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Bachelor of Education (Primary)

Shape the minds of the future.

  • Join an industry with an expected job growth of 5.1% by 2030
  • Gain practical experience in real Australian classrooms
  • Engage in teaching simulations using the latest VR technology
  • Build a solid understanding of language and literacy development, health and physical education, curriculum planning, and 21st-century teaching skills
  • Accredited by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT)
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100% Online

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Icon Qualification

Undergraduate

Qualification

Icon Duration

4 years full-time

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Icon Start Dates

Mar, Jul, Nov

Start Dates

Icon Units

32

Units

Icon Fees

$578.38*

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OVERVIEW

Are you ready to shape the young minds of future generations?

With a Swinburne Bachelor of Education (Primary) you will be qualified to teach in primary schools across Australia.

Led by experienced education professionals with recent or current classroom teaching practice, this course combines online learning with teaching placements in real school classrooms. Our students get great feedback from their placement schools – we ensure you are prepared and supported by our course tutors and advisors to make your placement a positive experience.

You’ll enter the classroom confident and ready to inspire your students after taking part in teaching simulations that allow you to experience what it’s like to teach a class using the latest VR technology.

As a Swinburne Online student, you will also have access to unique development opportunities as part of the Access Quality Teaching Initiative. Through this initiative you will be placed in professional experience placements in regional, remote and/or lower socio-educational advantage schools in Victoria, giving you valuable experience with a diverse range of educational communities.

When you graduate, you’ll be qualified to practice as a primary teacher, with accreditation from the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT).

This course is not available to international students.

Key Learnings Include

  • Classroom Management Techniques: Learn practical, age-appropriate classroom management techniques that help nurture a positive and dynamic learning environment for children aged 0–5.
  • Practical Skills for Early Childhood Teaching: Apply early-childhood specific learning techniques in group learning contexts, preparing dynamic lesson plans that harness the education potential of play and creativity.
  • Curriculum Planning: Create learning activities to engage students and develop their skills.
  • Child Behaviour: Understand why children display different behaviours and learn how to best approach them.
  • Health & Activity: Explore a range of issues surrounding children’s health, nutrition and safety.
  • Twenty-First Century Teaching: Embrace the role of being a teacher in an era of rapid change.

Professional accreditations

Kate-Graduation-BW

‘The benefit of studying online with Swinburne Online has allowed me to schedule my time efficiently and effectively around [my life]. I have been provided with a world-class education led by industry leaders and professionals.’

Kate, Swinburne Online Education graduate

5.1% ▴

As a Primary School Teacher, you’ll have a strong future ahead of you, with a 5.1% increase expected in the next five years. 

The Good Universities Guide 2024

Our undergraduate education courses have been awarded a five-star rating for overall experience, learning resources, skills development, teaching quality and student support.

‘The benefit of studying online with Swinburne Online has allowed me to schedule my time efficiently and effectively around [my life]. I have been provided with a world-class education led by industry leaders and professionals.’

Kate, Swinburne Online Education graduate

5.1% ▴

As a Primary School Teacher, you’ll have a strong future ahead of you, with a 5.1% increase expected in the next five years. 

Our undergraduate education courses have been awarded a five-star rating for overall experience, learning resources, skills development, teaching quality and student support.

The Good Universities Guide 2024

Swinburne Online

Your Pathway to the career of your dreams

Structure

Your course breakdown:

To be awarded the Bachelor of Education (Primary) you must complete 32 units in total made up of:

  • 13 Core Units
  • 15 Major Units
  • 4 Practicum Units

Each year is split into 3 Teaching Periods (14 weeks per Teaching Period). You can choose to study full-time or part-time depending on your preference.

