Bachelor of Education (Secondary) / Bachelor of Arts | UniSC | University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

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Bachelor of Education (Secondary) / Arts

Inspire a love of the arts through teaching. Specialise in two teaching areas such as English, geography, history, drama, Japanese, music, screen media, psychology, biology, chemistry or mathematics. You will study how to plan lessons, assess students, and manage a classroom of students in Years 7-12.

In this program you will:

  • Complete 80 days of supervised teaching in local schools (and in rural and remote setting if desired)
  • Gain curriculum and pedagogy knowledge and skills in two teaching areas
  • Learn how to plan lessons, assess students, and manage a classroom
  • Be provided the opportunity to experience different school settings and learners by taking a trip to rural and remote areas
  • Attend professional development seminars to enhance your professional knowledge
  • Gain eligibility to become a member of the Queensland College of Teachers

Commonwealth Teaching Scholarships available from 2024

The Australian Government is providing financial support for initial teacher education (ITE) students commencing full-time teaching degrees from 2024. Receive $10,000 per year of study for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Applications for round one now open

Location

CRICOS code

082693J

Entry threshold

68.00 68.00 ATAR/Rank
ATAR/Rank

Duration

4 years 4 years Full-time or equivalent part-time Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.
Full-time or equivalent part-time Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.

Indicative fees

Indicative 2025 fees (A$)

A$9,848 - 2025 Fees CSP
CSP
A$26,750 Annual fee
Annual fee

QTAC code

017221 014221^

Start

  • Semester 1
  • Semester 2
  • Semester 1
  • Semester 2
Limited Major and Minor options available at UniSC Moreton Bay.

Career opportunities

  • Community education centres
  • Education consultant
  • Education policy analyst
  • Private practice tutor
  • Secondary school teacher
  • Teacher of English overseas
  • Youth support worker

Memberships

Graduates may be eligible to become members of:

  • Queensland College of Teachers

Start
  • Semester 1
  • Semester 2
  • Semester 1
  • Semester 2
Delivery mode
  • Blended Learning
Total courses
32
Total units
384
Duration
4 years 4 years
CRICOS code
082693J
UniSC program code
AE304
Program coordinator
Program structure
Introductory courses (3) 36 units

EDU101 Human Development and Learning
EDU114 Professional Experience: Orientation to the Profession
EDU119 English Language and Literacy

Required course from a specified list

Select a total of 12 units. Students that have registered the Biological Sciences extended minor or Psychological Sciences extended minor MUST select SCI110.

SCI110 Science Research Methods
EDU118 Foundations of Numeracy

Developing courses (1) 12 units

SCS203 Introduction to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education

Graduate courses (9) 108 units

EDU300 Assessing Learning
EDU328 Professional Experience: Managing Learning Environments
EDU410 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Perspectives in Learning and Teaching
EDU412 Diversity and Inclusion
EDU415 Teacher as Researcher
EDU417 Literacy and Numeracy Across the Curriculum
EDU424 Professional Experience: Individual Learner Needs
EDU426 Professional Experience: The Professional Teacher
EDU427 Pedagogical and Curriculum Leadership in the Classroom

Required courses from a specified list (4) 48 units

Select 48 units of curriculum and pedagogy courses related to your major and extended minor from:

EDU337 Teaching Junior Secondary Arts
EDU338 Teaching Senior Secondary Arts 1
EDU347 Teaching Junior Secondary English
EDU348 Teaching Senior Secondary English
EDU352 Teaching Junior Secondary Science 1
EDU353 Teaching Senior Secondary Science 1
EDU356 Teaching Junior Secondary Geography
EDU357 Teaching Senior Secondary Geography
EDU358 Teaching Junior Secondary History
EDU359 Teaching Senior Secondary History
EDU363 Teaching Junior Secondary Mathematics
EDU364 Teaching Senior Secondary Mathematics
EDU375 Teaching Senior Secondary Psychology
EDU376 Teaching Junior Secondary Arts 2
EDU377 Teaching Senior Secondary Arts 2
EDU378 Teaching Junior Secondary Languages
EDU379 Teaching Senior Secondary Languages

Major courses (8) 96 units #

Select 1 major from:

English
Geography
History
Japanese Studies^
Screen Media
Theatre and Performance^

