Are you an international student dreaming of inspiring young minds as a primary school teacher in Australia? The Master of Teaching (Primary) (CRICOS course code 096250K) is a 2-year Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by the University of the Sunshine Coast (CRICOS 01595D). This program is designed to prepare graduates for rewarding careers in primary education, combining theoretical knowledge with practical teaching experience through a 12-week work placement. With an indicative total fee of A$63,000, this course offers a pathway to teacher registration in Australia. HeadStart Academy provides free, trusted information sourced directly from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Read on to learn about entry requirements, campus locations, student visa conditions, and how to apply.
Master of Teaching (Primary) (CRICOS course code 096250K) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by University of the Sunshine Coast over 2 years. This program is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government quality standards for international education. The course falls under the field of education 070103 – Teacher Education: Primary, which is within the broader discipline of Education (07). As a full-time, face-to-face program, it provides students with the essential skills and knowledge required to teach in primary school settings. University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) is a government-funded university and one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering international students a high-quality educational experience with full ESOS Act protections.
The Master of Teaching (Primary) is a graduate-level degree that prepares students for the teaching profession. While exact curriculum details are set by the provider, programs at this level typically cover key areas such as curriculum design and assessment, child development, classroom management, inclusive education practices, literacy and numeracy teaching strategies, and professional ethics in education. Students also engage in reflective practice and educational research to support evidence-based teaching. The field of Teacher Education: Primary focuses on preparing educators to teach children in their foundational years (usually Years Prep to 6). Graduates emerge with the ability to plan engaging lessons, differentiate instruction for diverse learners, and create safe, supportive classroom environments. This degree is a critical step toward gaining teacher registration in Australia.
According to the CRICOS register, the Master of Teaching (Primary) has a duration of 104 weeks (2 years) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and the course is delivered as a single qualification (no dual degree). It is a Masters Degree (Coursework) at AQF Level 9, equivalent to a structured master's program with coursework components. The study mode is typically on-campus, requiring attendance at USC's Queensland campuses. No foundation studies or VET pathways are integrated into this course. Students should expect a full-time commitment, with classes, assignments, and practical placements throughout the duration.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Teaching (Primary) is A$63,000 for the full program, as recorded on the CRICOS register with no separate non-tuition fees listed. The estimated total cost is A$63,000. Please note that these fees are set by University of the Sunshine Coast and are subject to change. Additional expenses not included in this figure are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). For example, living costs in Queensland can range from A$400 to A$700 per week depending on location and lifestyle. Always confirm current fees and other charges directly with the university at www.usc.edu.au.
International applicants should generally have an IELTS overall band score of 6.5 to 7.0 (or equivalent) as a minimum English language requirement. For this master's level, a completed bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) is typically required, often in a relevant discipline or with specific prerequisite subjects. Some institutions may also consider teaching aptitude tests or interviews. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course, but students who do not meet academic or English requirements may find bridging programs through the provider or other CRICOS-registered institutions. It is essential to check the exact entry requirements with University of the Sunshine Coast, as they may vary and are subject to change. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider's international admissions team for detailed information.
Yes, the Master of Teaching (Primary) includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks (480 hours total, based on 40 hours per week). This is a form of work-integrated learning (WIL) that typically involves supervised teaching placements in Australian primary schools. Students gain hands-on classroom experience under the guidance of experienced teachers, applying theoretical knowledge in real educational settings. This practical component is integral to meeting Australian professional teaching standards is a requirement for teacher registration. Students are responsible for arranging their own transport to placement schools, but USC's connections with local schools help facilitate suitable placements.
This course is delivered at two University of the Sunshine Coast campuses: - UniSC Moreton Bay, located in Petrie (Greater Brisbane area, Queensland) - UniSC Sunshine Coast, located in Sippy Downs (Sunshine Coast, Queensland) Both campuses are situated in South East Queensland, a region with a vibrant international student community. Queensland is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a significant student population, with living costs typically lower than Sydney or Melbourne. The Sunshine Coast offers a relaxed lifestyle with beautiful beaches, while the Moreton Bay campus is well-connected by public transport to Brisbane's city centre. Students at either location can access modern learning facilities, libraries, and student support services.
International students who enrol in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and limited work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and provide evidence of financial capacity (including tuition, living costs, and OSHC). Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the entire visa duration. All CRICOS-registered providers comply with the ESOS Act, which protects international students' tuition fees and ensures quality education. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for the Master of Teaching (Primary) involves three straightforward steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that University of the Sunshine Coast (CRICOS 01595D) meets your criteria. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Prepare your application including academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and any additional documents required by USC. Check application deadlines and submit through the university's online portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once USC issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and demonstrate sufficient funds.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Master of Teaching (Primary) at University of the Sunshine Coast and start your teaching career in Australia.
Master of Teaching (Primary) is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of the Sunshine Coast. 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.