Program Overview

Graduate Certificate in Education

The Graduate Certificate in Education is a 100% online course designed to enhance the skillset, knowledge, and leadership capability of educators. This course aims to promote a nurturing educational environment, support students from diverse backgrounds, and foster a culture of inclusion.

About this Course

This course is intended for practising teachers, school leaders, and other professionals working in fields of education. It focuses on developing professional identity as an educator, demonstrating confidence in STEM concepts, and recognising the value of each unique learner. The course also covers leadership frameworks, values, and strategies to promote a nurturing educational environment.

Career Opportunities

Upon completion of this course, graduates can explore various roles across the education sector, including:

• Assistant Principal
• Instructional Leader
• Curriculum Coordinator or Specialist
• Deputy Principal
• Early Childhood Director
• Executive Teacher
• Education Assessment Specialist
• Executive Principal
• Head of Department or Faculty
• School Leader
• School Policy Adviser or Developer
• Student Wellbeing Manager
• Year Adviser

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for this course, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

• Current registration as a teacher at proficient level or higher with an Australian regulatory authority
• A three-year undergraduate degree in Education or a relevant field, with at least three years of full-time equivalent professional experience in education
• Graduate or post-graduate education qualifications as approved by the University of Canberra

Assumed Knowledge

This course assumes a familiarity with Australian educational contexts, including schooling contexts. There is no specific assumed knowledge required.

Course Requirements

The Graduate Certificate in Education requires the completion of 12 credit points from the following units:

• STEM Pedagogy G (11965)
• STEM and Design Thinking G (11966)
• Spatial Thinking G (11967)
• STEM Practices and Learning Opportunities G (11968)
• Leadership and Change in Education G (11969)
• Leading Learning, Teaching and Curriculum G (11970)
• Leading and Developing Educators G (11971)
• Educational Management and Administration G (11972)

Course Duration

The standard duration for this course is 8 months (4 Study Blocks), with a maximum duration of 3 years from the date of enrolment to the date of course completion.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge and confidence in STEM concepts beyond traditional discipline knowledge
• Exhibit advanced STEM theoretical knowledge and practical skills
• Develop professional identity as an educator and educational leader through advanced leadership theories and practices
• Develop their own and others' capacity to enhance educational outcomes for all, including equity groups

Awards

The official abbreviation for this course is GradCertEd.

Honours

There are no honours available for this course.

Course Information

• The course is delivered 100% online, allowing students to balance full-time work while developing their professionalism as teachers.
• The course is designed to contribute to continuing professional development (CPD) or mandatory training hours.
• Intakes occur every two months, and students receive dedicated support from their Student Success Adviser as they study one unit at a time, online and accelerated.

Fees

The fees for this course are as follows:

• Per Unit: $2,887.5 (2025), $2,950 (2026)
• Full Course: The final fee charged is based on the proportion of 24 credit points in which a student enrols.
• Annual Fee Rates: The fees shown are the annual fee rates for the course, which applies to standard full-time enrolment (24 credit points).
• Commonwealth Support Place (CSP): Students enrolled in a CSP are required to make a contribution towards the cost of their education, set by the Commonwealth Government.

English Language Requirements

An IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with no band score below 6.0 (or equivalent), is required for this course.

Delivery Mode

The course is delivered online, with no requirement for on-campus attendance.

Location

All course material is developed and delivered via the University of Canberra, with online units available from anywhere in Australia.

Selection Rank

The selection rank is the minimum ATAR plus adjustment factors required for admission to the program in the previous year. This is an indicative guide only, as ranks change each year depending on demand.

Credit Arrangements

There are currently no formal credit transfer arrangements for entry to this course. Any previous study or work experience will only be considered as part of the application process in accordance with current course rules and university policy.

Prior Work and Study Recognition

The University of Canberra recognises the value of experience. Students can unlock course credit or even get direct entry into a postgraduate degree by assessing their experience.

Inherent Requirements

In addition to course requirements, students must meet the inherent requirements to successfully complete their course. The inherent requirements statement applicable to this course can be found on the University of Canberra's website.

Typical Study Pattern

The typical study pattern for this course involves completing one unit at a time, online and accelerated, over a period of 8 months (4 Study Blocks).

Enquiries

For prospective students, please contact the University of Canberra via email or phone. For current and commencing students, please contact the University Student Centre via email or phone.