Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This program covers the knowledge and practical skills required to teach children across the primary years. Core study areas include curriculum and pedagogy for English, mathematics, science, humanities and social sciences, the arts, health and physical education. You will also study child development and psychology, differentiated and inclusive teaching strategies, classroom management, assessment and reporting, literacy and numeracy intervention techniques, and digital pedagogies.

Learning is delivered through a combination of online study, intensive on‑campus blocks and multiple professional experience placements in local primary schools. Typical subjects and modules include:

• Foundations of Primary Education and the Australian Curriculum
• Teaching Literacy and Language
• Teaching Numeracy and Mathematical Thinking
• Teaching Science and Social Inquiry in Primary Years
• Inclusive Education and Supporting Diverse Learners
• Assessment for Learning and Reporting
• Digital Technologies and Contemporary Pedagogies
• Professional Experience and Reflective Practice (several placement blocks)

Assessment methods include lesson planning and delivery, reflective journals, case studies, curriculum design projects, observed teaching in schools and online quizzes or essays. The professional experience component is substantial, designed to meet the requirements for initial teacher education and practical readiness for classroom teaching.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to have completed a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent (for example Year 12). Admission may also be available through prior tertiary study, recognised vocational qualifications or relevant work experience. ACU may apply an academic selection threshold for direct entry; alternative entry pathways and enabling programs may be available for non‑standard applicants.

Successful applicants must meet professional suitability requirements for working with children. Typical conditions for enrolment and placement include a current working with children check (or equivalent), a satisfactory national police check, and evidence of immunisations and first aid training where required by placement schools. International applicants should check English language requirements and visa regulations.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for registration as primary school teachers and employment in government, Catholic and independent primary schools. Common graduate roles include classroom teacher across early and middle primary years, specialist literacy or numeracy teacher, and support teacher for students with additional needs.

With experience, graduates move into roles such as curriculum coordinator, year or stage leader, learning and support coordinator, or school leadership positions. The degree also provides a foundation for further study in areas such as special education, educational leadership, curriculum studies or counselling, and for roles in education policy, community education programs and non‑government organisations.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU is known for its strong focus on teacher education, combining theory with substantial, supervised professional experience in schools. The Away From Base delivery model supports students living in regional or remote locations by offering blended learning, scheduled on‑campus intensives and placements arranged close to home where possible.

Students benefit from experienced academic staff who are active in research and school partnerships, small cohort sizes that allow personalised feedback, and structured support for transitioning into the profession. ACU’s education programs are developed to meet teacher registration requirements and emphasise ethical practice, inclusion and pastoral care in line with the university’s values, while welcoming students of all backgrounds and beliefs.