Key facts

Domestic students course information.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on a bachelor qualification with GPA and Teaching Area requirements. A Personal Statement is required.

Entry is based on a bachelor qualification with GPA and Teaching Area requirements. A Personal Statement is required. English language requirements must also be met.

View full entry requirements
Duration
  • 2 years full-time
  • Up to 6 years part-time
Number of Units (Subjects)
  • 16 units (96 credit points)
View course structure
Fees
  • Commonwealth Supported Place (quotas apply)
  • Full Fee
  • International
View more fees information
CRICOS code
  • 064592G
Start Dates and Campus
Trimester 1 – February 2024Trimester 2 – June 2024Trimester 3 – October 2024
OnlineOfferedOfferedOffered
Armidale CampusOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Sydney CampusNot OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered
OnlineOfferedOfferedOffered
Armidale CampusOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Sydney CampusNot OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered

Course information

Download course brochure
UNE student assists school student in front of a laptop

Accelerate your career opportunities with the UNE Master of Teaching (Secondary). Gain the specialist knowledge and skills you need to become a sought-after teacher who makes a difference. Study online in a flexible timeframe that suits your lifestyle. Be positioned at the forefront of educational expertise to make your education career goals a reality.

2024 Teaching scholarships

Starting one of UNE's Teaching courses in 2024? You can get up to $40,000 toward your studies. For more information about the range of teaching scholarships available, register your interest now.

Why study the Master of Teaching (Secondary) with UNE?

The UNE Master of Teaching (Secondary) is a graduate initial teacher education program that provides you with a supportive and intellectually challenging way to build your expertise as a sought-after secondary teacher. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, this degree will open the door to a variety of secondary teaching opportunities.

What makes our course different?

This course equips you with the advanced knowledge and skills to make an impactful contribution to the teaching profession. You will:

  • Have the freedom to choose up to three specialist teaching areas based on your background studies, such as English, Mathematics, Science, Languages, Chemistry, Business Studies/Commerce, Society and Culture and more.
  • Take advantage of our Teaching English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D) specialisation and/or extended curriculum programs in English, Mathematics, Science and Music.
  • Hone your practical skills with 60 days of professional experience spread across three units, including an online demonstration school and a professional experience internship.
  • Build your knowledge of the latest research principles and methods by completing a research project.
  • Expand your skills as an independent researcher, working on your own findings to build your understanding of the social and cultural importance of educational work.

By choosing UNE, you are choosing an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning for aspiring and qualified teachers. In fact, students consistently award us the maximum 5-star ratings in The Good Universities Guide for Overall Experience and Student Support.

Teacher Registration: requirements vary from state to state. UNE bases our degree structures on the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) guidelines, under the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership framework for teacher registration. It's your responsibility to check your eligibility to teach with the relevant state authority (including if you're intending to teach in NSW).

This is an approved Student Income Support course. Eligible students may apply for Youth Allowance or Austudy. This course is accredited with the New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA).

Study online

Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.

Study on campus

Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.

* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.

Entry requirements

Select the option that best describes you.

If you are an international applicant who wants to study on campus in Australia:

You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.

You can apply for this course if you have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent).

You must also meet all of the following entry requirements:

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Please note: This course is only open to you if you hold an Australian Temporary Resident status that permits you to study online. In addition, it is a NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) requirement that a minimum of 50% of Professional Experience placements are completed in Australian settings.

Transfer from another UNE course
If you are currently studying another postgraduate qualification at UNE, you can apply to transfer into this course. To be assessed for admission you must meet all of the following entry requirements:

  • You are eligible for admission to this course as per the above admission rules.
  • You have completed at least 4 units of study within a single course with a minimum GPA of 4.0.
  • You can satisfy the School of Education of your suitability for teaching by completing a Personal Statement.

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

* Please see the Additional Requirements for all Applicants below for further information regarding NESA Subject Content Knowledge Requirements and Teaching Area eligibility.

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

Additional Admission Requirements

Teaching Areas
Teaching areas are subjects or disciplines within the Secondary Education field. Secondary teachers must have a minimum of one First Teaching Area. Teachers may have multiple First Teaching Areas and multiple Additional Teaching Areas. Candidates who meet further First or Additional Teaching Areas based on their studies as per above, may be permitted to add to a maximum of three areas. There are general requirements for First Teaching Areas and Additional Teaching Areas, and specific eligibility requirements for each discipline as per the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA). Applicants' undergraduate (and appropriate coursework postgraduate) studies must include units meeting the Subject Content Knowledge Requirements for their intended Teaching Area/s in the secondary school curriculum areas (Teaching Areas), as detailed below. 
> Review the NESA Subject Content Knowledge Requirements

First Teaching Areas
In your previous studies you must have undertaken a major, or three-quarters of a year (0.75 Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL) or equivalent) of study in a discipline. In most programs this requirement equates to 6 units, with no more than 2 units at first-year level and no fewer than 2 units at third-year level.

