Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This program combines core initial teacher education subjects for primary teaching with focused coursework in religious education. Core topics cover child development, curriculum planning for the primary years, pedagogical strategies for literacy and numeracy, assessment and reporting, classroom management, inclusivity and special educational needs, and professional practice in schools.

The Graduate Certificate in Religious Education component focuses on theology and scripture foundations for Catholic schooling, pedagogies for religious education, sacramental and liturgical dimensions of school life, and approaches to faith formation and pastoral care. The course emphasises contemporary approaches to teaching religious education alongside intercultural and interfaith awareness.

Professional experience is embedded across the program through multiple supervised placements in primary schools. These placements provide practical experience in classroom teaching, curriculum implementation and professional collaboration with mentor teachers and school leaders.

• Curriculum and pedagogy for primary years
• Literacy and numeracy teaching methods
• Assessment, reporting and data-informed practice
• Inclusive education and differentiation
• Classroom management and student wellbeing
• Theology, scripture and faith formation in Catholic schools
• Pedagogies specific to religious education
• Supervised professional experience in primary schools

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold an undergraduate degree from a recognised institution. Preference is generally given to applicants with a degree in education or a cognate discipline, but graduates from other fields may be admitted subject to additional requirements or bridging coursework. Candidates must satisfy any institutional academic thresholds and provide evidence of suitability for professional practice.

Additional requirements typically include English language proficiency for international applicants, a valid background check or Working With Children check as required by state or national authorities, and clearance for professional placements. Some applicants may also be asked to attend an interview or submit a personal statement and referee reports demonstrating communication skills, commitment to working with children and alignment with the ethical expectations of the teaching profession.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to seek teacher registration and employment as primary classroom teachers across government and non-government (including Catholic systemic and independent) schools, subject to meeting local teacher registration requirements. The embedded Graduate Certificate in Religious Education prepares graduates particularly for roles in Catholic schooling systems, including positions as religious education coordinators, classroom teachers with responsibility for RE programs, and pastoral care roles.

With experience, graduates can progress to leadership roles such as curriculum coordinator, deputy or principal roles, or move into curriculum development, teacher education, diocesan or parish education roles. The degree also provides a pathway to further postgraduate study and research in education, theology or leadership.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University has a long-standing focus on teacher education and strong links with Catholic and systemic school sectors, offering extensive professional placement networks and partnerships. The university integrates contemporary research in pedagogy with a values-based approach to education, supporting graduates to work effectively in diverse classrooms.

Students benefit from staff with experience across education and theology, tailored support for professional experience, and opportunities to engage with communities and schools that reflect the Catholic tradition while respecting pluralism. The program is designed to meet professional accreditation expectations and to prepare graduates for the practical realities of contemporary primary teaching and religious education leadership.