Graduate Certificate in Education

The Graduate Certificate in Education is a postgraduate course designed for educators and professionals seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in a specific area of education. The course is offered by the Australian Catholic University (ACU) and is available online with a duration of 6 months full-time or equivalent part-time.

Course Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Education aims to provide students with advanced knowledge and understanding of educational disciplines, enabling them to deepen their expertise in a specialisation area. The course is open to teachers and other professionals engaged in lead educational roles, such as education administrators, researchers, policymakers, school wellbeing leaders, psychologists, members of the defence forces, youth ministers, and family/parish educators.

Specialisations

The Graduate Certificate in Education offers several specialisations, including:

• Gifted Education
• Highly Accomplished/Lead Educational Practice (not offered in 2026)
• Inclusive Practice
• Literacy: Primary and Secondary Language and Multiliteracies (not offered in 2026)
• Literacy: Teaching Foundational Reading Skills
• Literacy: Teaching Fluency, Comprehension and Writing (not offered in 2026)
• Research Methods (not offered in 2026)
• School Psychology (not offered in 2026)
• STEM (not offered in 2026)
• Wellbeing

Course Structure

To complete the Graduate Certificate in Education, students must complete 40 credit points. The course structure includes specialisation units and elective units. Students can choose to complete the course with or without a named specialisation. Named specialisations are only available in part-time mode and have a duration of one year.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Education can pursue careers in various fields, including:

• Teachers
• Youth development workers
• Pastoral care workers
• School counsellors
• Learning support teachers

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the course, applicants must have completed a Bachelor's degree. International applicants must also meet the English language proficiency requirements as defined in the Admission to Coursework Programs Policy.

Fees

The average first-year fee for the Graduate Certificate in Education is $2368 (CSP). The University reviews fees annually, and students should check the current course costs and domestic tuition fee rates by unit.

Pathways

Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Education may progress to Master's by coursework.

Staff Profile

The course is taught by experienced academics, including Professor Amanda Telford, Head of Discipline Postgraduate Education, and Dr Paul Kidson, Course Coordinator.

Inherent Requirements

There are essential components of the course that demonstrate the capabilities, knowledge, and skills to achieve the core learning outcomes. Students must be able to meet these inherent requirements to complete the course.

AQF Framework

The Graduate Certificate in Education is an AQF Level 8 course.

Additional Course Information

Police checks and/or Working with Children Checks (or equivalent) may be required prior to the TESOL practicum.

Australian Catholic University (ACU)

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Overview:

Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a leading Catholic university in Australia, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It is known for its strong commitment to faith and values, fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

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Services Offered:

ACU provides a comprehensive range of student services, including:

Academic Skills Development:

The Academic Skills Unit offers support in developing essential study skills, academic writing, referencing, maths and numeracy, and exam preparation.

Campus Ministry:

Provides spiritual guidance and support to students.

Career Development Services:

Offers career advice, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Connect2Uni:

Provides support and resources for first-year students.

Counselling Services:

Offers confidential counselling and support for students' mental health and wellbeing.

Disability Support:

Provides tailored support for students with disabilities.

Medical Centres:

Offers healthcare services on campus.

Student Advocacy:

Provides support and guidance to students facing academic or personal challenges.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student Services:

Offers dedicated support and resources for Indigenous students.

Student Veterans Support Program:

Provides support and resources for students who have served in the military.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

ACU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience, with opportunities for students to:

Join clubs and societies:

Participate in a wide range of clubs and societies catering to diverse interests.

Engage in creative and cultural activities:

Participate in various events and activities, including arts, music, and theatre.

Develop leadership skills:

Take advantage of leadership opportunities within clubs, societies, and student associations.

Participate in ACU Sport:

Access gyms, fitness classes, and sports facilities, and join sports clubs and activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Catholic values and ethics:

ACU's commitment to faith and values creates a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Comprehensive student services:

Provides a wide range of support services to help students succeed.

Vibrant campus life:

Offers a diverse range of clubs, activities, and events to enhance the student experience.

Focus on practical skills and real-world application:

Emphasizes the development of practical skills and knowledge relevant to future careers.

Strong reputation and rankings:

ACU is consistently ranked among the top universities in Australia.

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Academic Programs:

ACU offers a wide range of academic programs across its four faculties:

Faculty of Education and Arts:

Offers programs in education, arts, humanities, and social sciences.

Faculty of Health Sciences:

Offers programs in nursing, medicine, psychology, and allied health.

Faculty of Law and Business:

Offers programs in law, business, and economics.

Faculty of Theology and Philosophy:

Offers programs in theology, philosophy, and religious studies.

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Other:

ACU has campuses located in Ballarat, Blacktown, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, North Sydney, Rome, and Strathfield. It also offers a range of online programs through ACU Online.