Overview
Overview
If you’re looking to switch careers, teaching is a rewarding option. As a teacher in Australia, you’ll be a facilitator of knowledge – fusing traditional teaching methods with innovative approaches. You'll use new technologies to pave the way for personalised educational experiences, catering to diverse learning styles and creating inclusive environments where students can actively engage in their learning.
Curtin’s one-year Graduate Diploma in Education is designed for people with existing degrees who want to become a teacher. You’ll choose to study either Primary Education or Secondary Education, depending on the year levels you wish to teach.
In this course, you’ll learn how to apply theory and research to improve learning experiences, create positive learning environments, and collaborate with others to build strong communities. You'll also get hands-on experience in real classrooms through three practical placements. This will enable you to develop skills such as managing diverse classrooms and using effective communication, and help prepare you for the ever-changing world of teaching.
This intensive course has been created to help address the shortage of teachers in Australia. After completing this course, you'll be eligible to register with the Teacher Registration Board Western Australia and become a teacher in WA. You may also apply to teach in other states and territories in Australia by seeking Mutual Recognition through the relevant registration body. The course structure of the Graduate Diploma in Education also allows a seamless transition into the Master of Teaching for those looking to further their education and become an accredited teacher.
Practical placements
In this course you’ll undertake 45 days of supervised practical placements, enabling you to apply your theoretical understanding and develop your practical skills. You’ll take your practical placements in the following way:
- Professional Experience 1 (10 days)
- Professional Experience 2 (15 days)
- Professional Experience 3 (20 days).
Special study periods
For those studying full-time, you’ll take two units during each study period. Unlike most courses that follow a two-semester structure, education students have four study periods per year. This unique setup allows you to study two units across each of these four study periods, enabling you to finish the entire course in just one year. The four study periods are:
- Special Study Period 1: Feb–May
- Special Study Period 2: May–August
- Special Study Period 3: August–November
- Special Study Period 4: November–February.
This course is also available to study part-time, which will extend the length of time it will take to complete the course.
Primary or secondary education
This course offers two majors:
The major you choose will determine the year levels you’ll be eligible to teach.
If you study Secondary Education through this course, you’ll only undertake a major teaching area, with no minor. If you wish to complete a minor as well, you can continue your studies through our accredited Master of Teaching program.
What you'll learn
- apply relevant theory and research to enhance the learning experiences and outcomes of learners from a diversity of backgrounds and of aspirations.
- apply high-level discipline knowledges and understandings to demonstrate pedagogical capabilities, including planning and delivering effective teaching and learning experiences in the technologically enhanced learning environment, with demonstrated impact for all learners.
- create and manage positive, safe and ethical learning environments that support a diversity of learners to engage in meaningful learning.
- communicate professionally with educational stakeholders, including colleagues, parents and carers, and engage collaboratively to build sustainable communities.