Additional Teaching Areas
In your previous studies you must have undertaken a minor, or half of a year (0.50 Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL) or equivalent) of study in a discipline. In most programs, this requirement equates to 4 units, with no more than 2 units at first-year level.

Please note: If you are 12 credit points (equivalent to two units) short of meeting the prerequisite discipline units for a teaching area, you may be admitted to this course with that teaching area. The shortfall in discipline units must be completed prior to or concurrently with the Curriculum Units associated with the Teaching Area. Such discipline units are in addition to the standard Course Structure (Program of Study)  and incur an additional cost and must be completed in order to graduate. The maximum shortfall to enter the Master of Teaching is 12 credit points across the award.

First Teaching Area (Major) Candidates in their undergraduate (and appropriate coursework postgraduate) studies will have successfully undertaken the equivalent of three-quarters of a year (0.75 Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL) of discipline study, usually comprising sequential units taken over three years. In most programs, this requirement equates to six units, with no more than two units at first-year level and no fewer than two units at third-year level.

Additional Teaching Area/s (Minor) Candidates wishing to be qualified to teach an additional secondary teaching area (for flexibility of employment) are required to have successfully undertaken the equivalent of half a year (0.5 EFTSL) of discipline study in their undergraduate (and appropriate coursework postgraduate), usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over two years. In most programs, this requirement equates to four units, with no more than two units at first-year level.

UNE assess Teaching Areas against the NESA Subject Content Knowledge Requirements for admission to a graduate entry program and offer the following areas:

  • Agriculture
  • Ancient History*
  • Biology (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Business Studies/Commerce*
  • Chemistry (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Drama*
  • English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D)**
  • Earth and Environmental Science (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Economics/Commerce*
  • English
  • Geography*
  • Information Processes and Technology*
  • Investigating Science (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Modern History*
  • Languages*
  • Legal Studies*
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematics/Physics (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Music (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Physics (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Society and Culture*
  • Software Design and Development*
  • Studies of Religion*

* To be admitted with one of the following Teaching Areas, you must also be admitted with a second area (the second area can be from any area above): Ancient History, Business Studies, Drama, English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D), Economics/Commerce, Geography, Information Processes and Technology, Modern History, Languages, Legal Studies, Society and Culture, Software Design and Development and Studies of Religion.

** To be admitted with English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D) as either a First or Additional Teaching Area, you must also be admitted with another First Teaching Area.

# Candidates may not take more than two of the following Science Teaching Areas: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science, Investigating Science and Physics in the Master of Teaching (Secondary). 

†  UNE are able to admit candidates with the following languages: Chinese, Classical Languages (Latin and Greek), French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese and Spanish.

This course cannot be studied at the same time as, or after completing, the Master of Teaching (Primary) or equivalent.

Fit for Practice/Informed Consent Information

You should only accept an offer for this course if you meet the following Fit for Practice requirements. You must:

  • abide by UNE policies, such as Student Behavioural Misconduct Rules;
  • abide by School of Education policies, such as the Professional Experience Policy for professional placements;
  • exercise sound judgment, based on cognitive, mental and physical health, and be able to respond appropriately to the demands of teaching situations;
  • show personal resilience and persistence to cope and maintain wellbeing under stressful situations;
  • uphold UNE’s integrity and show duty of care to students/children while completing professional experience;
  • show personal maturity to ensure that a professional relationship is established with students/children;
  • communicate with students/children with clarity and in a manner appropriate to their age/profile;
  • have and model the literacy and numeracy skills expected of teachers in interactions both inside and outside the classroom;
  • be able to create, evaluate and reflect on the physical and emotional safety of students/children in various situations and environments; and
  • be able to establish and maintain effective professional relationships with colleagues and broader school/early childhood communities.

If you have or develop a disability that could prevent you from meeting these requirements, please contact UNE’s Student Services team to see how we can help you succeed. If you find that you have difficulties meeting the requirements above during your studies, please contact the Office for Professional Learning for assistance.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Visa Information

On-Campus study
If you would like to study full-time in Australia at one of UNE's campuses, you will need to have a visa that allows you to study. For most international students this visa will need to be a Student Visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has further information about visa eligibility and conditions.

If you are an international applicant who wants to study online (overseas or in Australia):

You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.

You can apply for this course if you have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent).

