Graduate Certificate in Education

Postgraduate | 2026

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Mode icon
Mode
Mode
This program can be studied mostly online, but in-person participation is mandatory for certain core courses, workshops and placements.
On Campus
Start date icon
Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February, July
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Campus
Duration icon
Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load. Part-time study is not available for international students.
0.5 year(s) full-time
Program code icon
Program code
GCEDU
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Study as
Full-time
Fees
Indicative annual fees
Indicative annual fees
Published fees are for international students starting in 2026. Where the duration of the program is less than one year, the total cost of the program is displayed. Adelaide University also accepts applications for programs commencing after the advertised year. Tuition fees for these later years are likely to be higher.
$21,700, per 0.5 of a year
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Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
N/A
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Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
N/A
English Language Requirements icon
English language requirements
IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6 IELTS Listening 6 IELTS Speaking 6 IELTS Writing 6 Equivalent English qualifications
CRICOS code icon
CRICOS code
115804H
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved one of the following minimum entry requirements and fulfill any essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution; OR

A minimum of five years relevant work experience.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

  • IELTS Overall 6.5
  • IELTS Reading 6
  • IELTS Listening 6
  • IELTS Speaking 6
  • IELTS Writing 6

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications
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Note:

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026. 

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.  

Find an Education Agent 

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents. 

Why Graduate Certificate in Education?

Empower students and educators to reach their full potential. 

As contemporary education transforms through new technologies and a deeper understanding of learner diversity, schools are increasingly focused on creating inclusive environments, enhancing student wellbeing, and personalising approaches to learning.  

Educational leaders tackle these challenges head-on by integrating diverse perspectives into the curriculum and supporting colleagues in utilising new technologies safely to effectively reduce administrative pressures.  

Our Graduate Certificate in Education equips you with the tools to improve educational systems, fostering environments where all students and educators can thrive. 

program overview

Overview

Our Graduate Certificate in Education is for education professionals wanting to upskill for specialist and leadership roles in educational settings. It also prepares you for higher education teaching, or to transition into research.  

Designed to be flexible, you’ll choose four courses aligned to your interests and career goals. Explore topics such as digital learning, neuroscience and education, and wellbeing and inclusion. You can also specialise by selecting four courses from a key area of focus – there are ten to choose from. 

You’ll gain an understanding of how different structures, social factors, and cultural elements in educational environments affect how students learn. 

You’ll analyse trends, theories and concepts in contemporary education to develop ways to improve student learning. 

Graduate in as little as one year — six months of part-time study — ready to make an impact in education. 

You can also gain full credit for these studies (four courses) towards our Graduate Diploma in Education or Master of Education.  

What you'll learn

Adelaide University’s Graduate Certificate in Education gives you the freedom to explore your interests in education and study four postgraduate courses that align with your career goals. 

You have the option to choose to study a variety of topics or specialise by selecting four courses from a key area of focus. 

Specialisations

The Graduate Certificate in Education is also available with specialisations in the following: 

The Brain and Learning  

Explore how the brain learns, remembers, and retains information to support equity and excellence in learning for all students. 

Catholic Education 

Gain a deep understanding of Catholic education practices, principles and policies. 

Digital Learning  

Become skilled in digital learning environments and how to use data to understand and improve student learning.

Early Childhood  

Learn about the importance of play in early childhood education and ways to support children’s wellbeing and development. 

Education Leadership and Innovation 

Become a positive leader and mentor, learning effective leadership strategies to boost student learning outcomes. 

First Nations, Cultures and Perspectives  

Explore the history and culture of Australia’s First Nations Peoples and how this knowledge can inform all areas of learning and life in Australia. 

Islamic Education  

Learn about the philosophy of Islamic education and how it applies to curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment. 

Research 

Contribute to educational knowledge through a research project and develop key research skills. 

TESOL 

Prepare to teach English to speakers of other languages, recognising policy contexts and being able to respond to learner diversity. 

Wellbeing and Inclusion 

Learn to lead the development of sustained school and community wellbeing and raise educational outcomes for students with diverse learning needs. 

Please note, this graduate certificate does not provide a recognised qualification for teaching in schools. For this pathway, see our Master of Teaching, which has specialisations in: 

Design a study path that works for you

This degree is part of a stackable set of qualifications, meaning your study choices are flexible. If your goals shift, you can exit after six months of study with a standalone Graduate Certificate or after one year with a Graduate Diploma qualification. 

You can also begin your studies with a shorter qualification like the six-month Graduate Certificate and continue on to complete the Graduate Diploma (one year) or full master’s degree. 

