Postgraduate | 2026

Master of Education

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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
Campus
This program is taught across multiple campuses and students may be required to study at more than one campus in order to complete the degree.
Duration icon
Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load. Part-time study is not available for international students.
2 year(s) full-time
Mode icon
Mode
Mode
Your study will be a mix of online and on-campus classes.
Hybrid
Program code
Program code
MAEDU
Study as icon
Study as
Full-time
Fees
Indicative fees
Indicative fees
Published fees are indicative for 2025 , including the compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) and appropriate yearly indexation. This is based on the total number of units studied for this program on an annual full-time basis. Please note that your tuition fees may be subject to an annual increase.
$41,300
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
None
Assumed knowledge icon
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
None
English Language Requirements icon
English language requirements
IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications
CRICOS Code icon
CRICOS code
115907A
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least 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) or bachelor honours (AQF level 8) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution; OR
  • A completed nested or related graduate certificate (AQF level 8) or higher from a recognised higher education institution.

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 6.0
  • IELTS Listening 6.0
  • IELTS Speaking 6.0
  • IELTS Writing 6.0

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

Why Master of Education?

The education landscape is undergoing significant and exciting transformations. The decisions made today may resonate for generations. That’s why we need visionary leaders who can interpret research, see new possibilities and drive systemic change.  

How can we alleviate pressure on teachers? What will help neurodivergent students – and teachers – reach their potential? How can we ensure viewpoint diversity in our classrooms? 

As an educational leader, you’ll tackle big questions of equity, inclusion and engagement. Redefine how systems operate to better serve communities. Lead the charge towards a smarter, more adaptive future.  

program overview

Overview

Our Master of Education is designed for professionals working in the education industry including school leaders, teachers, educational consultants and trainers wishing to pursue leadership opportunities within schools. It is also suitable as preparation for higher education teaching, or to transition into research. 

Gain an in-depth understanding of the latest educational theories, research, practices and debates. Reflect on and expand your leadership and management skills across diverse settings. Build a formidable toolkit to help you drive meaningful change.

What you'll learn

In the Master of Education, you’ll explore a range of leadership tactics and strategies. Investigate different approaches to enhancing community wellbeing at the systemic level. Unpack educational policies – and complete a major research project to advance your educational practice. 

You’ll choose from 10 exciting specialisations to match your interests and career goals:  

  • The Brain and Learning 
  • Catholic Education 
  • Digital Learning 
  • Early Childhood 
  • Education Leadership and Innovation 
  • First Nations, Cultures and Perspectives 
  • Islamic Education 
  • Research 
  • TESOL 
  • Wellbeing and Inclusion.  

 This degree offers flexible hybrid delivery, which includes a mix of on-campus and online study. 

Specialisations 

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

  • Early Childhood Education 
  • Primary 
  • Secondary.  

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

  • 66 units for all Core courses, and
  • 24 units for Discipline courses , and
  • 6 units for Electives

Complete 66 units for ALL of the following:

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Understanding Complexities Impacting Families and Communities
Course code
EDUC5010
Units
6
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Course name
Research Design in Education
Course code
EDUC5012
Units
6
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Course name
Evidence-Informed Practice in Education
Course code
EDUC5107
Units
6
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Course name
International Comparative Studies in Education
Course code
EDUC5108
Units
6
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Course name
Education Policies and Systems
Course code
EDUC5153
Units
6
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Course name
Research Communications
Course code
EDUC6023
Units
6
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Course name
Education Leadership in Diverse Contexts
Course code
EDUC6104
Units
6
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Course name
Mixed Methods Research
Course code
EDUC6105
Units
6
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Course name
Assessment and Evaluation
Course code
EDUC6106
Units
6
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Course name
Education Major Project
Course code
EDUC6107
Units
12

Complete 6 units comprising:

  • 6 units from Free electives

Complete 24 units for one of the following:

  • 24 units from Discipline courses- The Brain and Learning, or
  • 24 units from Discipline courses- Catholic Education, or
  • 24 units from Discipline courses- Digital Learning, or
  • 24 units from Discipline courses- Early Childhood, or
  • 24 units from Discipline courses- Education Leadership and Innovation, or
  • 24 units from Discipline courses- First Nations, Cultures and Perspectives , or
  • 24 units from Discipline courses- Wellbeing and Inclusion, or
  • 24 units from Discipline courses- Islamic Education, or
  • 24 units from Discipline courses- Research, or
  • 24 units from Discipline courses- TESOL

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Brain, Learning and Education
Course code
EDUC5109
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

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Catholic Schools: Identity, Mission and Practice M
Course code
EDUC5024
Units
6
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Course name
Catholic Theology: An Introduction
Course code
EDUC5114
Units
6
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Course name
Curriculum Design in Catholic Education
Course code
EDUC5116
Units
6
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Course name
Catholic Scriptures: An Introduction M
Course code
EDUC6001
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
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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

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Play-based Learning, Theories and Pedagogies
Course code
EDUC5001
Units
6
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Course name
Children's Growth and Development
Course code
EDUC5007
Units
6
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Course name
Understanding Complexities Impacting Families and Communities
Course code
EDUC5010
Units
6
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Course name
Geographical Studies  
Course code
EDUC5040
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
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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
Critical Orientations to School Leadership
Course code
EDUC6016
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
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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
First Nations Peoples and Knowledges and Culturally Responsive Teaching
Course code
INDG5000
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
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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

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Islamic Education: Critical Perspectives on Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment M
Course code
EDUC5025
Units
6
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Course name
Islamic Education: Principles and Praxis
Course code
EDUC5133
Units
6
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Course name
Islamic Education: Quality Teaching and Learning
Course code
EDUC5134
Units
6
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Course name
Islamic Education: Managing Learning Environments
Course code
EDUC5135
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
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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
Education Dissertation Part 1
Course code
EDUC5139
Units
6
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Course name
Education Dissertation Part 2
Course code
EDUC5140
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
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Course name
Curriculum Development in EALD/TESOL
Course code
EDUC5141
Units
6
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Course name
Learning English as an Additional Language
Course code
EDUC5142
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
Multilingualism, Plurilingualism and Translanguaging in Education
Course code
EDUC5144
Units
6

How 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.

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.


From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

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, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat 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 (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
  • Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights 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 our 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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