You must also meet all of the following entry requirements:

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Please note: This course is only open to you if you hold an Australian Temporary Resident status that permits you to study online. In addition, it is a NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) requirement that a minimum of 50% of Professional Experience placements are completed in Australian settings.

Transfer from another UNE course
If you are currently studying another postgraduate qualification at UNE, you can apply to transfer into this course. To be assessed for admission you must meet all of the following entry requirements:

  • You are eligible for admission to this course as per the above admission rules.
  • You have completed at least 4 units of study within a single course with a minimum GPA of 4.0.
  • You can satisfy the School of Education of your suitability for teaching by completing a Personal Statement.

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

* Please see the Additional Requirements for all Applicants below for further information regarding NESA Subject Content Knowledge Requirements and Teaching Area eligibility.

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

Additional Admission Requirements

Teaching Areas
Teaching areas are subjects or disciplines within the Secondary Education field. Secondary teachers must have a minimum of one First Teaching Area. Teachers may have multiple First Teaching Areas and multiple Additional Teaching Areas. Candidates who meet further First or Additional Teaching Areas based on their studies as per above, may be permitted to add to a maximum of three areas. There are general requirements for First Teaching Areas and Additional Teaching Areas, and specific eligibility requirements for each discipline as per the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA). Applicants' undergraduate (and appropriate coursework postgraduate) studies must include units meeting the Subject Content Knowledge Requirements for their intended Teaching Area/s in the secondary school curriculum areas (Teaching Areas), as detailed below. 
> Review the NESA Subject Content Knowledge Requirements

First Teaching Areas
In your previous studies you must have undertaken a major, or three-quarters of a year (0.75 Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL) or equivalent) of study in a discipline. In most programs this requirement equates to 6 units, with no more than 2 units at first-year level and no fewer than 2 units at third-year level.

Additional Teaching Areas
In your previous studies you must have undertaken a minor, or half of a year (0.50 Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL) or equivalent) of study in a discipline. In most programs, this requirement equates to 4 units, with no more than 2 units at first-year level.

Please note: If you are 12 credit points (equivalent to two units) short of meeting the prerequisite discipline units for a teaching area, you may be admitted to this course with that teaching area. The shortfall in discipline units must be completed prior to or concurrently with the Curriculum Units associated with the Teaching Area. Such discipline units are in addition to the standard Course Structure (Program of Study)  and incur an additional cost and must be completed in order to graduate. The maximum shortfall to enter the Master of Teaching is 12 credit points across the award.

First Teaching Area (Major) Candidates in their undergraduate (and appropriate coursework postgraduate) studies will have successfully undertaken the equivalent of three-quarters of a year (0.75 Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL) of discipline study, usually comprising sequential units taken over three years. In most programs, this requirement equates to six units, with no more than two units at first-year level and no fewer than two units at third-year level.

Additional Teaching Area/s (Minor) Candidates wishing to be qualified to teach an additional secondary teaching area (for flexibility of employment) are required to have successfully undertaken the equivalent of half a year (0.5 EFTSL) of discipline study in their undergraduate (and appropriate coursework postgraduate), usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over two years. In most programs, this requirement equates to four units, with no more than two units at first-year level.

UNE assess Teaching Areas against the NESA Subject Content Knowledge Requirements for admission to a graduate entry program and offer the following areas:

  • Agriculture
  • Ancient History*
  • Biology (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Business Studies/Commerce*
  • Chemistry (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Drama*
  • English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D)**
  • Earth and Environmental Science (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Economics/Commerce*
  • English
  • Geography*
  • Information Processes and Technology*
  • Investigating Science (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Modern History*
  • Languages*
  • Legal Studies*
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematics/Physics (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Music (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Physics (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Society and Culture*
  • Software Design and Development*
  • Studies of Religion*

* To be admitted with one of the following Teaching Areas, you must also be admitted with a second area (the second area can be from any area above): Ancient History, Business Studies, Drama, English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D), Economics/Commerce, Geography, Information Processes and Technology, Modern History, Languages, Legal Studies, Society and Culture, Software Design and Development and Studies of Religion.

** To be admitted with English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D) as either a First or Additional Teaching Area, you must also be admitted with another First Teaching Area.

# Candidates may not take more than two of the following Science Teaching Areas: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science, Investigating Science and Physics in the Master of Teaching (Secondary). 

†  UNE are able to admit candidates with the following languages: Chinese, Classical Languages (Latin and Greek), French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese and Spanish.

This course cannot be studied at the same time as, or after completing, the Master of Teaching (Primary) or equivalent.

