Charles Sturt University

What you'll study

The program covers foundational and advanced topics in teaching and learning for kindergarten to Year 12. You will study child and adolescent development, curriculum and assessment design across learning areas, classroom management, inclusive and special needs education, and the use of digital technologies in teaching. Coursework typically includes units on assessment and feedback, literacy and numeracy strategies, behaviour and wellbeing, Indigenous perspectives in education, and professional ethics.

Practical professional experience is a central component: you undertake multiple school placements across primary and secondary settings to apply theory in real classrooms, observe diverse teaching contexts and develop classroom practice. The course usually concludes with a capstone or practicum sequence that integrates curriculum planning, assessment and reflective practice.

• Core pedagogical studies: learning theory, lesson planning, assessment and reporting
• Curriculum areas: approaches to literacy, numeracy and cross-curricular teaching
• Inclusive education: differentiated instruction, special and additional needs, cultural responsiveness
• Professional practice: sequential school placements, classroom observation, professional reflection
• Education technologies: ICT for learning, remote and blended teaching strategies

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need an Australian senior secondary certificate or recognised equivalent; entry may be via an ATAR, alternative tertiary admission pathways, or prior study and experience. Mature-age applicants and those with relevant work or community experience are encouraged to apply through special entry pathways. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Because the degree prepares you for work with children, offers of places are conditional on meeting professional suitability checks, which commonly include a working with children check, national police history check and evidence of required immunisations. Some campuses or units may require additional clearances or background checks before placement in schools.

Career prospects

Graduates are qualified to seek teacher registration and employment as classroom teachers across early childhood, primary and secondary year levels, depending on the subjects and streams studied. Career pathways include classroom teaching in public, independent and Catholic schools, roles in curriculum coordination, special education support, behaviour and wellbeing coordination, and educational leadership in schools.

With further study or experience, graduates may move into senior leadership, curriculum development, teacher education, policy roles or specialist positions such as literacy consultant, special needs teacher, or e-learning coordinator. The program also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in areas such as educational leadership, special education or curriculum studies.

Why study at Charles Sturt University

Charles Sturt is known for strong links with regional and rural schools, which gives students varied and authentic placement opportunities across diverse communities. The university offers flexible study options, including on-campus and online delivery, making it accessible to students in different locations.

The education programs emphasise practical skill development, culturally responsive practice including Indigenous perspectives, and preparation for teaching in regional and remote contexts. Students benefit from experienced academic staff, dedicated placement support, and facilities designed to mirror current classroom technologies and practices. Successful graduates are supported toward professional teacher registration and employment through industry partnerships and career services.