Curtin University
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
Switch careers to primary teaching in just one year with this intensive postgraduate diploma combining theory and hands-on classroom experience. Designed for graduates seeking to teach Years 1-6 in Australian primary schools, this program provides the Initial Teacher Education qualification needed to register as a teacher in Western Australia.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor degree or equivalent from a recognised tertiary institution with studies equivalent to at least one year full-time in an area relevant to primary curriculum learning areas. Higher English language proficiency is required: IELTS Academic overall score of 7.5 (minimum 7 in Writing and Reading, minimum 8 in Speaking and Listening). Students must obtain current Working with Children clearance and meet state-specific requirements before professional experience placements. The course is restricted to Western Australia; students in NSW, Victoria, or South Australia should consider the Master of Teaching program instead.
The program consists of 8 core subjects structured across four study periods. Study Period 1 covers Primary Professional Experience 1: Planning for Writing and Theories of Development and Learning. Study Period 2 includes Teaching Science in the Primary Years and Primary Professional Experience 2: Assessment and Reporting. Study Period 3 encompasses Introduction to English: Reading and Professional Experience 3: Using Data to Inform Teaching and Learning. Study Period 4 covers Teaching Number, Algebra and Probability in the Primary Years and Creative Technologies. All subjects integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application, with three compulsory professional experience block placements totalling 45 days across different school contexts.
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 combines extensive industry connections with a vibrant culture of innovation, ensuring graduates receive contemporary teacher education aligned with 21st century learning needs.
Graduates qualify to teach in primary schools (Years 1-6) across Western Australia and can apply for mutual recognition in other states and territories. The qualification provides a pathway to further postgraduate study, with graduates able to articulate into the Master of Teaching program. Primary School Teachers in Australia earn between $93,000 and $120,000 annually, with employment projected to grow by 4.7%. This credential opens opportunities for career progression into leadership roles, specialist teaching positions, or further educational qualifications.
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