Overview
Be in demand for a rewarding science-teaching career, with a Bachelor of Science/Master of Teaching (Secondary Education) at VU.
There is a huge shortage of qualified science and maths teachers in Australia. Our Bachelor of Science/Master of Teaching (Secondary Education) leads to a career that is both needed and valued. It combines a science degree with a Master of Teaching (Secondary), which has accreditation from the VIT to teach in Australian schools.
You'll benefit from intensive hands-on laboratory and fieldwork experience in your chosen science discipline, accessing modern laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment.
When you progress to your teaching masters, you'll gain significant workplace experience to prepare you for the real world of teaching through our extensive partnerships.
Choose a major in our Bachelor of Science that matches your interests, and work with one of our advisers to pick units that are compatible with the teaching subject methods offered in the Master of Teaching (Secondary Education).
An in-demand area of education
A recent Australian Education Union national school survey highlighted the shortage of maths and science teachers around the country.
In the State of Our Schools 2016 Report, 51 per cent of responding principals had maths and science classes taught by teachers without a specialisation in those subjects. It also showed that 37 per cent of those principals had openings for maths and science teachers (ABC news).
This puts you in an excellent position to find work when you graduate.
Work placement & industry projects
The College of Sport, Health and Engineering offers valuable work experience opportunities. It has research and project collaborations with:
- other researchers
- industry
- business
- not-for-profit organisations
- schools
- the community.
The collaborations with schools and community organisations will be particularly beneficial to your teaching career.
Women in Science
Our Women in Science & Engineering program supports our current university students, and inspires women to choose engineering and science careers.
We run hands-on workshops in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines for secondary-school students. This gives you the opportunity to encourage future mathematicians and scientists, as well as practise your teaching skills.
100% fee-free study (scholarships for eligible students)
The Victorian Government is investing more than $93.2 million to deliver scholarships to support secondary teaching degree students with the cost of studying and living. Scholarships will be available to Victorian students who enrol in Victorian secondary school teaching degrees in 2024 and 2025, with further payments if they then work in Victorian government secondary or specialist school settings after they graduate.
A campus with everything
Footscray Park has everything you need, all set a pleasant stroll from the Maribyrnong River and parklands.
Facilities include:
- aquatic and fitness centre
- modern science laboratories
- learning common spaces with WiFi, tables and chairs
- restaurants and café
- state-of-the-art science equipment.
Our library gives you constant access to online resources from wherever you are. It has 300 computers, and several study rooms for your use.
Learning advice
VU’s Learning Hubs are welcoming spaces where you can improve your study and employability skills.
Our students can attend Learning Hubs at one of five VU campuses.
We offer maths, writing, careers and English-language advice and can show you effective ways to study and manage your time.
Our programs include:
- workshops
- drop-in sessions
- peer mentoring
- maths and writing resources
- resume and career guidance.
We also have accessibility support services and counselling services available to all students.
Study overseas while earning course credits
At VU you can spend part of your degree studying overseas all while gaining credits towards your course.
Immerse yourself in a new culture and learn from a new perspective, while building experiences that will help you to stand out in the competitive job market.
Need some advice?
Request a call back from one of our experienced VUHQ course advisers to get your questions answered.
Request a call backCareers in science education
When you graduate from the Bachelor of Science/Master of Teaching (Secondary Education), and have passed the National Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education, you can register with the VIT to teach maths and science in secondary schools.
You'll be able to teach secondary science subjects such as biotechnology, chemistry, and ecology and environmental management.
You'll also be well-placed to deliver training and development outside the school setting, in:
- industry
- government
- workplaces
- community settings.
Salaries
Find average salaries are from the government site, Labour Market Insights:
Literacy & numeracy test
The Literacy and numeracy test administered by ACER is a requirement for all students undertaking a teaching qualification.
During the final year of the Bachelor of Science, (prior to starting the Master of Teaching (Secondary Education) component of this course), you will need to meet the threshold requirements of the Literacy and Numeracy Test for accreditation. If you do not achieve the required threshold in this test, you will exit the program with your completed undergraduate degree.
Course structure
To attain the Bachelor of Science, students will be required to complete 288 credit points of study (equivalent to 24 units), consisting of:
- 96 credit points (8 units) of Core first year units
- 96 credit points (8 units) of Major studies
AND either
- 96 credit points (8 units) of second Major studiesOR:
- 96 credit points (8 units) of Minor studies.
Students must have successfully completed the Bachelor of Science before they can commence the Master of Teaching (Secondary Education).
To complete the Master of Teaching (Secondary Education) students will be required to complete 192 credit points in total consisting of:
- 96 credit points Core units
- 48 credit points Discipline Studies
- 48 credit points from Option A or Option B
Students are required to pass the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education (LANTITE) in order to be eligible to graduate from their Victorian Institute of Teaching-accredited program.
