (such as recognised tertiary study, bridging programs or recognised professional experience) are also considered. Typical prerequisites include strong competence in English; some campuses or admission streams may expect evidence of effective written and spoken communication.

Successful applicants must meet professional suitability checks required for working with children, including a police check and any state-specific working-with-children registrations. Vaccination and health requirements for school placement may also apply. During the course, students are required to complete the nationally mandated literacy and numeracy requirements for initial teacher education (as part of graduation and teacher registration processes).

Career prospects

Graduates are qualified to teach in primary schools and are prepared to work in specialist roles supporting students with additional needs. Common career directions include:

• Primary classroom teacher in public and independent schools.
• Special education teacher in specialist settings, resource centres or inclusive classrooms.
• Learning support coordinator, intervention teacher or literacy/numeracy specialist.
• Education support roles in disability services, government and non‑government education programs, or further study towards leadership, allied health collaboration or postgraduate specialisations.

Graduates who meet state registration requirements are eligible to apply for teacher registration and employment across Australia; many also continue to postgraduate study in areas such as special education, educational leadership or counselling.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU has an established reputation for initial teacher education with a strong emphasis on values‑based practice and inclusive pedagogy. The program integrates substantial, supervised professional experience in a variety of school contexts, allowing students to apply theory in real classrooms while building a professional network.

Students benefit from small-group teaching in professional practice subjects, access to dedicated special education resources and simulation facilities, and academic staff with experience in both mainstream and specialist sectors. ACU’s campus locations across metropolitan and regional Australia provide diverse placement opportunities and local community connections that support employment pathways after graduation.