What you'll study:

 

Introduction to Academic Language, Literacy and Numeracy in Education

Understanding Language and Literacy

The World of Maths

Theories of Teaching and Learning

Indigenous Education and Perspectives

Developing Literacy

Mathematics in Practice

Contemporary Perspectives of Learning and Development

Sustainable Education and Perspectives

Understanding and Supporting Behaviour

Social and Emotional Learning

Innovation for Education

Understanding and Supporting Inclusion

Mathematics in the Primary Classroom

Discovering Science

Families, Community and Citizenship

Health and Physical Education

Teaching in Australian Schools

Teaching Technologies

Teaching English

Teaching Science

Teaching Early Reading

Advocacy and Social Justice

Integrated Studies

Arts Education

Assessment for Primary School

Teaching the Humanities

Literacy and Numeracy Across the Curriculum

Teacher Well-Being, Resilience and Emotional Intelligence

Introduction to Curriculum Planning and Assessment for Primary: Practicum 1

Curriculum Planning and Assessment: Practicum 2

Curriculum and Pedagogy for Primary: Practicum 3P

Ready to Teach Professional Experience: Practicum 4P

Entry Requirements

Non-Year 12 entry

If you’re applying to Swinburne but haven’t completed Year 12, don’t worry! You can still apply if you have:

    • Completion of a VE Diploma in a related field from a public or dual sector TAFE, or Swinburne approved Registered Training Organisation (RTO)*.
    • Completion or partial completion of an approved tertiary qualification (including advanced diplomas, associate degrees and degrees). Additional performance criteria and prerequisite requirements may also apply.
    • Students admitted to the course with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this course may be eligible for academic credit of up to 16 units.

* Visit this website to determine if your RTO is public or dual sector. A public RTO will be listed as ‘Technical and Further Education Institute, Skills Institute, or Polytechnic.’ Dual sector RTO’s are listed as ‘University – Government’.

Year 12 entry

One of the following:

  • Successful completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or its equivalent, such as an interstate or
    international Year 12 qualification
  • Completion of an approved Diploma or Advanced Diploma
  • Completion or partial completion of an approved Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree

Course Pre-requisites

VCE Units 3 and 4: a minimum study score of 25 in any English (except EAL) or 30 in English as Alternate Language (EAL) or equivalent, and a study score of at least 20 in any Mathematics.

Additional requirements

CASPer

All applicants (both standard entry and non-year 12 entry) must successfully complete the CASPer assessment. CASPer is a non-academic suitability assessment tool designed to assess an applicant’s personal and professional attributes.

It is an Australian Government accreditation requirement that all initial teacher education courses include non-academic selection criteria.

To ensure you don’t miss the CASPer deadlines and to register for your sitting or for further information about the test, visit takecasper.com.

For current Year 12 students, to ensure you meet VTAC deadlines go to www.vtac.edu.au/admissions-tests.html.

Admission to this course will consider both academic and non-academic results.

If you’re looking to apply for our Bachelor of Education (Primary) course you will need to complete the CASPer suitability tool. Get in touch with a Course Consultant to find out more information.

English language proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate suitable English language proficiency for successful completion of the course.

The university may determine selection criteria and restrictions in respect of courses to apply in addition to these entry requirements.

Eligibility for admission does not guarantee offer of a place.

Working with Children Check and Police Check

All enrolled students must maintain a current Working with Children Check (from the appropriate State Authority). A Police Check may also be required by a school prior to a placement. For a list of each state’s requirements see the Care for Kids website.

Literacy and numeracy test for initial teacher education

To be eligible to graduate, students must pass the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education (LANTITE), which is required to become a registered teacher. This test is run externally at the applicant’s expense. Applicants must disclose all previous LANTITE attempts (if any) through a personal statement and upload the results for each attempt. Applicants who have unsuccessfully attempted LANTITE three or more times will not be eligible to receive an offer for this course.

Once enrolled, all applicants must provide relevant Child Safety Screening clearance as your state of residence requires and maintain clearances throughout the duration of the program.

Courses are only available to Australian and New Zealand citizens, permanent residents and humanitarian visa holders.

Need more info?

  • We have plenty of resources to help you! Visit our Applying and Enrolling FAQs or chat with a Course Consultant for advice on your specific situation.

Fees & Scholarship

  • The estimated fee per unit is $4,627*.
  • There are 32 units in this course, each unit is worth 12.5 credit point units.

*Note: Unit fees may change each year.

