Bachelor of Education (Secondary Arts) (CRICOS course code 029635D) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by University of New England over 4 years 1 month (~212 weeks). This program prepares you to teach visual arts, drama, music, or media arts in secondary schools across Australia and internationally. University of New England (CRICOS 00003G) is a government-funded university based in Armidale, NSW, with a strong reputation for distance education and regional impact. As a CRICOS-registered provider, UNE is authorised to enrol international students and complies with the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights and tuition protection. This course offers dual qualifications, meaning you graduate with both a teaching degree and eligibility to apply for teacher registration in Australia. With a work-integrated learning component and a focus on practical classroom skills, it's designed for aspiring educators who want a hands-on, accredited pathway into secondary teaching.
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As part of the Society and Culture field (Field of Education 090000), this Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) develops your expertise in secondary arts education. You'll explore curriculum design, pedagogical approaches, and assessment strategies specific to the creative arts. Core subjects include educational psychology, inclusive teaching practices, and professional ethics. In your arts specialisation, you'll engage with contemporary art theory, studio practice, and digital media. The program also covers Australian teaching standards and the Australian Curriculum. Graduates are equipped to foster creativity, critical thinking, and cultural appreciation in secondary students. Note: this is a general overview; the exact subjects are set by University of New England and may vary.
The course runs for 4 years 1 month (~212 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. Importantly, this is a dual qualification — you graduate with both a Bachelor of Education (Secondary Arts) and a Bachelor of Arts in a related discipline, streamlining your path to teacher registration. This integrated structure means you study both education and arts content concurrently. The program is offered on-campus at the Armidale campus, though UNE also offers flexible study options for domestic students. International students must maintain full-time enrolment consistent with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
Tuition fees are indicative and set by University of New England. According to the CRICOS register as at April 2026, the total tuition for this course is A$121,920. Non-tuition fees (such as materials, uniforms, or field trips) are estimated at A$5,000, bringing the approximate total to A$126,920. These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For up-to-date fees and a full fee schedule, always visit the UNE website directly. Fees are subject to change and should be confirmed at the time of application.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (specific bands may vary by institution). You must have completed an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent, with prerequisite subjects in English and sometimes mathematics. Meeting the minimum English and academic requirements does not guarantee admission; UNE may have competitive selection. Foundation or pathway programs are available through UNE's pathway partners or other CRICOS-registered providers. Always check the official UNE website for the most current entry requirements, as they can change.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks at 40 hours per week (approximately 800 total hours). This work-integrated learning involves supervised professional experience in secondary schools, such as teaching practicums or internships. You'll apply theory in real classrooms under the guidance of experienced teachers. This placement is a critical part of meeting the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers and is required for graduation and subsequent teacher registration.
This course is delivered at University of New England's main campus in Armidale, NSW. Armidale is a regional city in the New England region, known for its educational institutions and student community. The city has a population of around 24,000, with a significant student population. Living costs in Armidale are generally lower than in capital cities: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $250–$350, groceries around $100–$150, and public transport is limited but a campus bus service operates. Armidale is accessible by bus and air from Sydney and Brisbane.
To study this course in Australia, you'll need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, OSHC, and dependents, and maintaining adequate health cover. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your visa. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for the latest requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised guidance.
Applying for this course involves three key steps:
**1. Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. University of New England (CRICOS 00003G) is a registered provider for this course.
**2. Apply directly to University of New England** — Submit your application through the UNE international admissions portal. Ensure you meet the entry requirements (academic qualifications, English language proficiency) and provide all necessary documents. Check application deadlines — UNE has two intakes per year (February and July).
**3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** — Once accepted, UNE will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Include your OSHC coverage and evidence of financial capacity.
Armidale offers a unique study experience: a tight-knit community, lower cost of living, and a focus on education. It's home to several CRICOS-registered providers. However, it's remote — the nearest major city is 5 hours by car. Consider your lifestyle preferences: do you want a campus-based experience in a regional setting, or a metropolitan city? Armidale has limited nightlife but strong cultural offerings, including the New England Regional Art Museum. Public transport within town is limited, but the university provides shuttle services. For a teaching career, regional placements may enhance your understanding of diverse school settings. Think about your career goals and personal adaptability.
Ready to become a secondary arts teacher? Explore this course on UNE's website and start your application today.
Bachelor of Education (Secondary Arts) is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of New England. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.