Option A
- 48 credit points Thesis unit/sOR
Option B
- 48 credit points Capstone unit and Elective unit
Additional Notes
- Thesis and capstone units can only be taken towards the end of your course.
- To be eligible to apply for doctoral study, it is recommended that students choose to complete the Minor Thesis units(EED6031 and EED6032).
- Students are required to pass the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education (LANTITE) prior to commencement of the second year placement units.
- Students will need to monitor the VIT website for details in relation to the tests that will be considered; a link to advice and fact sheets about the test and to the external test provider. Refer to www.vit.vic.edu.au
Course structure and units
Achieve more with the VU Block Model
We are the first Australian university to use a 'block' model of learning, where you study one unit at a time rather than juggling several at once.
Introduced in 2018, the VU Block Model has improved our student results and achievements, and has won awards for innovation and excellence. Initially for first-year students, it now applies to all students studying at our Melbourne campuses.
You'll study in short bursts, called blocks, of three 2-3 hour face-to-face teaching sessions per week.
Each block focuses on one unit (subject) and is only four weeks long, with up to four days between. Our two semesters have four blocks each, and there are optional blocks over winter and summer where you can catch up on a missed unit.
Some courses have labs and pracs too, and these are generally scheduled on the same days as teaching sessions. There are also workshops where you'll develop your study skills and prepare for your future career.
Find out more about the VU Block Model.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
| 1. | Locate, evaluate and apply scientific information efficiently and effectively; | ||
| 2. | Identify and solve problems with intellectual independence using scientific principles in a range of situations taking into consideration social, cultural, economic and environmental factors; | ||
| 3. | Exhibit high levels of numeracy skills in the analysis and interpretation of quantitative scientific data; | ||
| 4. | Communicate effectively in spoken and written forms on a range of scientific and mathematical topics to peers, professional and community groups; | ||
| 5. | Apply an evidence-based research approach, formulate and test hypotheses in a chosen scientific discipline; | ||
| 6. | Respond with social and cultural awareness within local and global environments; | ||
| 7. | Devise and apply scientific methodology, individually and with peers, to undertake laboratory exercises, scientific research and practical investigations, employing ethical principles and practice and industry and research protocols; | ||
| 8. | Critically examine historical and contemporary issues in post-primary education at a local, national and international level; | ||
| 9. | Review different pedagogical theories and academic concepts of teaching that support the diversity of learners found in post primary educational settings; | ||
| 10. | Critically review curriculum materials and resources that support the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives across the curriculum in schools with a view to promoting reconciliation in today's society; | ||
| 11. | Analyse the literacy and numeracy learning needs of students across the full range of abilities including students with disabilities and special learning needs; | ||
| 12. | Plan, implement and evaluate a range of educational practices that support the diversity of students in post primary education; | ||
| 13. | Analyse the efficacy of classroom teaching practices through reflective discussion that draws upon pedagogical theories; | ||
| 14. | Employ advanced skills in research to work with educational stakeholders in educational settings; | ||
| 15. | Design, conduct and report educational inquiry / research; | ||
| 16. | Apply knowledge and skills within classrooms and the school community to develop inclusive cultures of learning where all school students are supported to achieve; | ||
| 17. | Communicate clearly and effectively through presentations and interactive activities, key concepts that related to the graduate's specialist teaching area. |
What's a unit?
A unit or 'subject' is the actual class you'll attend in the process of completing a course.
Most courses have a mixture of compulsory 'core' units that you need to take and optional elective units that you can choose to take based on your area of interest, expertise or experience.
Credits
Each unit is worth a set amount of study credits based on the amount of time you study. Generally, 1 credit is equal to 1 hour of study per week.
Fees & scholarships
Fee type for this course: Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Fee type definitions
The amount you pay for your course depends on whether you’re offered a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) or a full fee-paying place.
Students who enrol in a:
- Commonwealth supported place pay tuition fees that are partly subsidised by the Australian government
- full fee-paying place need to pay the full amount for all enrolled units before census each study period.
In addition to your tuition fees, you may also be charged a Student Services & Amenities Fee (SSAF).
Scholarships & assistance
Apply for a scholarship to help with your study costs.
We can help with fee assistance and advice.
Admissions
Victoria University is committed to providing a transparent admissions process. Find out more about how to apply for our courses, and our commitment to admissions transparency.
Applicants for this course will need to have met the academic requirements and prerequisites for this course outlined below.
Meeting the minimum admission criteria does not guarantee entry into this course. Past academic performance may be considered.
