C10208v5 Bachelor of Education Bachelor of Arts in International Studies

Overview

This combined degree prepares students to teach in schools from kindergarten to Year 6, ensuring they are well equipped to meet the challenges of local and international teaching. It is a practice-based course that aims to produce high-quality graduates through an integrated program combining the latest educational theory with professional experience. In the fourth year, students undertake a year of in-country study at an overseas university.

The degree is for students who want a strong practice-oriented primary education qualification and the benefit of learning and studying another language and culture, which includes a year living overseas studying in their country of choice. It may appeal to students who want an international study experience or are aiming for an international career.

Course aims

This combined degree aims to provide students with the professional education necessary for preparation for primary teaching, while at the same time providing an opportunity to acquire knowledge and understanding of another language and culture.

Career options

Career options include a primary school teacher (kindergarten to Year 6) in a public or private school, a curriculum consultant, educational researcher or educator in a community setting such as a hospital, community or migrant education centre. Career options in primary school teaching and teaching English as a second language overseas are enhanced by international experience.

Assumed knowledge

Competency in English and mathematics is a requirement. To gain employment as primary teachers in NSW schools, students must have achieved: HSC minimum Band 4 in English Advanced, Standard English or English as a Second Language, and HSC General Mathematics minimum Band 4 or completion of Mathematics or Extension Mathematics to an equivalent standard. At UTS, students who do not have the requisite HSC Mathematics are provided with a concurrent pathway to complete an equivalent course in general mathematics. Similarly, students who do not demonstrate the requisite HSC English are required to attend intensive workshops where they are provided with specific tuition.

Course duration and attendance

The course duration is five years of full-time study. The course may also be undertaken at a reduced load, provided it is completed within six years. Students spend two semesters of study at a university or other higher education institution in the country of their major. The international studies component of the course is offered at City campus only.

Course structure

Students are required to complete 252 credit points of study, comprising 156 credit points in teacher education and 96 credit points in international studies.

The teacher education component includes three streams:

• Key learning areas: develops student knowledge of the primary school syllabus and builds pedagogical skill in its implementation.
• Professional experience: builds student knowledge and skill in core aspects of teaching and learning practice, applies that practice in the field, and reflects on it critically in subsequent course elements.
• Contextual studies: where knowledge of the influences on students, on their evolving sense of themselves and their place in the social and physical world, and on their learning is examined.

The Bachelor of Arts in International Studies requires undergraduates to study a region or country major over a minimum of three years. It is not offered as a separate degree, but is completed only in combination with the professional degree program.

Course program

Professional recognition

The course provides a teaching qualification recognised by the NSW Department of Education and Training, Association of Independent Schools, Catholic Education Office, and is also recognised internationally. Accreditation of the primary teacher education component of the course is through the New South Wales Institute of Teachers (NSWIT). To gain employment as a teacher in NSW schools, graduands must meet the requirements of the NSWIT, including language proficiency.

Other information

Further information on the teacher education component is available from UTS: Education on: