COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Education at Southern Cross University is designed to prepare graduates for teaching careers both in Australia and internationally. This evidence-based program draws on the Faculty of Education’s leadership and research in teacher training, providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to both local and global educational contexts. The course offers pathways into five main teaching areas, including Early Childhood/Primary for ages six weeks to Year 6, Primary education with specialisations in English, Science, and Mathematics, combined Primary/Secondary education with a Primary specialisation and a Secondary specialisation, Secondary education with two specialisations, and Secondary Design and Technology with options in Industrial Technology or Food and Fibre alongside another Secondary specialisation. In the first year, students gain a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy, and subject content, as well as exposure to contemporary issues in education. Core units include education philosophy, English and literacy foundations, mathematics and numeracy, science and technology, and understanding the brain and learning processes. The program also integrates professional experience from early on, enabling students to apply theory to practice in real-world classroom settings. In addition, students engage in studies focused on Indigenous education, sustainability, inclusive and special education, and curriculum and pedagogy across multiple disciplines. Across the four-year full-time equivalent degree, students undertake progressive learning that builds both academic knowledge and practical teaching skills, including multiple professional experience placements in Early Childhood and Primary settings. The program emphasises the development of competent, reflective, and innovative educators who are prepared for a diverse and evolving educational environment. All students are required to undertake the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education (LANTITE) in their first year to ensure proficiency in these essential skills. Graduates emerge ready to teach, lead, and innovate in educational contexts, equipped with the skills to support student learning and development while contributing positively to the wider community and the teaching profession.