Extended Minor courses (6) 72 units*

Select 1 extended minor from:

Biological Sciences
Chemical Sciences
English Studies
Geography
History Studies
Japanese Studies Δ^
Mathematical Sciences
Music Studies#
Psychological Sciences Δ
Screen Media Studies
Theatre and Performance Studies Δ^

# The following combinations of teaching areas will take longer than four years to complete and students will need an additional semester to finish: Japanese Studies Major with any of the extended minors; Japanese Studies Extended Minor and Psychological Sciences Extended Minor with any of the majors; English Major and Biological Sciences Extended Minor (Semester 2 entry); History Major and Biological Sciences Extended Minor (Semester 2 entry)
These combinations are NOT available for international students.

* The minor must be chosen from a different discipline area to the major.

Δ The Japanese Studies Extended Minor and the Psychological Sciences Extended Minor are only available for students admitted in the program in Semester 1.

^ The following teaching areas are not available at UniSC Moreton Bay: Japanese, Music, Theatre and Performance.
Note: Program structures are subject to change. Not all UniSC courses are available on every UniSC campus.

Program requirements

In order to graduate you must:

  • Successfully complete 384 units as outlined in the Program Structure
  • Complete 80 days of supervised professional experience, completed as full-time blocks, most of which must be completed in Queensland schools.

  • Successfully complete the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education students. Further information on the test, including sample test questions and registration information, please visit the Australian Council of Educational Research website
  • Professional Experience courses (EDU328, EDU424, EDU426) should not be completed in the same semester as a course from a major or extended minor. All courses studied concurrently with a Professional Experience course should be EDU coded
Program notes
  • The following combinations of teaching areas will take longer than four years to complete and students will need an additional semester to finish. These combinations are NOT available for international students:
    • Japanese Studies Major with any of the extended minors,
    • Japanese Studies Extended Minor and Psychological Sciences Extended Minor with any of the majors,
    • English Major and Biological Sciences Extended Minor (Semester 2 entry)
    • History Major and Biological Sciences Extended Minor (Semester 2 entry)
    • The Japanese Studies Extended Minor and the Psychological Sciences Extended Minor are only available for students admitted in the program in Semester 1.
  • Students undertaking Psychological Sciences Extended Minor or the Biological Sciences Extended Minor must choose SCI110 to satisfy the pre-requisite requirements of courses within the Extended Minor
  • Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per semester (normally 4 courses) and following the recommended study sequence
  • The unit value of all courses is 12 units unless otherwise specified
  • It is each students responsibility to enrol correctly according to your course requisites, program rules and requirements and be aware of the academic calendar dates
  • Cross-institutional study is not permitted for the education (EDU) coded courses and SCS203 Introduction to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education in the Bachelor of Education (Secondary) / Bachelor of Arts
  • Each course must count towards one discipline area only. They cannot be used to count towards both teaching discipline areas
  • Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods which may include essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations
  • Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa
  • Refer to the Managing your progression page for help in understanding your program structure, reviewing your progress and planning remaining courses.
WIL notes

It is no longer a requirement that students in Bachelor of Education/Bachelor of Arts are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Please note that some placement host organisations have chosen to continue requiring COVID-19 vaccination. If you are not fully vaccinated, it is important to know that placement opportunities in your program may be limited and may result in a delay to your placement.

UniSC still strongly recommends that all students undertaking placement are fully vaccinated and provide evidence of this vaccination status to the University.

In order to commence Supervised Professional Experience (SPE) placement you must:

  • Obtain a Blue Card (or link your existing Blue Card to USC) prior to commencing supervised professional experience. Applications should be submitted at least 12 weeks prior to the SPE start date. View the Blue Card Fact Sheet for further information.
  • Complete PrePlace and a Student Placement Agreement (further information will be provided by the placement office upon enrolment)
  • Be willing to travel to attend supervised professional experience placements
  • Visit Education - Professional Experience (PEx) for more information regarding requirements for placements
Study sequences

This study sequence reflects the current program structure. Continuing students must follow their commencing structure, which can be found in the previous student handbooks.

Student profile

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Adjusted ATARs are a calculation of a student's ATAR + eligible adjustment factors and are used to determine admission. The raw ATAR is the student's rank before any adjustments are applied.

