Graduate Certificate in Education (Catholic Education)

This graduate certificate is specifically designed for qualified educators who are interested in developing their knowledge, understanding and skills in Catholic education practices, principles and policies.

The four courses you are required to complete integrate contemporary education theory and practice with biblical studies and theology.

You will cover recent developments in theories, research and debates relating to the practice of Catholic education, as well as the philosophical and theological foundations of Catholic education.

Entry requirements

This graduate certificate is specifically designed for qualified educators who are interested in developing their knowledge, understanding and skills in Catholic education practices, principles and policies.

The four courses you are required to complete integrate contemporary education theory and practice with biblical studies and theology. These courses cover scripture, theology, contemporary Catholic schools, and religious education. You will also cover recent developments in theories, research and debates relating to the practice of Catholic education, as well as the philosophical and theological foundations of Catholic education.

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects and contribute to online discussion forums. So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12 – 26 hours of study when at university and 14 – 28 hours of independent study per week.

Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. There may be essays, assignments and examinations. You could also expect:

We have a strong relationship with Catholic Education South Australia (CESA) – for current CESA teachers this graduate certificate is fully funded through CESA. We also have a strong reputation as a dynamic, vibrant and connected organisation, and as such we have extensive national and international industry links and relationships. These industry relationships are of great benefit to students and will form part of your important industry network.

Our teaching staff and many of our academics are also highly regarded researchers, and you may have the opportunity to work alongside these practicing professionals throughout your study.

Your career

Teachers have a passion for learning and a dedication to the social, emotional, physical and psychological development of children. Well-developed interpersonal skills, patience, as well as impeccable organisational and communication skills, are key attributes of successful primary educators.

The demand for teachers is strong1. This graduate certificate extends your learning and skills in the areas of Catholic education - graduates may find employment in Catholic education and independent schools.

1Australian Government, National Skills Commission, Job Outlook 2020

To apply to study with us go to the top of this page and click Apply. You will be directed to our online application portal.

Our campuses have fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, tech zones, and areas that simulate real work environments. You’ll also find student gyms and campus sport activities to keep you active. We also offer flexible study options, with online resources available for accessing lecture recordings, virtual classrooms, library resources and learning support.

Adelaide has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation or private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages for plenty of options. If you need somewhere to live, our new student accommodation by urbanest is on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, a perfect location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Our student support services can make your life at university easier. We provide a full range of support services including academic and personal counselling. You can also access a range of services through our students association, USASA. When you become a UniSA student you can contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and any other questions you might have.

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with advanced facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, laboratories, and areas that simulate real work environments.