Master of Teaching (Secondary)/Graduate Certificate of Religious Education

Course Overview

Master of Teaching (Secondary)/Graduate Certificate of Religious Education (CRICOS course code 096831M) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 2 years 3 months (~117 weeks). This dual qualification program is designed for graduates who hold a bachelor degree in a relevant discipline and wish to become secondary school teachers with a specialisation in religious education. The course combines the Master of Teaching (Secondary), which provides the pedagogical skills and curriculum knowledge required for secondary teaching, with the Graduate Certificate of Religious Education, which deepens understanding of religious studies and theological education. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for teacher registration in Australia and are well-prepared to teach in both government and Catholic systemic schools. The program includes a substantial work-integrated learning component, ensuring students gain practical classroom experience. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) maintained by the Australian Government. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is subject to the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, providing legal protections for international students.

What You'll Study

This course falls under the broad field of education (07 - Education), specifically Teacher Education: Secondary (070105). At the Masters level (AQF Level 9), students engage with advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in teaching and learning, curriculum development, assessment strategies, and classroom management. The specialisation in religious education covers theological foundations, scripture, ethics, and religious pedagogy. Graduates develop skills to design and deliver engaging lessons, cater to diverse student needs, and integrate faith-based perspectives into secondary education. While the exact syllabus is set by Australian Catholic University, typical study themes include adolescent development, inclusive education, literacy and numeracy across the curriculum, and the role of religion in contemporary society. The dual qualification structure means students complete both graduate certificate and masters-level coursework, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of both general teaching and religious education principles.

Duration and Study Mode

The course duration is 2 years 3 months (~117 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and the program is offered as a full-time on-campus study mode. The dual qualification nature means students are enrolled concurrently in both the Master of Teaching (Secondary) and the Graduate Certificate of Religious Education, which together meet the blended duration. While the CRICOS register lists 117 weeks, the actual calendar duration may vary depending on academic calendars and breaks. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to meet student visa conditions. It is important to note that the program includes a mandatory work component that is integrated into the study schedule. For the most current information on study modes and timetables, consult Australian Catholic University directly.

Fees (Indicative)

Tuition fees for this course are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The total tuition fee is A$89,060, with no additional non-tuition fees listed (A$0). The estimated total cost for the course is therefore A$89,060. Please note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is compulsory for international students and varies by provider and coverage level. Living costs depend on your chosen city and lifestyle; for example, weekly rent in Brisbane can range from A$200 to A$400, while in Melbourne it may be A$250 to $500. Always confirm current fees with Australian Catholic University Limited before applying, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees only and recommends checking the provider's official website (www.acu.edu.au) for the most up-to-date figures.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

Entry requirements for this course are set by Australian Catholic University. Based on typical requirements for a Masters Degree (Coursework) in teacher education, prospective students generally need: a completed bachelor degree (AQF Level 7) in a relevant discipline with a specified minimum GPA; demonstrated English language proficiency, typically IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (with no band below 6.5 or 7.0 depending on component); and a personal statement or interview may be required. Since this is a dual qualification, applicants must also meet any additional prerequisites for the Graduate Certificate of Religious Education. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course but may be available through the provider. International students should check specific academic requirements, including any prerequisite subjects related to the intended teaching areas. As English proficiency is critical for teaching, higher scores may be needed. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Always refer to Australian Catholic University's official admissions page for detailed and current entry criteria.

Work Component

This course includes a mandatory work component totaling 42 weeks at 10 hours per week, approximately 420 hours in total. This is a work-integrated learning (WIL) component, which typically involves supervised professional experience placements in real secondary school classrooms. For this teaching qualification, the work component will include practical teaching rounds where students observe, assist, and eventually take on teaching responsibilities under the guidance of experienced supervising teachers. Placements may be arranged in both government and Catholic schools, providing diverse experiences. The work component is designed to bridge theory and practice, giving students the confidence and competence required for teacher registration. International students must ensure they have the necessary visas and clearances (such as Working with Children checks) to participate in placements. The CRICOS register lists this as a Yes for work component, confirming its integral role in the course structure.

Delivery Locations

This course is delivered at four Australian Catholic University campuses: Brisbane Campus in BANYO, Queensland; Canberra Campus in Watson, Australian Capital Territory; Melbourne Campus in FITZROY, Victoria; and Strathfield Campus in STRATHFIELD, New South Wales. Each campus offers the same curriculum but with local context. Brisbane (QLD) has a vibrant student population and over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 1,900 courses. Canberra (ACT) offers a compact academic environment with over 100 providers. Melbourne (VIC) hosts the largest international student community in Australia, with over 300 providers. Strathfield (NSW) is a suburban campus in Sydney, home to over 400 providers. Living costs vary: weekly rent in Brisbane is around A$250–$350, in Canberra A$350–$500, in Melbourne A$300–$450, and in Sydney A$400–$600. All campuses are accessible by public transport. Choose a location that aligns with your lifestyle and budget.

Student Visa Information

International students enrolling in this course need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian Catholic University (once you've accepted an offer and paid fees); genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence demonstrating your intention to study and return home; sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) — approximately A$21,041 per year living cost plus A$600–$700 annual OSHC; English proficiency test results meeting the university's requirement; and health insurance for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain enrolment in a full-time CRICOS-registered course and meet attendance requirements. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. For visa-specific advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.

How to Apply

Applying for the Master of Teaching (Secondary)/Graduate Certificate of Religious Education at Australian Catholic University follows a standard three-step process for international students: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers - Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Masters), field (Education), and location (choose from Banyo, Watson, Fitzroy, or Strathfield). Verify the provider's CRICOS code (00004G) and course code (096831M). Check entry requirements, including English language test scores and prior qualifications. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution - Visit Australian Catholic University's website (www.acu.edu.au) and submit an online application through their international admissions portal. Provide academic transcripts, English test results, personal statements, and any other required documents. Be mindful of application deadlines, which typically occur several months before the intake. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) - If your application is successful, ACU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a genuine student statement. Once your visa is granted, you can arrange travel and accommodation.

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