Program Overview

Australian Catholic University Program Details

The Australian Catholic University (ACU) offers a range of programs for students. Below are the details of one such program.

Program Overview

Unit Rationale, Description, and Aim

The program "THCT610 - Australian Catholic History and Identity" explores the history of Catholicism in Australia. It delves into significant aspects such as the development of Catholic education systems and the intersection of Catholicism and politics during crucial times.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing this unit, students will be able to:

• Discuss and evaluate major events and themes in Australian Catholic history.
• Critically analyze primary and secondary sources and reflect on them as historical evidence.
• Undertake an extended research task involving locating primary source material on an aspect of Australian Catholic history and analyzing its relevance to today.

Content

Topics covered include:

• The study of Australian Catholic history: sources and different interpretations
• The foundation of the Catholic Church in Australia
• The development of Catholic schools and religious congregations
• The Church and Indigenous Australians
• Sectarianism before and after World War I and the controversy over military conscription
• World War II, anti-communism, and the ALP schism
• Post-war migration and shifts in spirituality
• The impact of the Second Vatican Council on Australian Catholicism
• Change and continuity in the Catholic Church in the late twentieth century

Assessment Strategy and Rationale

The assessment strategy is designed to help students develop skills in historical research and demonstrate their achievement of the unit learning outcomes. Assessments include:

• A short written task evaluating a primary source from the nineteenth century
• An oral or written presentation outlining a research proposal and annotated bibliography
• A research essay demonstrating that the student has met all the unit learning outcomes

Learning and Teaching Strategy and Rationale

This unit is offered in intensive or online modes, emphasizing student-centered learning with consideration of how the learning content applies to the students' own context.

Representative Texts and References

Several texts are recommended for this unit, including works by Boland, Breward, Campion, Duncan, Massam, Niall, O'Farrell, Ormerod, O'Sullivan, and Turner.

Credit Points and Year

This unit is worth 10 credit points and is available in the year 2026.

Admission and Fees

Details regarding admission criteria and tuition fees are not specified in the provided context. However, it is recommended to consult the official Australian Catholic University website or contact their admissions office for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Research Areas

The program focuses on Australian Catholic history and identity, covering a broad range of historical events, themes, and their contemporary relevance.

Conclusion

The "THCT610 - Australian Catholic History and Identity" program at the Australian Catholic University offers a comprehensive exploration of the history of Catholicism in Australia, equipping students with critical research and analytical skills. For detailed information on admission, fees, and specific program requirements, prospective students should consult the university's official resources.