Entry requirements

For entry into most USC undergraduate degree programs, you need to have completed a minimum level of education similar to successful completion of Australian Year 12 with good grades.

Further studies, for example, a semester or more at college or university, can also be considered for entry and may give you credit transfer towards a degree.

Some examples of upper secondary qualifications and a guide to the minimum grades that USC will consider are listed here. These are minimum requirements and do not guarantee entry. Some programs may require higher grades. Alternative qualifications may also be considered on a case by case basis.

If your qualification (grouped by country) is not listed, send the qualification transcripts with your application form to the International Office for assessment.

English language requirements

You will also need to meet the English language requirements for this program. If you do not meet the minimum requirements, you may be able to enrol in our English Language Programs to reach the required level for most of UniSC’s programs (exceptions apply to non-standard English requirement programs).

Minimum entry threshold

Applicants must meet the minimum ATAR/Rank.

Location ATAR/Rank
Sunshine Coast 68.00
Moreton Bay 68.00

Post admission requirements

  • Students must complete 80 days of supervised professional experience, completed as full-time blocks as program approved. Most of this experience must be completed in a Queensland school. Students must undergo a criminal history check and obtain a Suitability Card before the first workplace experience, refer to institution.
  • As required by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian Act (2000), pre-service teachers must undergo a criminal history check and be issued with a Suitability Card (Blue Card) by the Commission to allow them to undertake field experience in a school or centre in which children under 18 years of age are present. It is highly recommended that students be proactive in applying for a card as soon as they are accepted into the program. It is now a requirement of all Queensland sites and most Australian sites that pre-service teachers have obtained the Blue Card prior to starting professional learning.
  • Student must be able to travel to attend professional experience placements.
  • Students undertaking an Initial Teacher Education program are expected to undertake and meet the benchmark in the Personal Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Educators (ITE). Students must complete and pass the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education (LANTITE) prior to graduating.
  • Adhere to the Student Code of Conduct and meet Inherent Academic Requirements.
  • Full details of entry to this program are on the QTAC website.
  • The program includes activities and assessment that require a minimum level of personal mobility and physical fitness to complete. Please contact the Program Coordinator for more information or see the Inherent Academic Requirements.

Additional entry information

Applicants from a non-English speaking background must attain an IELTS score of at least 7.5 with a minimum of 8.0 in speaking and listening and 7.0 in all other subtests - refer to English language requirements.

 

Prerequisites

English (Units 3 and 4, C); General Maths, Maths Methods or Specialist Maths (Units 3 and 4, C)

Recommended prior study
A history subject
Inherent academic requirements

Prospective students must consider the Inherent Academic Requirements before applying to study this program.

Refer to Bachelor of Education (Secondary)/Bachelor of Arts - Inherent Academic Requirements

UniSC strongly supports the rights of all people to pursue studies. The University embraces diversity and endeavours to accommodate all students.

What are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs)?

The IARs of a program are those fundamental skills, capabilities and knowledge that students must be able to demonstrate in order to achieve the essential learning outcomes of the program, while maintaining the academic integrity of that program.

Students with a disability or chronic health condition may be able to have reasonable adjustments made to enable them to meet these requirements.

UniSC is committed to making reasonable adjustments to teaching and learning, assessment, placement and other activities to enable students to participate in their program.

Reasonable adjustments must not fundamentally change the nature of the IAR.

Consideration is given to a student's cultural and religious background/beliefs, which may impact on participation in their program or course. For further information contact Student Support.

Why are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs) important?

IARs ensure the academic integrity of a program is maintained and preserves the University's learning, assessment and accreditation processes. They must be met by all students.

How does this affect you?

To successfully complete a program at UniSC, you need to be able to meet all the Inherent Academic Requirements.

If you are applying for a program, you should read the IAR statement carefully to ensure you are able to meet them.

If you have a disability or chronic health condition, contact a UniSC Disability Advisor to talk about the adjustments that may be put in place so you can meet the requirements.

Headstart Program - Years 10 to 12

The Headstart program lets you study uni subjects while you’re still in high school. If you successfully complete two Headstart courses, you’ll get a selection rank that you could use to get into uni.