Fit for Practice/Informed Consent Information

You should only accept an offer for this course if you meet the following Fit for Practice requirements. You must:

  • abide by UNE policies, such as Student Behavioural Misconduct Rules;
  • abide by School of Education policies, such as the Professional Experience Policy for professional placements;
  • exercise sound judgment, based on cognitive, mental and physical health, and be able to respond appropriately to the demands of teaching situations;
  • show personal resilience and persistence to cope and maintain wellbeing under stressful situations;
  • uphold UNE’s integrity and show duty of care to students/children while completing professional experience;
  • show personal maturity to ensure that a professional relationship is established with students/children;
  • communicate with students/children with clarity and in a manner appropriate to their age/profile;
  • have and model the literacy and numeracy skills expected of teachers in interactions both inside and outside the classroom;
  • be able to create, evaluate and reflect on the physical and emotional safety of students/children in various situations and environments; and
  • be able to establish and maintain effective professional relationships with colleagues and broader school/early childhood communities.

If you have or develop a disability that could prevent you from meeting these requirements, please contact UNE’s Student Services team to see how we can help you succeed. If you find that you have difficulties meeting the requirements above during your studies, please contact the Office for Professional Learning for assistance.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Visa Information

Online study in your own country
If you would like to study online with UNE while you reside outside of Australia you do not need a Student Visa. If your course requires you to visit Australia to attend any mandatory study requirements, you would need to explore Visitor Visa options for a short-term stay.

Online study in Australia
If you would like to study online with UNE while you are residing in Australia, you will need to hold a visa (other than a Student Visa) that allows you to study. If you are unsure if your visa allows you to study, you can check with UNE's International Admissions team. If you hold a Student Visa you cannot study completely online; you must be enrolled as an on-campus student (although you can study a limited number of online units).

Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:

  • A certified academic transcript of your completed Bachelor qualification and any other qualifications relevant to your Teaching Area eligibility.
  • A personal statement. This is a requirement of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) consisting of four questions regarding your motivation and suitability to teach. Learn how to write and submit your personal statement.
  • Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
  • Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information.

Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.

Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.

Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for the following units:

  • EDUC540 Classroom Management and Research: Online PrEx 10 days
  • EDUC550 Research Project and Professional Experience: PrEx 20 days
  • EDUC558 Reflective Practitioner: PrEx 30 days
  • Teaching English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D) units
  • Language units

> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing

You can apply for this course if you have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent).

You must also meet all of the following entry requirements:

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Transfer from another UNE course
If you are currently studying another postgraduate qualification at UNE, you can apply to transfer into this course. To be assessed for admission you must meet all of the following entry requirements:

  • You are eligible for admission to this course as per the above admission rules.
  • You have completed at least 4 units of study within a single course with a minimum GPA of 4.0.
  • You can satisfy the School of Education of your suitability for teaching by completing a Personal Statement.

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

* Please see the Additional Requirements for all Applicants below for further information regarding NESA Subject Content Knowledge Requirements and Teaching Area eligibility.

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

English Language Requirements

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

Additional Admission Requirements

Teaching Areas
Teaching areas are subjects or disciplines within the Secondary Education field. Secondary teachers must have a minimum of one First Teaching Area. Teachers may have multiple First Teaching Areas and multiple Additional Teaching Areas. Candidates who meet further First or Additional Teaching Areas based on their studies as per above, may be permitted to add to a maximum of three areas. There are general requirements for First Teaching Areas and Additional Teaching Areas, and specific eligibility requirements for each discipline as per the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA). Applicants' undergraduate (and appropriate coursework postgraduate) studies must include units meeting the Subject Content Knowledge Requirements for their intended Teaching Area/s in the secondary school curriculum areas (Teaching Areas), as detailed below. 
> Review the NESA Subject Content Knowledge Requirements

First Teaching Areas
In your previous studies you must have undertaken a major, or three-quarters of a year (0.75 Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL) or equivalent) of study in a discipline. In most programs this requirement equates to 6 units, with no more than 2 units at first-year level and no fewer than 2 units at third-year level.

Additional Teaching Areas
In your previous studies you must have undertaken a minor, or half of a year (0.50 Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL) or equivalent) of study in a discipline. In most programs, this requirement equates to 4 units, with no more than 2 units at first-year level.

Please note: If you are 12 credit points (equivalent to two units) short of meeting the prerequisite discipline units for a teaching area, you may be admitted to this course with that teaching area. The shortfall in discipline units must be completed prior to or concurrently with the Curriculum Units associated with the Teaching Area. Such discipline units are in addition to the standard Course Structure (Program of Study)  and incur an additional cost and must be completed in order to graduate. The maximum shortfall to enter the Master of Teaching is 12 credit points across the award.

