Bachelor of Secondary Education (Science)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Canberra

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Secondary Education (Science) at University of Canberra is a comprehensive 4-year program designed for students who are passionate about teaching science and inspiring future generations of learners. The degree combines educational theory, scientific knowledge, and professional teaching experience to prepare graduates for successful careers in secondary education.

Curriculum Structure

First Year

In the first year, students establish a strong foundation in education and science teaching through units such as Introduction to Education and Science Curriculum and Pedagogy. These subjects introduce key teaching principles, classroom communication skills, and strategies for engaging students in scientific inquiry and learning.

Second Year

The second year focuses on developing deeper scientific understanding and pedagogical skills. Students undertake units such as Biology for Educators and Chemistry for Educators, building subject expertise while exploring innovative teaching methods that support diverse learning styles and classroom engagement.

Third Year

In the third year, students strengthen their classroom management, curriculum planning, and assessment skills through advanced educational studies and supervised teaching experiences. Practical placements in secondary schools allow students to apply theoretical concepts in real classroom settings and gain confidence in teaching science subjects.

Fourth Year

The final year emphasizes professional readiness, leadership, and advanced teaching practice. Through units such as Professional Experience and Assessment and Reporting in Education, students complete extended school placements and refine their teaching strategies, assessment techniques, and leadership capabilities in preparation for professional teaching careers.

Focus Areas

  • Science education
  • Pedagogical strategies
  • Curriculum development
  • Classroom management
  • Assessment and reporting
  • Student engagement in STEM learning

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the program will be able to:

  • Develop and implement effective science teaching strategies
  • Foster student engagement and scientific inquiry
  • Apply curriculum and assessment frameworks in secondary education
  • Support diverse learners through inclusive teaching practices
  • Demonstrate professionalism and leadership in educational settings

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is accredited in line with the standards of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL), ensuring graduates meet the national professional requirements for teaching in secondary schools across Australia.

Reputation and Employability

The University of Canberra is recognized for strong graduate employability outcomes and practical learning opportunities. Through professional placements, research engagement, and industry connections, students graduate with valuable classroom experience and the employability skills highly valued in the education sector.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Canberra, the Bachelor of Secondary Education (Science) program is designed to equip you with practical skills that are essential for a successful teaching career. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing you to engage in hands-on experiences that enhance your understanding of science education. You'll have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support your learning journey, ensuring you are well-prepared for the classroom.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:

- Practical Teaching Experience: You will participate in professional placements in schools, where you can apply your knowledge in real classroom settings and gain invaluable teaching experience.

- Laboratories and Research Facilities: The university boasts modern science laboratories equipped with the latest technology, allowing you to conduct experiments and engage in research projects that deepen your understanding of scientific concepts.

- Digital Tools and Software: You will have access to various educational software and digital tools that enhance your teaching methods and help you integrate technology into your lessons effectively.

- Collaborative Group Projects: The program encourages teamwork through group projects, where you can collaborate with peers to develop innovative teaching strategies and resources.

- Field Trips: You will have opportunities to participate in field trips that connect classroom learning with real-world applications, providing context to the scientific concepts you study.

- Library and Research Resources: The university's library offers extensive resources, including access to academic journals, textbooks, and online databases that support your research and learning.

- Supportive Learning Environment: The university provides various support services, including academic advising and mentoring, to help you succeed throughout your studies.

Embark on your journey to becoming an inspiring science educator today!

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Bachelor of Secondary Education (Science) at University of Canberra prepares students for a rewarding career in secondary science education through a strong combination of scientific knowledge, educational theory, and hands-on teaching experience. Graduates develop the practical teaching skills, leadership abilities, and subject expertise needed to inspire students and foster curiosity in science classrooms.

The program emphasizes curriculum planning, classroom management, scientific inquiry, and innovative teaching practices while providing valuable opportunities to apply learning in real educational environments. Through laboratory work, professional placements, collaborative projects, and research engagement, graduates gain the confidence and experience needed to succeed in modern secondary education settings.

Career pathways for graduates may include:

  • Secondary Science Teacher: Teach science subjects in secondary schools and encourage students to develop scientific understanding and critical thinking skills.
  • STEM Education Specialist: Support the development and delivery of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs within schools and educational organizations.
  • Curriculum and Learning Coordinator: Assist in developing science curriculum materials, lesson plans, and educational resources.
  • Educational Consultant: Provide expertise in science education, teaching strategies, and educational technologies.
  • Inclusive Education Teacher: Support students with diverse learning needs and create engaging, accessible science learning environments.
  • Community Science Educator: Deliver educational programs and outreach initiatives in museums, science centres, and community organizations.
  • Education Support Officer: Work with schools and educational institutions to support teaching, student engagement, and curriculum implementation.
  • Leadership Roles in Education: Progress into mentoring, coordination, and educational leadership positions through further study and professional experience.

Graduates may also continue their studies through postgraduate qualifications in educational leadership, curriculum development, STEM education, special education, or research, opening pathways to advanced and specialized careers within the education sector.

The University of Canberra’s strong focus on experiential learning, industry engagement, and practical teaching experience ensures graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in science education and beyond.

Program Key Stats

$34,000
$4,738


No

Eligibility Criteria

***
N/A
24
65

1020
18
7.5
102
60

Additional Information & Requirements

Country Requirements

Career Options

  • Secondary school teacher
  • Science teacher
  • Chemistry teacher
  • Biology teacher
  • Earth and Environmental Science teacher
  • Physics teacher
  • Maths teacher
  • Head of department
  • Principal
  • Deputy principal
  • Executive teacher
  • Head teacher welfare
  • Director of curriculum
  • Year adviser
  • Special needs teacher
  • Gifted and talented teacher
  • Relief teacher
  • Guidance officer
  • Careers adviser
  • Learning support teacher
  • Student adviser
  • Education adviser
  • Schools policy adviser
  • Vocational education and training instructor
  • Private tutor
  • Schools engagement coordinator

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