Master of Teaching / Graduate Diploma in Education

The UNSW School of Education offers two intensive pre-service secondary teacher education programs for graduate students. 

The Master of Teaching is an accelerated pre-service secondary teacher education program specfically designed to support students in their transition into first year teaching and to nuture future leaders of the profession.

The Graduate Diploma in Education is an intensive full time program consisting of the first three semesters of the Master of Teaching. The program aims to provide a strong initial year of preparation for teaching in secondary schools.

Both pre-service teacher education programs offer innovative teaching methods that link practice with theory and equip students with the understanding and skills needed to become competent education professionals. Students gain advanced skills in effective unit and lesson planning, and assessment and reporting design.

An emphasis is placed on enhanced communication skills to ensure effective classroom communication, the practice of reflective teaching and the desire to continually improve professional knowledge and practice. The programs also encourage active engagement with members of the teaching profession and the wider community.

Professional Experience

Teaching practice is undertaken in at least two different secondary schools under the supervision of experienced teachers, and is complemented by an innovative program of community engagement. The Master of Teaching program also includes a school-based professional practice component, consisting of extensive self and peer evaluation and critical reflection. Students must be available five days a week during normal school hours during these periods.  Click here for more information about Professional Experience at UNSW.

Career Opportunities

Both programs are recognised as an initial teaching qualification in both government and non-government schools in New South Wales and in all other states in Australia. The programs are also widely accepted as a teaching qualification internationally. Students gain registration with the NSW Institute of Teachers and are prepared for employment with the Department of Education and Training, independent schools and other relevant organisations

The Graduate Certificate in Education is suitable for already qualified teachers who wish to be able to teach an additional subject. Students of this degree must have relevant undergraduate studies in the specialty they wish to study. They must also be teaching at a school that will allow them to carry out their Professional Experience (prac teaching) with them. As this degree is designed for working teachers, it is undertaken part-time. 

Teaching Specialisations

Secondary school teachers are expected to have two teaching specialisations. Prospective English or History teachers may select a double or single method. Prospective Mathematics, Music and Science teachers may select only one double method. Others may select two single method courses.

Double Method Courses: English, History, Mathematics, Music, Science

Single Method Courses: Aboriginal Studies, Business Studies, Drama, Economics, English, English as a Second Language (ESL), Geography, History, Languages (including French, German, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Indonesian), Legal Studies, Dance, Society and Culture

Program Information

Download GDE/Master of Teaching Brochure (click here (PDF) (1 Mb))

UNSW Handbook Information

• Graduate Diploma in Education
• Master of Teaching