First Teaching Area (Major) Candidates in their undergraduate (and appropriate coursework postgraduate) studies will have successfully undertaken the equivalent of three-quarters of a year (0.75 Equivalent Full Time Study Load (EFTSL) of discipline study, usually comprising sequential units taken over three years. In most programs, this requirement equates to six units, with no more than two units at first-year level and no fewer than two units at third-year level.

Additional Teaching Area/s (Minor) Candidates wishing to be qualified to teach an additional secondary teaching area (for flexibility of employment) are required to have successfully undertaken the equivalent of half a year (0.5 EFTSL) of discipline study in their undergraduate (and appropriate coursework postgraduate), usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over two years. In most programs, this requirement equates to four units, with no more than two units at first-year level.

UNE assess Teaching Areas against the NESA Subject Content Knowledge Requirements for admission to a graduate entry program and offer the following areas:

  • Agriculture
  • Ancient History*
  • Biology (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Business Studies/Commerce*
  • Chemistry (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Drama*
  • English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D)**
  • Earth and Environmental Science (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Economics/Commerce*
  • English
  • Geography*
  • Information Processes and Technology*
  • Investigating Science (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Modern History*
  • Languages*
  • Legal Studies*
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematics/Physics (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Music (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Physics (First Teaching Area Only)#
  • Society and Culture*
  • Software Design and Development*
  • Studies of Religion*

* To be admitted with one of the following Teaching Areas, you must also be admitted with a second area (the second area can be from any area above): Ancient History, Business Studies, Drama, English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D), Economics/Commerce, Geography, Information Processes and Technology, Modern History, Languages, Legal Studies, Society and Culture, Software Design and Development and Studies of Religion.

** To be admitted with English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D) as either a First or Additional Teaching Area, you must also be admitted with another First Teaching Area.

# Candidates may not take more than two of the following Science Teaching Areas: Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science, Investigating Science and Physics in the Master of Teaching (Secondary). 

†  UNE are able to admit candidates with the following languages: Chinese, Classical Languages (Latin and Greek), French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese and Spanish.

This course cannot be studied at the same time as, or after completing, the Master of Teaching (Primary) or equivalent.

Fit for Practice/Informed Consent Information

You should only accept an offer for this course if you meet the following Fit for Practice requirements. You must:

  • abide by UNE policies, such as Student Behavioural Misconduct Rules;
  • abide by School of Education policies, such as the Professional Experience Policy for professional placements;
  • exercise sound judgment, based on cognitive, mental and physical health, and be able to respond appropriately to the demands of teaching situations;
  • show personal resilience and persistence to cope and maintain wellbeing under stressful situations;
  • uphold UNE’s integrity and show duty of care to students/children while completing professional experience;
  • show personal maturity to ensure that a professional relationship is established with students/children;
  • communicate with students/children with clarity and in a manner appropriate to their age/profile;
  • have and model the literacy and numeracy skills expected of teachers in interactions both inside and outside the classroom;
  • be able to create, evaluate and reflect on the physical and emotional safety of students/children in various situations and environments; and
  • be able to establish and maintain effective professional relationships with colleagues and broader school/early childhood communities.

If you have or develop a disability that could prevent you from meeting these requirements, please contact UNE’s Student Services team to see how we can help you succeed. If you find that you have difficulties meeting the requirements above during your studies, please contact the Office for Professional Learning for assistance.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:

Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.

Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.

Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for the following units:

  • EDUC540 Classroom Management and Research: Online PrEx 10 days
  • EDUC550 Research Project and Professional Experience: PrEx 20 days
  • EDUC558 Reflective Practitioner: PrEx 30 days
  • Teaching English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D) units
  • Language units

> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing

Course structure

  1. To qualify for the award a candidate must pass units to the value of 96 credit points including 48 credit points at 500-level and 60 days embedded professional experience in their designated teaching area(s).
  2. Candidates must pass the National Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students to qualify for the award. The test must be passed before the final professional experience placement.
  3. Candidates must pass the Graduate Teacher Performance Assessment (GTPA) during the final professional experience placement to qualify for the award.

54 credit points

Complete the following units: Regarding placements EDUC550 and EDUC558 (and PREX304-6 if selecting): -Candidates must ensure they teach all Teaching Area(s)* in a placement/across multiple placements by the end of their degree at both the junior and senior level i.e. Stage 4/5 and Stage 6 for each teaching area. -Candidates are unable to attend a placement for a particular Teaching Area if they are yet to complete the associated Curriculum Unit. i.e. if only the junior Curriculum Unit has been completed, then placement can only be undertaken at the junior level. *A candidates teaching areas are those assigned in an offer letter and/or that appear on their enrolment record.

Complete only those Curriculum Units associated with the Teaching Area(s) you have been approved for in your offer letter and/or appear in your enrolment record.

