Doctor of Education

The Doctor of Education (EdD) program at the University of New England is a comprehensive advanced qualification designed for experienced educational professionals seeking to deepen their expertise and enhance leadership capabilities within educational settings. This doctoral program focuses on the development of scholarly research skills, innovative practice, and strategic leadership to address complex challenges in education across diverse contexts. Participants will engage in rigorous coursework, exploring topics such as educational policy, curriculum development, organizational leadership, and research methodologies, all tailored to foster practical application and impactful change. The program emphasizes a flexible learning approach, allowing students to balance their professional responsibilities with academic pursuits through online modules, workshops, and supervised research projects. Candidates are encouraged to investigate real-world issues in education, aligning their research with their professional interests and community needs. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical implications, preparing graduates to assume senior leadership roles, influence policy, and contribute to continuous improvement in educational environments. Throughout their studies, students will benefit from the expertise of renowned faculty members, collaborative learning opportunities, and access to extensive resources and networks within the university. The EdD at UNE aims to cultivate reflective practitioners who are capable of leading innovative initiatives, fostering inclusive learning communities, and making evidence-based decisions to advance educational quality and equity. Upon successful completion, graduates will be equipped to serve as transformative leaders, researchers, policymakers, and educators committed to advancing the field of education through effective leadership, scholarly inquiry, and dedicated service.

Mission and Overview:
The Bachelor of Education (Primary) at the University of New England is designed to prepare future educators with the essential knowledge, skills, and values necessary to excel in primary school teaching environments. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates educational theory, practical teaching methods, and recent innovations in early childhood education. Our goal is to develop confident, reflective, and innovative teachers capable of fostering inclusive and engaging learning experiences for diverse student populations.

Program Structure and Content:
The Bachelor of Education (Primary) spans over four years of full-time study, combining theoretical coursework with extensive practical placements. Students will explore a wide range of topics including child development, curriculum design, classroom management, assessment strategies, and inclusive education. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding developmental psychology, literacy and numeracy instruction, science and technology education, as well as arts and humanities, equipping graduates with a rounded pedagogical skill set.

Practical Experience:
A key feature of the program is its strong focus on practical teaching experience. Students engage in supervised teaching placements in primary schools across the region, enabling them to apply their theoretical knowledge in real classroom settings. These placements are carefully integrated into the curriculum, gradually increasing in intensity and responsibility to build confidence and competence. Support from experienced mentors ensures that students develop reflective teaching practices and a professional identity aligned with contemporary educational standards.

Special Features:
The program exposes students to the latest educational technologies and innovative teaching strategies to prepare them for the evolving landscape of primary education. It promotes inclusive education practices and cultural competence, ensuring graduates can effectively support diverse learners. Additionally, the program fosters research skills and encourages ongoing professional development, preparing students for careers in teaching, education policy, and related fields.

Career Opportunities:
Graduates of the Bachelor of Education (Primary) are qualified to work as primary school teachers across Australia and internationally. The program also prepares students for further study in education and related disciplines. Employers value the program’s rigorous academic training combined with hands-on experience, enabling graduates to make meaningful contributions to the educational community and positively impact student learning outcomes.

Why UNE:
The University of New England offers a supportive learning environment with dedicated faculty members who are experts in education. Our curriculum is aligned with national teaching standards and designed to prepare students for successful careers in primary education. UNE’s commitment to innovation and community engagement ensures graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern classrooms and to foster lifelong learning among their students.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Education (Primary) at the University of New England include completing a total of 240 units comprising core curriculum units, professional practice, and electives. Students must undertake a sequence of pedagogical units covering curriculum areas such as English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Creative and Visual Arts, ensuring a comprehensive foundation in primary education teaching. Prospective students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in literacy and numeracy as mandated by regulatory standards. Entry into the program typically requires high school completion with requisite academic achievement, including completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) with suitable grades in relevant subjects. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements, generally demonstrated through standardized tests such as IELTS with a minimum overall score of 7.0 and no band below 6.5, or equivalent certifications. The program emphasizes practical teaching experience, requiring students to undertake supervised placements in primary schools across diverse settings. These placements are integral to the curriculum, providing real-world teaching experience and assessment of pedagogical skills. Candidates are also expected to complete vocational education and training components, including participation in workshops, seminars, and reflective practices aimed at developing professional competencies. Background checks, including a Working with Children Check, are mandatory prior to placement to ensure suitability for working with children. Successful completion of all coursework, practicum requirements, and meeting professional standards is necessary for graduation, upon which graduates are eligible for teacher registration. The program also encourages ongoing professional development and engagement with contemporary educational research and practices to prepare graduates for evolving classroom environments.

Financing for the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education) at the University of New England can be approached through multiple sources of funding, including scholarships, government loans, university bursaries, and external financial aid programs. Students are encouraged to explore the Australian Government’s Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), which provides income-contingent loans to eligible students, allowing for deferred payment of tuition fees until the graduate’s income reaches a specified threshold. The university offers a range of scholarships designed to assist students financially during their studies, including equity scholarships for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, merit-based scholarships recognizing academic excellence, and specific grants for regional and Indigenous students. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden and are awarded based on criteria such as academic performance, financial need, or community involvement. Additionally, students may seek external financial support from government and private sector grants, financial aid organizations, and sponsorship opportunities specific to early childhood education professions. Part-time employment opportunities may also be available on campus or in the local community, providing supplementary income to support living expenses and study costs. The university’s financial aid office offers comprehensive guidance and counseling to help students navigate application processes for these funding options and plan their finances effectively throughout their course duration. Students are advised to regularly check the university’s official website and contact the financial aid office for the most current information regarding available funding sources, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria to ensure they make well-informed financial planning decisions for their studies at UNE.

The Bachelor of Nursing at the University of New England is designed to prepare students for a professional career in nursing. The program provides a comprehensive education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of healthcare environments. Students will engage in a variety of learning experiences, including lectures, tutorials, case studies, and clinical placements, which enable them to develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. The curriculum covers essential topics such as human anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and community health, among others. Clinical placements are integrated throughout the program, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, community health centers, and aged care facilities. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethical decision-making, and cultural competence, preparing graduates to work effectively with diverse populations. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) and pursue registration as Registered Nurses. The program is structured to meet the accreditation standards set by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), ensuring quality and consistency in nursing education. The University of New England also offers pathways for students interested in postgraduate studies or specialized nursing fields, supporting lifelong learning and career advancement. The university’s focus on rural and regional health issues provides additional opportunities for students to develop expertise in public and community health, which are vital areas of nursing practice. Overall, the Bachelor of Nursing at UNE aims to produce competent, compassionate, and ethical nursing professionals who can contribute positively to health outcomes across diverse communities.