Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This combined program integrates professional teacher education with a focused Technology discipline pathway. Core education studies cover pedagogy, curriculum design, assessment, inclusive practice, classroom management and adolescent development. Technology-focused units explore design thinking, materials and manufacturing processes, digital systems, programming and computational thinking, computer aided design (CAD), robotics and automation, and emerging technologies in education.

Students progress from foundational theory in the early years to applied practice in later years. A strong emphasis is placed on practical, hands‑on learning in workshops, makerspaces and computer labs, together with project‑based assessment and industry links. Professional experience placements in partner secondary schools are embedded throughout the degree, increasing in length and responsibility to build classroom readiness and reflective professional practice.

• Educational foundations: pedagogy, curriculum studies, assessment and behaviour management
• Subject methodology: teaching Technology and Digital Technologies across Years 7–12
• Technology discipline content: materials, systems and control, CAD/CAM, programming, electronics and robotics
• Digital literacy: software tools, multimedia production, data concepts and network basics
• Professional experience: consecutive and block placements in secondary schools with mentor supervision
• Capstone / professional practice subject requiring lesson design, classroom leadership and a teaching portfolio

Entry requirements

Entry is typically based on completion of secondary school (Year 12) or an equivalent qualification. Applicants are usually expected to demonstrate proficiency in English; some campuses or states may require a specific English or literacy prerequisite. Relevant senior secondary subjects such as mathematics, design and technology, information technology or related STEM subjects are advantageous but not always mandatory.

Alternative pathways for mature‑age applicants, those with previous tertiary study, or applicants with vocational qualifications are commonly available. All students must meet professional requirements for school placement, including a Working with Children check (or state equivalent), a national police check, and up‑to‑date immunisation status as required by partner schools. Selection may also consider personal statements, interviews or referees where demand is high.

Career prospects

Graduates are qualified to seek teacher registration and employment as secondary teachers specialising in Technology and/or Digital Technologies. Common first roles include classroom teacher in public, independent or Catholic secondary schools and specialist technology teacher roles. With experience, graduates move into subject coordination (e.g. STEM or Technology coordinator), curriculum development, e‑learning design, industry‑school liaison, vocational education and training (VET) delivery, or educational leadership roles.

Transferable skills from the Technology strand — technical problem solving, digital tool fluency, project management and design thinking — also open opportunities in community education, youth programs, educational resource development and technology industry roles that engage with schools.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU is known for its strong emphasis on teacher education and close partnerships with schools, providing sustained and supervised professional placements that prepare graduates for immediate classroom practice. The university offers dedicated facilities for technology education, including workshops, fabrication labs and digital studios, and supports students with experienced academic staff who combine educational research with practical industry experience.

Students benefit from small cohort teaching in professional units, structured support for placement and wellbeing, and pathways into postgraduate education and leadership programs. While ACU upholds its Catholic identity and values, its programs are open to students of all backgrounds and focus on inclusive, evidence‑based practice for diverse school contexts.