Candidates need to complete a minimum of 24 credit points (cp) in curriculum methods units with the exception of: - students qualifying to teach either Information Processes and Technology or Software Design and Development as their First and only Teaching Area, who complete 18 credit points (cp) in curriculum methods. - students qualifying to teach both Ancient History and Modern History as their only approved Teaching Areas complete 18 credit points (cp) in curriculum methods.

Candidates who have been approved for Music or English or Mathematics or Agriculture or Biology* or Chemistry* or Earth and Environmental Science* or Investigating Science* or Physics* as a First Teaching Area, in combination with another Teaching Area, are permitted to take 12-24cps from this area and 12cps from the other area as specified below.

*Candidates who have been approved for two Science Teaching Areas (Biology or Chemistry or Earth and Environmental Science or Investigating Science or Physics) must complete all 24cps in Curriculum Methods AND must ensure that they focus on one of their Science areas in EDSE361 and EDSE358 and the other Science area in EDSE362 and EDSE357.

Students may take up to three Teaching Areas from HSIE. Students undertaking one HSIE Teaching Area are required to undertake EDSS311 and the specialised curriculum method unit. Students undertaking two or more Teaching Areas in HSIE are required to undertake both EDSS311 and EDSS312, as well as the specialised curriculum units. EDSS312 should be completed before attempting the second specialised curriculum unit.

When undertaking 12 credit points due to holding another teaching area, the following 2 units must be studied:
EDSE346 Secondary Education: Agriculture 7-10
EDSE347 Secondary Education: Agriculture 11-12

When undertaking 12 credit points due to holding another teaching area, the following 2 units must be studied:
EDSEE361 Science Education: 7-10 Foundation for Teaching
EDSE358 Science Education 11-12: Plan, Assess and Report

*Candidates who have been approved for two Science Teaching Areas (Biology or Chemistry or Earth and Environmental Science or Investigating Science or Physics) must complete all 24cps in Curriculum Methods AND must ensure that they focus on one of their Science areas in EDSE361 and EDSE358 and the other Science area in EDSE362 and EDSE357.

When undertaking 12 credit points due to holding another teaching area, the following 2 units must be studied:
EDSEE361 Science Education: 7-10 Foundation for Teaching
EDSE358 Science Education 11-12: Plan, Assess and Report

*Candidates who have been approved for two Science Teaching Areas (Biology or Chemistry or Earth and Environmental Science or Investigating Science or Physics) must complete all 24cps in Curriculum Methods AND must ensure that they focus on one of their Science areas in EDSE361 and EDSE358 and the other Science area in EDSE362 and EDSE357.

When undertaking 12 credit points due to holding another teaching area, the following 2 units must be studied:
EDSEE361 Science Education: 7-10 Foundation for Teaching
EDSE358 Science Education 11-12: Plan, Assess and Report

*Candidates who have been approved for two Science Teaching Areas (Biology or Chemistry or Earth and Environmental Science or Investigating Science or Physics) must complete all 24cps in Curriculum Methods AND must ensure that they focus on one of their Science areas in EDSE361 and EDSE358 and the other Science area in EDSE362 and EDSE357.

When undertaking 12 credit points due to holding another teaching area, the following 2 units must be studied:
EDEE330 Secondary English: Theory and Practice
EDEE331 Secondary English: Language, Literature, Literacy

When undertaking 12 credit points due to holding another teaching area, the following 2 units must be studied:
EDIT301 Teaching Secondary Computing Studies: Foundation
EDIT302 Teaching Secondary Computing Studies: Advanced

When undertaking 12 credit points due to holding another teaching area, the following 2 units must be studied:
EDSEE361 Science Education: 7-10 Foundation for Teaching
EDSE358 Science Education 11-12: Plan, Assess and Report

*Candidates who have been approved for two Science Teaching Areas (Biology or Chemistry or Earth and Environmental Science or Investigating Science or Physics) must complete all 24cps in Curriculum Methods AND must ensure that they focus on one of their Science areas in EDSE361 and EDSE358 and the other Science area in EDSE362 and EDSE357.

When undertaking 12 credit points due to holding another teaching area, the following 2 units must be studied:
EDME392 Junior Secondary Mathematics Education 7-10
EDME394 Senior Secondary Mathematics Education 11-12

All 5 curriculum units below must be undertaken when completing Mathematics/Physics as a Teaching Area.