Early Offer Guarantee scheme - Year 12

The Early Offer Guarantee scheme enables Year 12 students to be offered a place at UniSC on the basis of their Principal's recommendation.

Prior study or work experience

If you:

  • have completed Year 12 (no matter how long ago)
  • have a TAFE/VET qualification
  • have relevant work experience, or
  • have studied at university before (even if you didn’t complete your studies)

You may be eligible for a selection rank, which can help you get into uni. For more detailed information selection ranks and how applications are assessed, visit Admissions explained.

Tertiary Preparation Pathway

If you don’t have qualifications or experience that will give you a selection rank, you can complete the Tertiary Preparation Pathway as a stepping stone into most degrees. You can also use TPP to complete subject prerequisites.

If you haven’t studied in a while, TPP is also a great way to brush up on essential study skills like critical reading, assignment writing and referencing.

It can also build your knowledge and confidence in the subject areas you’ll need for your degree, like science or maths. TPP courses are fee-free for eligible domestic students.

Indigenous Direct Entry and Access Scheme (IDEAS)

You may be eligible for direct entry into a UniSC degree based on your potential to succeed, under UniSC’s Indigenous Direct Entry and Access Scheme (IDEAS). All you have to do is complete an online application through our website.

High-school leavers completing year 12 are not eligible, and must apply through QTAC.

CSP estimate
A$9,848 - 2025 Fees
Annual tuition fee (A$, 2025)
A$26,750

Additional student costs

In education, students will be expected to purchase relevant textbooks in hard or electronic version, computer software and access online material to support their learning. This will require suitable computer hardware, software and internet access to engage within course materials, professional experience and assessment using personal devices or university provided equipment. Students will be expected to wear appropriate, professional dress during and to fund travel and accommodation when undertaking professional experience and other on-campus activities related to the profession. Most science courses have a practical component. Students in laboratories are required to wear a laboratory coat and enclosed shoes. Many laboratory activities also require safety glasses. In many science courses, a laboratory manual is required, which can either be printed out from Canvas or, where available, purchased from Mail and Print Services (MaPS). Some science courses have field studies (of duration one or more days) as

Commonwealth supported places

Commonwealth supported places are substantially subsidised by the Australian Government so that students only pay 'student contribution" amounts. The student contribution amount will vary depending on the course you are studying and how much funding the Government provides.

If you accept a Commonwealth supported place you are a Commonwealth supported student. As a Commonwealth supported student you must make a contribution towards the cost of your education (unless you are enrolled in Enabling or Tertiary Preparation Pathway courses) with the majority of the cost met by the Commonwealth Government.

Commonwealth supported places are only available to domestic students. As a domestic student you are entitled to a Commonwealth supported place in an eligible program if you:

  • meet the citizenship and residency requirements
  • complete an electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form (eCAF)
  • meet the University's entry requirements for your chosen program.

International fee-paying places

Annual tuition fees are based on 2025 rates and the equivalent full-time student load as per the recommended study sequence in the relevant program.

Actual fees payable are based on the actual enrolment load in a teaching period (excluding Study Abroad and Postgraduate Qualifying Pathway).

All prices quoted are in Australian Dollars (A$).

Domestic applicants apply for admission through the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC). Some applicants may be eligible to apply direct to UniSC if they meet certain criteria.

Find out about how to apply and key application closing dates.

No matter what kind of future you’re looking for, you can find it at UniSC. Our programs offer the choice and flexibility you need to get started on any career goal.

Visit How to apply for simple steps to submit your international student application and start your UniSC experience today.

Need help with submitting your application?

UniSC has appointed representatives to assist you with submitting your application and provide information about the steps you need to complete to begin your studies. You can contact a UniSC Representative in your area.

Any questions? Contact us.

QTAC code

Location QTAC code
Sunshine Coast 017221
Moreton Bay 014221
No. 1 in Qld for overall educational experience in education and training Ranking of public universities. Good Universities Guide 2024/25
95% of UniSC education graduates find employment within four months of finishing study
No. 1 in Qld for teaching quality in education and training Ranking of public universities. Good Universities Guide 2024/25
Need advice on what to study or how to apply? 
Our Student Central team can help.

Call us +61 7 5430 2890
Email us information@usc.edu.au
For locations and opening hours, visit Student Central.

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