USC will introduce a Master of Teaching (Secondary) in Semester 2 this year that will give aspiring teachers the opportunity to be qualified in time for the 2019 school year.

The degree is designed for university graduates who have completed non-Education Bachelor degrees, and includes an intensive delivery option for those who want to complete the two-year study program in just 18 months (or three years part time).

The Master of Teaching (Secondary) has replaced the Graduate Diploma of Education due to new professional accreditation requirements for teachers. USC will be among the first universities in the country to introduce the new degree.

The program builds on students’ qualifications with the skills needed to become a fully qualified high school teacher in subjects as diverse as science, visual arts, English, drama, technology or business.

Professor of Education Shelley Dole said the Master of Teaching (Secondary) enabled people from a range of backgrounds to promote their expertise to the next generation.

“This degree is perfect for both recent graduates building on Bachelor qualifications, as well those who are looking to change paths after working in a different profession,” she said.

“The USC program allows students to get into classrooms, interact with students and teach small classes from the very first semester of their program.

“We also run a financially supported and guided program for rural and remote placements, so students could have the opportunity to undertake a placement in an area like Mt Isa, Charleville, or Far North Queensland.”

Professor Dole said USC had one of the highest full-time employment rankings of all Australian public universities for education graduates.

“There’s a very high demand for USC teaching graduates in all disciplines,” she said. “More than 85% of our graduates are in full-time employment – well above the national average.

“We place a major focus on building students’ practical experience, and give them the confidence to manage diverse classrooms and a range of learning needs. USC has fantastic relationships with schools across the State, Catholic and independent systems.”

Applications are now open for mid-year entry to study at USC, starting Semester 2 on 24 July. Details on how to apply for more than 90 undergraduate and postgraduate programs can be found at the USC website.

— Gen Kennedy