When undertaking 12 credit points due to holding another teaching area, the following 2 units must be studied:
EDAE395 Secondary Music Pedagogy Y7-10
EDAE397 Secondary Music Pedagogy Y11-12

When undertaking 12 credit points due to holding another teaching area, the following 2 units must be studied:
EDSEE361 Science Education: 7-10 Foundation for Teaching
EDSE358 Science Education 11-12: Plan, Assess and Report

*Candidates who have been approved for two Science Teaching Areas (Biology or Chemistry or Earth and Environmental Science or Investigating Science or Physics) must complete all 24cps in Curriculum Methods AND must ensure that they focus on one of their Science areas in EDSE361 and EDSE358 and the other Science area in EDSE362 and EDSE357.

When undertaking 12 credit points due to holding another teaching area, the following 2 units must be studied:
EDIT301 Teaching Secondary Computing Studies: Foundation
EDIT302 Teaching Secondary Computing Studies: Advanced

When undertaking two or more HSIE areas the following two units must be studied in addition to the specific units associated with your approved Teaching Areas:
EDSS311 Secondary Education: Society and Environment Curriculum 1
EDSS312 Secondary Education: Society and Environment Curriculum 2

Complete 6 to 24 credit points depending upon the number and combination of teaching areas:

Note: Candidates undertaking more than 2 teaching areas are encouraged to undertake PREX304-6 as one of their Listed Elective Education Units. Especially if the Teaching Areas are unrelated, as this can lead to difficulty in covering placement requirements for all Teaching Areas, across the Core Units placement units.

Candidates are required to pass the National Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students prior to commencing their final professional experience placement.

Candidates are also required to successfully complete the Graduate Teacher Performance Assessment during their final professional experience placement.

See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.

Fees and scholarships

How much will it cost?

Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:

Fee typeCost
Full Fee
$23,664*
International
$28,762*
Commonwealth Supported Place (quotas apply)
$4,686*
Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time$351
*The costs will depend on the units you choose to study as the cost of individual units vary. “Estimated fees” are provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking a study load of 48 credit points in the first year of this course. For courses that require less than 48 credit points the fees indicated are based on the total credit points required for completion of that course. For more information, please see fees and costs.

*Annual course fees only cover the cost of tuition. They do not include other expenses associated with university study such as text books, accommodation and living expenses. If you are successful in gaining admission to study at UNE, the Offer of Admission will list the exact tuition fees you need to pay for your course. Fees quoted cover full-time tuition for two full-time trimesters only. For more information, please see fees and costs.

What are the course fee payment options?

A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.

If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.

Full Fee places are mostly in postgraduate coursework degrees. In a full fee place you pay the tuition fee set for your course, however you may be eligible for a FEE-HELP Loan to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.

If you are enrolled in a Full Fee place and there is a direct connection between your work and your study, you may be able to claim your tuition fees as a tax deduction.

UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.

UNE scholarship applications are free and confidential. You may apply for more than one scholarship.

Scholarships

UNE offers bursaries and scholarships that can help you with the costs of studying and living in Australia.

The UNE International Bursary reduces the published annual tuition fees for international students by up to 20%. These bursaries are available for international students commencing coursework studies at UNE in 2024. View detailed Bursary information.

UNE also offers a number of substantial research scholarships to postgraduate students studying research-based degrees.

Your career

Career outcomes

Did you know UNE is a leader on the provision of online learning for current and future teachers? Our world-class online platform gives you the flexibility to balance your study with work, family and other commitments. Career opportunities for graduates with a Master of Teaching (Secondary) include:

  • secondary school teacher in the public or private sector
  • further opportunities for education leadership positions, for example, education manager.

UNE offer the following Teaching Areas:

  • Agriculture
  • Ancient History
  • Biology (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Business Studies/Commerce
  • Chemistry (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Drama
  • English as an Additional Language/Dialect (EAL/D)
  • Earth and Environmental Science (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Economics/Commerce
  • English
  • Geography
  • Information Processes and Technology
  • Investigating Science (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Modern History
  • Languages†
  • Legal Studies
  • Mathematics
  • Mathematics/Physics (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Music (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Physics (First Teaching Area Only)
  • Software Design and Development 
  • Society and Culture
  • Studies of Religion

 

† Chinese, Classical Languages (Latin and Greek), French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese and Spanish.

Professional recognition

On completion of the Master of Teaching (Secondary) you will have a qualification accredited with the New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA), providing graduates with a professional qualification meeting the requirements of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) for initial teacher education programs, and ensures all graduates meet the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers at the Graduate Career Stage.

Teacher Registration: Students should note that teacher registration requirements vary from state to state. UNE bases its degree structures on the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) guidelines, under the AITSL framework for teacher registration. It is the responsibility of each student to check their eligibility to teach with the relevant state authority (including students who intend to teach in NSW).