There are several ways to help manage your course fees:

  • Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP): Available to Australian Citizens and eligible Permanent Residents, and this will help reduce your course fees.
  • HECS – HELP Loans: Available to Australian Citizens, which will help you defer your fees.
  • Learn more about HELP Loans

There are a variety of Swinburne Scholarships to help reduce your costs:

  • University-funded scholarships
  • Government-funded scholarships
  • Private scholarships and prizes

Scholarships are available for both new and current students.

Please contact our Course Consultant to find out if you’re eligible for Swinburne Scholarships.

Credit for prior study:

  • Good news — if you’re awarded academic credit for prior study, your course fees could be lower! This means a cheaper degree!

Services & amenities fee:

For more details on scholarships and financial support, visit the Swinburne website or speak with a Course Consultant!

Career Outcomes

Career Opportunities

Let’s take a look at the wide range of roles you can pursue with a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) (average annual salaries via SEEK):

$103,000 Average Salary

Engage children with the learning process to develop their literacy and numeracy skills, and foster social, physical and emotional growth.

Engage children with the learning process to develop their literacy and numeracy skills, and foster social, physical and emotional growth.

$142,000 Average Salary

Lead the educational direction of a primary school and ensure the curriculum is taught to national standards.

Lead the educational direction of a primary school and ensure the curriculum is taught to national standards.

Prepare for a career the right way.

The Bachelor of Education (Primary) sets you on your way to graduate as a qualifies primary school teacher equipped with 21st-century teaching skills.

  • Development: Teaching encourages on-going learning and offers clear pathways for career advancement.
  • Hands-On Experience: The degree includes multiple teaching placements, giving you real-world classroom experience and making you job-ready from day one.
  • Transferable Skills: Learn valuable skills like collaboration, organisation, adaptability, communication, empathy, and patience.
  • Career Opportunities: This degree opens doors to work in regional, remote, and socio-educationally disadvantaged schools, providing diverse teaching experiences.

Online Study

An online study experience designed for you

Each degree is thoughtfully designed for online learning, ensuring your experience is fulfilling and supported. At Swinburne Online, we want to ensure that your journey with us is a success. Our team of academic and online experts have developed engaging, media-rich course materials using cutting-edge digital technology and advanced teaching resources.

Your online study journey

 

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Here’s what you can expect

  • Personalise your study journey with full-time or part-time options — 100% online, no travel needed.
  • Start when it suits you with multiple intake dates.
  • Study on your terms, balancing life, family, and work — anytime, anywhere.
  • Stay connected with students and industry experts through discussion boards and virtual classrooms.
  • Get support 7 days a week for general help whenever you need it.
  • Learn with confidence with dedicated online tutors for each unit, ready to answer all your academic questions.

 

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Your online classroom - Canvas

Canvas is where all your classwork will take place. You’ll experience engaging lectures, tackle assignments, and connect with others on lively discussion boards. All within an easy-to-use platform. Stay on top of your progress, plan your studies with ease, and set your own pace — whether you want to fast-track your degree with up to 12 units a year or take it slow with part-time study. It’s all about balancing your studies with the rest of your life!

FLEXIBLE STUDY AT SWINBURNE ONLINE

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Your Online Campus: The Student Hub

  • The Student Hub is your one-stop online university campus where you’ll have access to course management tools, technical support, library resources, and more!
  • Find everything you need to manage your studies and university services.
  • Stay connected and empowered throughout your learning journey all from one easy to use location.
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Dedicated student support

We’re there for you each step of the way. Our dedicated Student Advisors are your go-to guides. They’ll help you through your enrolment, course planning, technical support and other questions you might have.

    • Our Online Learning Advisors (OLAs) will assist you with unit information, learning material, assignments, and referencing.
    • We strive to support you from enrolment to graduation, ensuring your success.
    • With continuous access to guidance and resources for a smooth study experience, you’re never alone with Swinburne Online.

Learn more about units, fees, entry criteria, career outcomes and more.

Download a course guide

The Swinburne Online-SEEK connection

The suite of Swinburne Online Business degrees provides students with the opportunity to forge connections within the industry. Students hear from industry leaders and work with real-life clients with demonstrated experience within their respective fields, such as SEEK.