Curtin University
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
Switch careers to secondary teaching in just one year with this intensive postgraduate program combining educational theory and hands-on classroom experience. Ideal for career changers seeking to teach Years 7-12 in Australian secondary schools with specialization in your chosen subject area.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor degree or equivalent from a recognised tertiary institution with relevant studies to the teaching areas offered. You need discipline-specific study equivalent to at least three-quarters of a year of full-time study (six units minimum), with no more than two at first-year level and at least two at third-year level. Higher English language proficiency is required: IELTS Academic overall score of 7.5 with minimum 7 in Writing and Reading and minimum 8 in Speaking and Listening. You must obtain a current Working with Children clearance and meet any other relevant state requirements before professional experience placements. Entry based on work experience alone is not possible.
The program comprises 8 subjects total: six compulsory core subjects covering secondary education theory and practice, and two subjects from your approved major teaching area specialization. Core subjects focus on applying educational theory and research, developing pedagogical capabilities, creating positive learning environments, and professional communication with educational stakeholders. Teaching area specialization subjects provide discipline-specific knowledge in your chosen curriculum area (English, The Arts, Mathematics, Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, or Health and Physical Education). Three professional experience block placements are integrated throughout the degree, totaling 45 days of classroom teaching in registered schools to satisfy Western Australian teacher registration requirements.
Curtin University is a globally recognised institution ranked in the top one per cent of universities worldwide (QS World University Ranking 2026: 12th in Australia; Times Higher Education 2026: 18th in Australia). Through Open Universities Australia, Curtin delivers the same degree as on-campus study with an interactive and collaborative online learning experience. The university has extensive industry connections and a vibrant culture of innovation, ensuring graduates receive contemporary teacher education aligned with 21st-century learning needs.
Graduates are qualified to teach secondary students in Years 7-12 across Australian secondary schools in their chosen subject specialization. Secondary school teachers in Australia earn between $93,000 and $120,000 annually with employment projected to grow by 2.7%. Upon completion, graduates can articulate into Curtin's Master of Teaching program for further professional development. The qualification enables registration as a teacher in Western Australia and provides eligibility for mutual recognition in other Australian states and territories.
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