Admission criteria
The minimum criteria for admission varies depending on your education background. If you’re not sure which criteria applies to you, use the help tool on this page or make an enquiry and we can assist.
Applicants with recent secondary education (within the last 2 years)
- Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (e.g. VCE) or
- an Australian or overseas equivalent or
- an International Baccalaureate (IB).
Importance of ATAR for this course
We consider both ATAR and other criteria
ATAR is not a consideration. We use other criteria
Admission criteria
Completion of an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (VCE or equivalent) including Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English.
PLUS:
A study score of at least 20 in Mathematics (any).
Why is ATAR not applicable?
You will not need an ATAR score to meet the admission requirements for this course. Only the successful completion of your secondary school studies, and any additional prerequisites. Our courses and support programs are designed to prepare students from diverse cultures for success, regardless of their prior experience, ATAR, age, socioeconomic or educational background.
Applicants with vocational education and training (VET/TAFE) study
This information is for people who have completed an accredited award at an Australian Registered Training Organisation.
Admission criteria
Completion of an Australian Advanced Diploma or Diploma (or equivalent).
OR:
Completion of the Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation (or equivalent).
OR:
Completion of a Certificate IV in a related Science/Health discipline.
Applicants with higher education study
This information is for people whose highest level of study since leaving secondary education is a higher education course.
Admission criteria
Full or partial completion of an Australian Higher Education award (or equivalent).
OR:
Completion of two units of Higher Education studies.
OR:
Completion of a bridging or enabling course eg. Foundation course or equivalent.
Applicants with work & life experience
This information is for applicants who left secondary school more than two years ago and who have not undertaken VET or higher education study since then.
Admission criteria
Five years (minimum) work/life experience in the Health Sciences or similar.
OR:
Applicants that completed an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate more than two years ago..
PLUS:
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English (or equivalent).
PLUS:
A study score of at least 20 in Mathematics (any).
Additional information
Students will also have to satisfy the national requirements for teacher registration through satisfactory completion of the National Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students prior to starting the Master of Teaching (Secondary Education) or within the first year of the program.
Selection will also include completion and results of a non-academic attributes assessment CASPer (or equivalent) test. CASPer is an online test designed to assess and applicant's personal and professional attributes and is a requirement for many initial teacher training courses in Victoria.
Students should note that they will be subject to a Working With Children Check (police checks) before practice placements, in accordance with Department of Education and Training policy.
Pathways & credits
There are many ways you can start your education journey at VU. Pathways offer an easy transition between courses at different levels, so that you can start with a certificate and progress right through to postgraduate study.
Pathways from VU courses
Find out more about pathways and credits.
Credit for skills and past study
Use our credit calculator to find out how much credit you could get towards your course, based on your previous study.
If you have completed study with another university or institution and believe you are eligible to receive credit for skills and past study, you can apply for advanced standing.
Applications for advanced standing can be made after a discussion with your course chair or academic adviser.
How to apply
Available start dates:
- 24 February 2025
- 28 July 2025
Before you apply
Before applying, you should consider whether you also want to apply for:
- Special admission programs: Depending on your life circumstances you may be eligible for special consideration of your application.
- Advanced standing: If you have significant experience or studies elsewhere you may be eligible for credit for some units of your course and not have to undertake them.
Find out more about applying for our courses.
Apply through VTAC
Apply through VTAC if any of the following apply to you:
- you are applying for more than one course
- you are completing Year 12 in 2023
- you have an existing VTAC application to study in 2024
VTAC very late applications are due 14 January 2025.
Apply via VTACSpecial Entry Access Scheme
You can apply for consideration of your life circumstances during the application process by submitting a VTAC Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) application.
Apply direct to VU
Apply directly to VU if any of the following apply to you:
- you are a current VU student
- you are only applying for this course and are not completing Year 12 in 2023
Direct applications are due on 16 February 2025 for our next intake which starts on 24 February 2025.
Already a VU student?
If you are already a VU student, apply direct to VU using our Admissions centre to transfer into this course. Remember it’s best to be accepted into your new course before withdrawing from your current one.
After you apply
- It’s important to check for emails from us (which may go to your spam/junk folder).
- Complete any requests for information by the given dates, otherwise your application may not be considered
Enquire now
Please fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you shortly.
Get help
- Visit a student service centre
- 1300 VIC UNI (1300 842 864)
- Request a call back
- Visit the glossary
At Victoria University, we aim to display accurate and complete course information online. However, we are unable to guarantee that every course change is currently displayed. You may contact the University directly on +61 3 9919 6100 to confirm the most up-to-date course fees, pathways and credit transfer, recognition of prior learning, admission and enrolment procedures, examinations and services available to our students.
