Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The Master of Religious Education combines theological study with contemporary approaches to pedagogy, curriculum design and faith formation. You will engage with core areas such as scripture and theology, the history and philosophy of religious education, contemporary issues in religion and society, and methods for teaching religion across primary, secondary and adult contexts.

• Foundations of Theology and Scripture – study key biblical texts, Christian doctrines and theological approaches that inform religious education.
• Religious Education Pedagogy – examine teaching and learning theories, classroom strategies, assessment for learning and inclusive practice specific to religious education.
• Curriculum Design and Leadership – develop skills in designing religion curricula, policy interpretation and leading religious education programs in schools and community settings.
• Faith Formation and Pastoral Practice – explore approaches to faith development, sacramental preparation, sacramental life in schools and parish-based catechesis.
• Research Methods in Religious Education – grounded training in qualitative and quantitative methods, reflective practice and project design, preparing students for applied research or a major research project.
• Specialist Electives and Contextual Studies – options may include interreligious education, ethics and social justice, spirituality, digital literacies in religious education and contemporary issues such as secularisation and pluralism.
• Practicum/Professional Project – a placement or capstone project that applies theory to practice in a school, parish or community education setting, reflecting the programme’s professional emphasis.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically require an undergraduate degree in education, theology, arts or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience in ministry or education. Candidates who are registered teachers or who hold a recognised teaching qualification are well placed to undertake this degree; applicants without a teaching background may be required to demonstrate relevant experience or complete bridging studies. All applicants must meet the university’s general admission requirements and language proficiency standards; international applicants will need to satisfy English language competency as specified by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across Catholic and other faith-based schools, parishes and community organisations. Typical career pathways include:

• Religious education teacher in primary and secondary schools (noting that classroom teaching roles may require teacher registration with the relevant state or territory authority).
• Religious education coordinator or curriculum leader within schools.
• School chaplaincy, youth ministry and parish education roles.
• Diocesan education officer, curriculum developer or policy advisor for faith-based education systems.
• Adult faith formation leader, catechetical coordinator and pastoral education roles in community settings.
• Further research and academic study, including doctoral research in theology, religious education or related fields.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University has a long-standing engagement with Catholic schools and communities across Australia, offering programmes that balance rigorous theological study with practical professional formation. The university’s connections with diocesan education offices and Catholic school systems provide opportunities for workplace placements, professional networking and applied projects. Courses are delivered by staff with experience in education, theology and pastoral ministry, and flexible study options (including on-campus and distance delivery) make the programme accessible to practising professionals. The programme emphasises research-informed practice and ethical leadership, preparing graduates to contribute thoughtfully to religious education in plural and changing contexts.