Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The program focuses on contemporary approaches to health professional education, combining theory and applied practice. Core topics typically include curriculum design and evaluation, assessment and feedback in clinical settings, educational research methods, leadership and change management in education, and the use of technology and simulation for learning.

• Curriculum design and evaluation – principles of competency‑based curricula, mapping learning outcomes and aligning assessment.
• Assessment and feedback – workplace‑based assessment, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs), formative and summative feedback strategies.
• Educational research and scholarship – methods for designing and critiquing education research, evidence‑based practice and scholarship of teaching and learning.
• Simulation and digital learning – design and facilitation of simulation activities, blended and online learning pedagogies.
• Interprofessional and clinical education – strategies for interprofessional learning, clinical supervision and mentoring.
• Leadership and change in education – managing educational programs, policy, workforce development and quality improvement.

Study is delivered fully online through a combination of interactive units, applied assessments and a major project or capstone that requires demonstration of educational design and evaluation in a real or simulated clinical education context. The course offers flexibility for part‑time study and may include elective choices to tailor the program to specific interests.

Entry requirements

Eligible applicants generally hold an undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a health or allied health discipline or teaching, together with relevant professional experience. Accredited health professionals with substantial clinical or educational experience but without a relevant degree may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

• Undergraduate degree in a relevant field (health, nursing, allied health, medicine, or education) or equivalent professional experience.
• Current professional registration or demonstrated clinical practice experience is typically expected for clinical applicants.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must meet Australian Catholic University’s English language requirements for postgraduate coursework.
• Some applicants may be asked to provide a statement of purpose, evidence of workplace support for practicum‑style projects, or referee reports.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in education across clinical, community and academic settings. Typical career paths include:

• Clinical educator or nurse educator in hospitals and health services
• Simulation educator or coordinator
• Curriculum developer and assessment specialist in tertiary institutions or professional bodies
• Academic staff or teaching fellow in health faculties
• Workforce development and professional development coordinator within health organisations

The qualification also provides a foundation for further study at doctoral level for those interested in education research, policy or senior academic leadership.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University has a strong reputation in health and education and emphasises practice‑informed teaching designed for the needs of contemporary health workforces. The online Master of Health Professional Education draws on ACU’s cross‑disciplinary expertise, linking educational theory with clinical practice and offering access to experienced academic staff and clinician educators.

• Practice‑focused curriculum that aligns with the needs of hospitals, community services and tertiary education providers.
• Flexible online delivery suited to working professionals, with applied assessments and a capstone project.
• Connection to professional networks and opportunities to apply learning directly in workplace contexts.
• Pathways to further research or higher degrees for those pursuing academic or policy roles.