What courses you'll study

Complete 24 units comprising:

  • 24 units from Core courses

Complete exactly 24 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Understanding Complexities Impacting Families and Communities in Early Years
Course code
EDUC1097
Units
6
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Course name
Research Design in Education
Course code
EDUC5012
Units
6
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Course name
Learning, Memory and Education
Course code
EDUC5110
Units
6
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Course name
Neuroscience and Education
Course code
EDUC5111
Units
6
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Course name
The Science of Learning
Course code
EDUC5112
Units
6
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Course name
Learning Analytics
Course code
EDUC5117
Units
6
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Course name
Artificial Intelligence in Education and Training
Course code
EDUC5118
Units
6
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Course name
Learners in a Digital Age: Innovative Practices
Course code
EDUC5119
Units
6
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Course name
Digital Learning Design and Implementation
Course code
EDUC5120
Units
6
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Course name
Instructional Leadership
Course code
EDUC5125
Units
6
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Course name
Leading Positive Change
Course code
EDUC5126
Units
6
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Course name
Mentoring for Leadership
Course code
EDUC5127
Units
6
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Course name
Leading Self and Others
Course code
EDUC5128
Units
6
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Course name
Curriculum and Policy for First Nations Education
Course code
EDUC5130
Units
6
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Course name
Culturally Responsive Pedagogy in First Nations Education
Course code
EDUC5131
Units
6
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Course name
Leading Australian First Nations Education
Course code
EDUC5132
Units
6
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Course name
Advanced Quantitative Methods for Education Research
Course code
EDUC5137
Units
6
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Course name
Advanced Qualitative Methods for Education Research
Course code
EDUC5138
Units
6
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Course name
Teaching and Learning in English Medium Instruction
Course code
EDUC5143
Units
6
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Course name
Inclusive Education for Diversity
Course code
EDUC5145
Units
6
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Course name
Leading Wellbeing and Inclusion in Education
Course code
EDUC5146
Units
6
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Course name
Wellbeing for Positive and Inclusive Communities
Course code
EDUC5147
Units
6
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Course name
Culturally Responsive Pedagogies
Course code
EDUC5148
Units
6
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Course name
Mixed Methods Research
Course code
EDUC6105
Units
6
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Course name
Children's Growth and Development
Course code
EDUCX100
Units
6
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Course name
Early Childhood Education: Contexts, History, Philosophy, Frameworks
Course code
EDUCX101
Units
6
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Course name
Islamic Education: Principles and Praxis
Course code
EDUCX104
Units
6
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Course name
First Nations Peoples, Knowledges and Culturally Responsive Teaching
Course code
EDUCX107
Units
6
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Course name
Play-based Learning, Theories and Pedagogies
Course code
EDUCX113
Units
6
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Course name
Catholic Scriptures: An Introduction
Course code
EDUCX203
Units
6
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Course name
Catholic Theology: An Introduction
Course code
EDUCX204
Units
6
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Course name
Islamic Education: Quality Teaching and Learning
Course code
EDUCX212
Units
6
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Course name
Contemporary Issues in TESOL Education
Course code
EDUCX234
Units
6
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Course name
Islamic Education: Managing Learning Environments
Course code
EDUCX302
Units
6
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Course name
Curriculum Design in Catholic Education
Course code
EDUCX413
Units
6
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Course name
Curriculum Development in EALD/TESOL
Course code
EDUCX414
Units
6
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Course name
Catholic Schools: Identity, Mission and Practice
Course code
EDUCX500
Units
6
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Course name
Islamic Education: Critical Perspectives on Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment
Course code
EDUCX501
Units
6
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Course name
Multilingualism, Plurilingualism and Translanguaging in Language(s) Education
Course code
EDUCX503
Units
6
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Course name
The Brain and Learning
Course code
PSYCX200
Units
6

Notes

  • Students must choose courses in line with desired degree pathway

Course name Course code Units
Year 1
Semester 1
Course name
Course code
-
Units
6
Course name
Course code
-
Units
6
Course name
Course code
-
Units
6
Course name
Course code
-
Units
6

Ready to apply?

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Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

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Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

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Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.

How to Apply

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.


Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university. 

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus. 

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

  • Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
  • Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities. 
  • Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
  • Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
  • Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
  • On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
  • Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
  • An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
  • Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
  • Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
  • A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
  • A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission. 

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

  • February for Semester 1  
  • July for Semester 2. 

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

  • Career advice and mentoring services
  • Personal counselling
  • LGBTQIA+ support
  • Academic support
  • Fees and finance help
  • Security services
  • Accommodation services
  • Common rooms
  • Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week. 

 

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
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