Bachelor of Education (Secondary and Special Education)

Become an in-demand secondary teacher who makes a difference. In a supportive and collaborative learning environment, backed by world leading expertise, you will build your knowledge, resourcefulness, and creativity as a secondary teacher. Develop the practical skills to nurture and advocate for secondary school students with a disability or learning and behavioural difficulties. This course combines one discipline teaching area with special education giving you the ability to gain registration to teach in both secondary and special education settings. Expand your skills over time, from observing your mentor teacher, to co-teaching, through to planning for and teaching multiple classes a day.

The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) and the ACT Teacher Quality Institute require students to pass the National Literacy and Numeracy Test prior to completing the final professional experience placement.

All students in initial teacher education courses must meet the LANTITE test standard prior to graduation. You need to demonstrate once that you have met the standard for each test component (literacy and numeracy) before you undertake your final teaching placement. Test results are transferrable and do not expire.

If you have not met the standard for either component after your first attempt, it is very important that you contact the Course Coordinator immediately to discuss your options.

Areas of study

Education (Secondary), Education (Special Education).

Career opportunities

Secondary school education, special needs education, community centre education, private colleges, inclusive education settings, advocacy, policy development.

Professional recognition

This program has been listed on the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) accredited programs list and meets the teacher education component of the qualification requirement for registration (accreditation) as a secondary school teacher in all states and territories. Students will develop knowledge and skills in the secondary curriculum and two specialist secondary teaching areas.

By selecting religious education and/or theology units, you will be eligible to teach Religious Education in Catholic and other faith-based schools.

Practical experience

A minimum of 110 days (with minimum 30 days in special education setting) of professional experience and 35 hours of community engagement. The Professional and Community Engagement program, embedded in the course, provides a number of opportunities for students to complete a practicum in a range of school and community settings. Students must obtain a Working With Children Check before the first professional experience placement.

Fees and charges

Visit the ACU website for general information about tuition fees.