C04255v1 Master of Teaching in Secondary Education

Overview

This teacher education preparation course provides students with a master's qualification to teach in NSW secondary schools. Students who have both the required undergraduate degree and specialisation subjects can complete the course in two years of full-time study or 1.5 years in accelerated mode. The course offers major studies in English, Mathematics, Science, PDHPE, Mathematics/Science and HSIE (Business Studies/Economics).

The core component provides research-based studies of educational theory and practice as a basis for professional decision-making in the secondary school context; the major component provides teaching methods; and the professional experience component includes both campus-based and field-based experiences, and is available in each of the specialisation areas.

This course is a NSW secondary school teaching preparation course. It is suitable for students about to graduate with a bachelor's degree and for mature-aged graduates who are changing careers and want a teaching qualification. It includes an intensive professional experience program where students spend 60 days in practical experience teaching, and offers extensive, structured and closely supported experiences of secondary school teaching in different settings. The course has the flexibility to enable students who have completed most but not all of the required undergraduate specialisation subjects to undertake the additional required subjects as part of the degree.

Course aims

The aim of this course is to enable future teachers and educational leaders to generate advanced knowledge of educational practice, pedagogy, policy, curriculum and systems; to inquire into and research practice to improve educational experiences and outcomes; to build the capability to critically analyse, reflect on and synthesise theories of learning and teaching; to develop extensive knowledge and respect for diverse societies, cultures and abilities to inform inclusive practices; to apply their understanding and skill with creativity and expert judgment; to become professionals with a profound ethical foundation, sense of social responsibility and a commitment to social justice; to operate as autonomous professional learners in changing global communities; to become effective communicators highly skilled in new literacies; and to make well-informed contributions to contemporary debates pertinent to education.

Career options

Career options include secondary school teaching in the chosen specialisations.

Course duration and attendance

This course is offered on a two-year, full-time or equivalent part-time basis. Students may elect to complete the course over a one-and-a-half-year, full-time accelerated program.

Course structure

Students must complete 96 credit points made up of 48 credit points of core subjects, a 36-credit-point major and 12 credit points of electives.

The core subjects draw on the foundation education disciplines of learning, motivation and adolescent psychology as well as addressing the education of students with special needs. There is also a research project or capstone in the final semester. The major component provides subjects that draw on teaching methods in the specific discipline area including incorporating key areas such as literacy and numeracy into lessons. The professional experience component aims to develop the professional knowledge, skills and values needed by an effective educator in students' major area.

Course program

Example programs for students undertaking the course full-time and in accelerated mode are shown below.

Professional recognition

This course has received professional accreditation by the Board of Studies, Teaching and Educational Standards (BOSTES) as a recognised secondary school teaching qualification. To gain employment as a teacher in NSW schools, graduands must meet the requirements of the BOSTES, including language proficiency.

Other information

Further information is available from UTS: Education at: