StudyQA — Bachelor: Education Primary — University of South Australia

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The Bachelor of Education (Primary) program at the University of South Australia is designed to prepare aspiring educators for a rewarding career in primary school teaching. This comprehensive undergraduate degree provides students with a solid foundation in educational theory, pedagogical practice, and subject-specific knowledge necessary for teaching children in the critical years of their development. Over the course of the program, students engage in a blend of theoretical coursework and practical teaching experiences, enabling them to apply their learning in real classroom settings. The curriculum covers core areas such as literacy, numeracy, science, arts, and social sciences, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to foster a supportive and engaging learning environment for diverse student needs. The program emphasizes contemporary teaching strategies, inclusive education, technology integration, and classroom management skills, preparing graduates to meet the evolving demands of primary education. Throughout their studies, students will participate in professional placements in local schools, gaining valuable hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced educators. The University of South Australia’s Bachelor of Education (Primary) also promotes reflective practice, encouraging students to continuously evaluate and improve their teaching methods. Graduates of this program are eligible to obtain teacher registration and are prepared to work as primary school teachers across Australia and potentially internationally. The program’s flexible delivery modes, including full-time and part-time options, allow students to tailor their study to fit their personal circumstances. With access to modern facilities, dedicated academic staff, and active partnerships with local schools, the University of South Australia provides an excellent environment for aspiring educators to develop their professional identity and skills. Graduates leave the program ready to inspire and support young learners, contribute positively to their communities, and pursue ongoing professional development throughout their careers.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Education (Primary) degree will have a broad and coherent body of knowledge in professional experience, professional and discipline-specific curriculum studies and education studies. Graduates will develop an in-depth understanding of the underlying principles and concepts of curriculum and pedagogy development for learners from Reception to Year 7. Graduates will also choose a primary studies minor in areas ranging from technology, mathematics, catholic studies, humanities and social sciences, health and physical education, visual arts to drama and languages.

The Bachelor of Education (Primary) is a four year degree. The students will complete 144 units of study comprising core courses and courses that are specific to the primary specialisation. The students as pre-service teachers undertake 18 units of minor to develop a specific area of study or a selection of optional courses as electives.

Students will be required to undertake a criminal history screening through the Department of Communities and Social Inclusion (DCSI). The clearance will be valid for three years. The criminal history screening must be completed prior to being accepted for a placement and can take up to six to eight weeks to be processed. Strict confidentiality is maintained during the DCSI clearance process. If a student fails to obtain clearance for any reason, the University cannot accept responsibility for obtaining a professional experience placement or any other professional experience activity which is a compulsory part of the program and they cannot graduate with an education degree from the University.

Entry requirements

To be eligible for selection, applicants are required to:

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and

obtain a competitive ATAR, and
meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C-

Alternatively, applicants can fulfil one of the following requirements with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements, and other academic requirements for the program:

Complete secondary education qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points, or
Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above, or
Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Diploma level or above, or
Qualify for Special Entry, or
Complete a University Foundation Studies program

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign language must have attained 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 the University of South Australia. 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.

English language test

IELTS total: - 7.0
IELTS reading: - 7.0
IELTS writing: - 7.0
IELTS speaking: - 7.0
IELTS listening: - 7.0

Each year, more than 2,500 students at the University of South Australia benefit from scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. We welcome high achieving students from developing countries who are supported by the Australian government program, Australia Awards. We also host around 500 students who are sponsored by their home government, university or employer.