Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This double-specialist degree combines core secondary teaching studies with a dedicated sequence in special education. You will study curriculum, pedagogy and assessment for adolescent learners alongside units on inclusive practice, disability studies, differentiated instruction and behaviour support.

• Curriculum and Pedagogy for Secondary Education — subject-specific methods, planning for learning, classroom management, formative and summative assessment.
• Two Secondary Teaching Areas — in-depth study in two teaching disciplines (for example English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Languages or Health and Physical Education), including curriculum content and teaching strategies.
• Special Education Core — inclusive curriculum adaptations, assessment of additional learning needs, Individual Education Plans (IEPs), strategies for students with intellectual, physical, sensory or developmental disabilities.
• Behaviour and Wellbeing — positive behaviour support, trauma-informed practice, social and emotional learning.
• Professional Experience and Practicum — multiple school placements across primary, secondary and special settings, gradually increasing in length and responsibility to develop classroom competence.
• Legal, Ethical and Professional Studies — child protection, professional ethics, Indigenous perspectives, working with families and communities.
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice — using educational research to inform teaching decisions and intervention design for diverse learners.

Entry requirements

Admission is generally based on successful completion of secondary schooling or an equivalent qualification, with selection typically using an ATAR or recognised alternative entry pathway. Applicants without a standard ATAR may be considered through pathway programs, studies or relevant work experience. International students must meet ACU's English language requirements.

• Secondary school completion or equivalent; specific campuses or state registration pathways may require particular subject backgrounds for chosen secondary teaching areas.
• Evidence of suitability to work with children (police check/working with children/working with vulnerable people clearance) and up-to-date immunisations and first aid certification are required before commencing professional placements.
• Some applicants may be required to attend an interview or provide a statement of intent demonstrating motivation for teaching and working with students with additional needs.
• Domestic applicants should check state teacher registration authority requirements that apply after graduation; graduates must apply to the relevant authority for teacher registration.

Career prospects

Graduates are qualified to teach in secondary schools and are equipped with specialised skills to support students with disability or additional learning needs. Common career paths include:

• Secondary classroom teacher across a broad range of school systems.
• Learning support or special education teacher, working within mainstream schools or specialist settings.
• Co-ordinator roles such as inclusion coordinator, learning support coordinator or wellbeing officer.
• Specialist roles in allied education services, disability support organisations, curriculum development, educational policy or advocacy.
• Pathways to postgraduate study in special education, educational leadership or educational psychology for advanced or specialist roles.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU has an established reputation for teacher education with a strong emphasis on ethical practice, social justice and inclusion. The university provides substantial practical experience through partnerships with Catholic, independent and government schools, enabling early and varied classroom placements. Small cohort sizes and practice-focused units mean you receive close support from academic staff who are active in teaching and special education research. ACU’s courses are designed to meet the accreditation requirements of state and territory teacher registration bodies, helping graduates transition to professional registration and employment.