Bachelor of Arts (Pathway to Teaching Secondary) (CRICOS course code 061013A) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Western Sydney University over 3 years. This course is designed for international students who aspire to become secondary school teachers in Australia. It combines a broad arts education with a pathway into secondary teaching, allowing you to develop expertise in a teaching specialisation while gaining foundational knowledge in society and culture. Western Sydney University (CRICOS 00917K) is a government-funded institution known for its strong emphasis on practical learning and community engagement. With campuses across Greater Sydney, including Bankstown, Parramatta, and Penrith, you'll have access to diverse learning environments and excellent support services. All information here is sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026, ensuring you receive accurate and up-to-date data.
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This course falls under the broad field of Society and Culture (090000), specifically 'Other Society and Culture' (099999). At the Bachelor Degree level (AQF Level 7), you will typically engage with interdisciplinary subjects that explore human behaviour, social structures, and cultural dynamics. The curriculum is designed to build critical thinking, research, and communication skills essential for teaching. While specific subjects are set by Western Sydney University, graduates often develop a deep understanding of how societies function, preparing them to teach subjects like history, geography, or social sciences in secondary schools. The pathway component ensures you meet the academic requirements for entry into a Master of Teaching or initial teacher education program, aligning with Australian standards for secondary teaching.
The course runs for 3 years full-time, equivalent to 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and it is a single qualification – no dual award or embedded VET component. This course does not include a foundation studies program; however, pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements. You should check with Western Sydney University for any preparatory or bridging courses.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$97,488 for the full 3-year program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$900, bringing the estimated total to A$98,388. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. All fees are set by Western Sydney University and are subject to change. Confirm current costs on their official website. As a general guide, international students in Sydney should budget approximately A$500–700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, though costs vary by lifestyle.
English language proficiency is required with an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5, and no band below 5.5–6.0 (specific bands depend on the provider's policy). You must also hold prior qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 12 certificate with suitable grades. Western Sydney University may consider foundation or diploma pathways for students who need additional academic preparation. Always check the provider's website for detailed entry criteria, as requirements can change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work is not part of the curriculum, but it can help with living costs and gaining local experience.
This course is delivered at three Western Sydney University campuses: Bankstown City (Bankstown, NSW), Parramatta (Parramatta, NSW), and Penrith (Kingswood, NSW). All are in Greater Sydney, Australia's largest city with over 5 million people. Parramatta is a major commercial centre with excellent train and bus links. Bankstown is a culturally diverse suburb with a vibrant community. Penrith is located in Western Sydney, offering a more relaxed lifestyle near the Blue Mountains. Each campus provides modern facilities, libraries, and student support services. Sydney has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, offering thousands of courses across all study levels.
To study this course in Australia, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. With a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All courses at CRICOS-registered providers, including this one, are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which ensures your rights as an international student. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to enrol? Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. This course is listed under Western Sydney University. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit the Western Sydney University website, check entry requirements (including English test scores and academic transcripts), and submit your application before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE, which you need to lodge your visa application. Prepare your documents, including OSHC evidence and financial statements. Remember, you must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) before travelling to Australia.
Western Sydney University is one of Australia's leading public universities, ranked among the top 2% globally. It has a strong reputation for teaching quality, research, and community engagement. With over 44,000 students, including many internationals, you'll join a diverse and inclusive community. The university offers dedicated support services for international students, including academic skills workshops, counselling, and career advice. Sydney itself is a world-class city with a high standard of living, excellent public transport, and a thriving cultural scene. Studying here gives you access to a dynamic job market and networking opportunities. All programs are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you receive a quality education protected by Australian law.
Ready to start your teaching journey in Australia? Follow the steps above or visit Western Sydney University's website for direct application details.
Bachelor of Arts (Pathway to Teaching Secondary) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney University. 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.