Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

The Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) is a professional, competency-based program that integrates curriculum studies, pedagogy, child development and substantial school-based professional experience. Core study areas typically include:

• Foundations of Teaching and Learning – educational theory, child and adolescent development, and the Australian curriculum framework.
• Early Childhood Pedagogy – play-based learning, early literacy and numeracy, transition to school and care environments.
• Primary Curriculum and Methodologies – subject-specific methods for literacy, mathematics, science, humanities and the arts at the primary level.
• Assessment, Differentiation and Inclusive Practice – formative and summative assessment, planning for diverse learners and students with additional needs.
• Classroom Management and Professional Practice – behaviour management, family and community engagement, and professional ethics.
• Research and Reflective Practice – action research, evidence-informed teaching and capstone projects that link theory to practice.

The Graduate Certificate in Religious Education delivered online complements the Master of Teaching by offering focused study in:

• Scripture, Theology and Church Traditions – biblical studies and the theological foundations of Catholic education.
• Religious Education Pedagogy – curriculum design for religious education, pedagogical approaches and sacramental preparation in school contexts.
• Faith Formation and Catholic Identity – faith development, pastoral dimensions of schooling and the role of religious education in school life.

Practicum placements are a core feature of the Master of Teaching. Students undertake multiple supervised placements in early childhood settings and primary schools, with increasing responsibility and structured assessment of professional practice.

Entry requirements

Typical entry to the Master of Teaching requires a recognised undergraduate degree in any discipline and evidence of academic suitability. Specific requirements commonly include:

• A completed bachelor degree (or equivalent) from a recognised institution.
• Sufficient academic record to demonstrate capacity for postgraduate study; some applicants may be assessed on a combination of prior study and professional experience.
• Demonstrated English language proficiency if previous study was not in English (academic test scores may be required).
• Clearance requirements for school-based placements, such as working-with-children/blue card and a national police check.
• Vaccination checks and compliance with host-school requirements for practicum attendance.

Admission to the Graduate Certificate in Religious Education online is usually available to degree holders and practising teachers who wish to add specialist religious education study to their qualifications. Credit may be available between the Graduate Certificate and the Master of Teaching depending on institution policy.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to apply for initial teacher registration and to teach in early childhood settings and primary schools. Common career pathways include:

• Early childhood teacher in long day care, preschool and early learning centres.
• Primary classroom teacher in government, Catholic and independent schools.
• Religious education coordinator, faith formation leader or sacramental program facilitator within Catholic school systems.
• Specialist roles such as literacy or numeracy coach, inclusion support teacher, and curriculum developer.
• Further postgraduate study leading to leadership, curriculum or research positions in education.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University combines a strong focus on professional teacher preparation with the Catholic intellectual tradition. The University places emphasis on ethical practice, social justice and pastoral care alongside rigorous classroom-ready training. ACU is known for close partnerships with Catholic and other school systems, which supports extensive and well-supported practicum experiences.

Students benefit from teacher education programs that emphasise reflective practice and research-informed teaching, access to specialist staff in early childhood and religious education, and flexible delivery options including online study for the Graduate Certificate. For those seeking employment in Catholic education, the program’s religious education components and institutional networks provide relevant preparation and connections.