Faculty of Education

FAQs for students considering studying the Master of Teaching (Primary).

1. What are the closing dates for application and where do I apply?
2. What is the selection process for entry to the Master of Teaching Primary?
3. How long is the course?
4. When does the course commence?
5. Do I have to pay fees up front?
6. Are there any pre-requisites for the Master of Teaching (Primary)?
7. Can I study part-time?
8. Can I study externally?
9. Is the workload heavy?
10. Why a Master's degree?
11. Where can I find further information regarding the course?

Q1:  What are the closing dates for application to the Master of Teaching (Primary) and where do I apply?

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A: Applications close on the 30 November and offers are made mid December. Domestics students need to complete an application form and apply directly to the Education Faculty. International students need to apply through the International Centre.

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Q2: What is the selection process for entry to the Master of Teaching (Primary)?

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A: Selection is competitive and is based on academic merit and a statement outlining why you want to be a teacher.

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Q3: How long is the course?

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A: The Master of Teaching (Primary) is a two year course. The course is structured so that you complete in late September of the second year. This allows you to apply for teacher registration and to start to apply for positions in the following school year.

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Q4: When does the course commence?

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A: The course commences on 22 February 2010. The first year of study ends in mid-November. The second year of study ends in late September.

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Q5: Do I have to pay fees up-front?

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A: The Master of Teaching (Primary) is a Commonwealth supported course for citizens of Australia, permanent residents, New Zealand citizens and holders of humanitarian visas.

Please note that as part of a Commonwealth initiative to support teachers, from 2010 students who graduate from a pre-service teaching course and who subsequently take up teaching, will have their HELP debt repayments reduced.

Australian citizens, and holders of humanitarian visas who are resident in Australia for the duration of the course, may defer their payment via HECS-HELP. Permanent residents and New Zealand citizens must pay up-front for the units in which they are enrolled each semester.

Further fee information.

International students should review the international fees or contact the International Centre for further information.

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Q6: Are there any pre-requisites for the Master of Teaching (Primary)?

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A: The only pre-requisite for the Master of Teaching (Primary) is a three-year bachelor’s degree.

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Q7: Can I study part-time?

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A: Yes, you can study part-time and the course coordinator will help you decide which units to enroll in. The School Experience units are offered only as full-time units.

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Q8: Can I study externally?

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A: No, the course is not offered externally.

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Q9: Is the workload heavy?

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A: While the workload is not unlike that of a graduate teacher, it is heavier than in a typical undergraduate year.  Although the contact time varies between semesters, prospective students should note that there is a great deal of out-of-class work to be done in preparation for workshops, seminars, assessment tasks and School Experience.

Students who suffer from an illness or condition which may be exacerbated by stress should consider their options carefully and discuss their particular circumstances with the course coordinator.  While the staff of the University can offer support, it is important that you can manage the condition during the School Experience.

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Q10: Why a Master's degree?

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A: The Master of Teaching degree involves two years of intensive study of education that prepares highly skilled professionals who have a deep understanding of teaching and student learning and the potential for future leadership roles.

The core component of the course is the teaching of literacy and numeracy. The program has a strong clinical focus on teaching children who have difficulty in reading and maths. Students will be introduced to the breadth of learning required in primary teaching including science, music, dance, visual arts, health and physical education and have the opportunity to practise their teaching skills in two extended school placements.

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Q11: Where can I find further information regarding the course?

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A: Review the course information.

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