Applicants are advised to check with potential employing bodies regarding employment requirements. As of the date of publication, the NSW Department of Education requirements can be found here. Both public and private sector schools can set eligibility requirements relating to academic performance (including GPA requirements) in a student’s degree, among other criteria. Requirements to teach internationally can vary from country to country.

Course outcomes

The Master of Teaching (Secondary) provides graduates with an accredited professional qualification meeting the requirements of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) for initial teacher education programs, and ensuring all graduates meet the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers at the Graduate Career Stage.
  1. know students and how they learn. Have a current knowledge and understanding of research into teaching, learning and child development and how to apply such research to the needs of the students in the secondary school;
  2. know the content of their teaching discipline/s and how to teach it/them;
  3. plan and implement effective teaching and learning with a high level of personal autonomy and professional accountability;
  4. assess, provide feedback and report on student learning. Communicate, negotiate, collaborate and advocate effectively and relate well to all the school's community;
  5. engage in professional learning and set personal targets and take responsibility for their own development. Demonstrate a knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to the field of Education, and plan and execute a substantial research-based project and/or piece of scholarship; and
  6. create and maintain supportive and safe learning environments, and engage professionally with colleagues, parents/carers and the community. Behave with integrity underpinned by moral purpose, model values and ethical perspectives in relation to own and the school's practice and organisation. Promote democratic values including active citizenship and inclusion.
Knowledge of a Discipline

Graduates will demonstrate mastery of subject content relevant to the teaching profession and an understanding of the multicultural nature of the modern classroom and high school and be able to apply a global perspective to their classroom activities.

Communication Skills

Graduates will be able to communicate using a wide range of media, both orally and in writing, as appropriate to a Secondary school setting; they will be able to present well-reasoned arguments to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Problem Solving

Graduates will demonstrate creative problem solving techniques in their subject area by their ability to conceptualise problems in their teaching area and to formulate and enact effective solutions as they relate to the teaching profession.

Information Literacy

Graduates will demonstrate a capacity to search for, evaluate and critically analyse information and disseminate it in a socially responsible way to their students.

Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility

Upon graduation students will be able to appreciate and acknowledge the social and ethical implications of their actions. They are able to contribute responsibly to the wider community and appreciate the importance of broader social issues.

Lifelong Learning

Graduates will have the ability to develop, evaluate and implement personal learning strategies and reflect this by exercising curiosity, creativity and creative thinking.

Independence and Collaboration

Graduates will be able to independently apply their knowledge and skills in their professional practice. In addition they will be able to negotiate, assert their own values and respect the values and contributions of others whilst participating in team based activities.

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024
Woman studying online at home

Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.

We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*

*The Good Universities Guide

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024
Woman studying online at home

Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian University.

As an international student you can take advantage of flexible online study from overseas or while you are studying in Australia on a visa other than a student visa. You can’t study fully online on a Student Visa.

To study online from overseas you need to consider that you may need to travel to Australia to attend a UNE campus for some mandatory intensive schools.

Studying on Campus

Whether you are an undergraduate student coming to study in Australia for the first time, a PhD student coming to live here with your family, or you only need short-stay accommodation whilst in Armidale for Intensive Schools, we have the perfect accommodation option for you.

Find out more about studying on campus

Stay connected

Register your interest and we'll keep you updated

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Why study with us?

Master of Teaching (Secondary) graduate Andrea Jaggi in UNE vest

Choosing to continue into postgraduate study at UNE was an easy decision. My study experience throughout my undergrad was supportive, engaging and prepared me to further my education.

Andrea Jaggi, graduate, Master of Teaching (Secondary)

Why study with us?

UNE student amid autumn colours Armidale campus

As postgraduate students, we are shaped to think and create, and empowered to make educated decisions that very well relate theory to practice. My journey has given me inner confidence.

Mari Connie Maningo, UNE Master's graduate

How to apply

Applying to UNE is quick and easy. If you are an
you can apply at any time. Apply now and we'll get you started in the next possible intake.

Preparing to apply

You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.

The kind of documents you need will depend on:

  • Your preferred course/s
  • Your personal circumstances
Applying to UNE is quick and easy. If you are applying as a
, the application process may be a little different depending on who you are and what you want to study.

Preparing to apply

You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.

The kind of documents you need will depend on:

  • Your preferred course/s
  • Your personal circumstances

Important Dates

Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.

If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.

IntakeApplication Closing DateTrimester Start Date
Trimester 116 February 202426 February 2024
Trimester 214 June 202424 June 2024
Trimester 311 October 202421 October 2024

Important Notice for Prospective Students

For accurate, up-to-date details on entry requirements, course structure, and other essential information, please consult the UNE Student Handbook before applying or enrolling. The Handbook provides comprehensive guidance to assist in your decision-making process. We apologise for any inconvenience.