Why Graduate Diploma in Education Studies?
Educators play a critical role in shaping students' knowledge, values and skills, empowering them to succeed in life. They inspire confidence, spark curiosity and foster resilience in learners.
The evolving nature of education, with new technologies and methodologies, means you're continuously learning, whether through professional development or keeping up with new knowledge and teaching strategies.
Our Graduate Diploma in Education Studies will help you stay at the cutting-edge of education. It’s not an accredited degree if you want to become a teacher – it is for people who already hold a teaching qualification, to take your career beyond the classroom.
Overview
This diploma is designed for professionals in education: school leaders, teachers, educational consultants, trainers and students who already hold a qualification in teaching and would like to make an impact in a leadership role.
The Graduate Diploma of Education Studies can open doors to meaningful, education-focused careers outside of traditional teaching roles.
You’ll take core courses that give you a thorough grounding in current educational theories and practices supported by the latest research.
Dip your toe back into study without the commitment of a full masters. Our curriculum is contemporary and stackable. You can start with a Graduate Certificate in Education Studies and count it towards this Graduate Diploma. Then, use the Graduate Diploma as a stepping stone to the Master of Education.
Adelaide University is ranked #89 in the world for Education Studies (Times Higher Education, 2026). You can also choose to study this program at our regional campuses in Mount Gambier and Whyalla.
Key features
Study contemporary education topics, taught by world class researchers in one year full-time or part-time equivalent. - Understand the latest developments in theory, research, debates and practices to improve student learning outcomes across a range of educational settings.
- Embrace ongoing professional development – whether you’re an aspiring or established leader – to drive change and innovation.
- Design and implement innovative digital learning approaches.
- Develop your skills as a trainer in higher education settings, including TAFE or at a university.
- Enhance your existing qualifications as an experienced teacher to pursue senior policy and consulting roles.
What you'll learn
Adelaide University’s Graduate Diploma of Education Studies explores a wide range of topics, to sharpen your research skills and knowledge in education.
You’ll study courses on:
- Research design in education
- Digital learning and artificial intelligence
- Education policies and systems
- Evidence-informed practice in education
- International comparative studies in education
- Families, communities and societal wellbeing.
Degree Structure: Graduate Diploma in Education Studies
Program code: GDEDS
Complete 48 units comprising:
- 24 units from Core courses, and
- 24 units from Specialisation courses
Courses
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
What courses you'll study
Complete 48 units comprising:
- 24 units from Core courses, and
- 24 units from Specialisation courses
Complete exactly 24 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Research Design in Education
|
Course code
EDUC5012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Introduction to Wellbeing in Education
|
Course code
EDUC5072
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Education Policies and Systems
|
Course code
EDUC5153
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Education Leadership in Diverse Contexts
|
Course code
EDUC6104
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Mixed Methods Research
|
Course code
EDUC6105
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Assessment and Evaluation
|
Course code
EDUC6106
|
Units
6
|
Complete exactly 24 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Leading Positive Change
|
Course code
EDUC5126
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Qualitative Methods for Education Research
|
Course code
EDUC5138
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Teaching and Learning in English Medium Instruction
|
Course code
EDUC5143
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Quantitative Approaches to Research
|
Course code
EDUC5209
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Leading Self and Others (UoA)
|
Course code
EDUC5210
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Evidence-Informed Practice in Education
|
Course code
EDUC5232
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Mentoring for Teachers
|
Course code
EDUC5245
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
The Brain and Learning
|
Course code
PSYCX200
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Beyond teaching, education offers roles in administration, curriculum development, counselling and edtech. There are many paths for advancement. You could oversee school operations, policies and staff as a school principal. Maybe you’ll design and implement educational programs and teaching materials as a curriculum developer. Perhaps you’ll be an education policy analyst, working with governments or organisations to shape education policy and reform.
You could also consider the following careers:
- Education consultant: advising schools or institutions on strategies to improve teaching and learning outcomes.
- Corporate trainer: developing and delivering employee training programs.
- Learning and development specialist: working within organisations to enhance employee skills and professional growth.
- Educational content creator: creating content for publishers, educational apps, or online courses.
- Education administrator: work in government agencies managing school systems or education programs.
- Study abroad program manager: managing study abroad programs and international student experience.
Industry trends
In Australian schools, several non-teaching roles are in high demand.
With the growth of personalised and digital learning, there is significant demand for professionals who can design and implement effective online educational content (Statista).
The Australian corporate training market was valued at $4.9 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 6.6% between 2024 and 2032. By 2032, the market is expected to reach AUD 8.6 billion (Claight).
There are also approximately 28,300 school principals employed across Australia, indicating a substantial job market for educational leaders (Jobs and Skills Australia).
Ready to apply?
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your program team
Dr Ruth Aston
Program Director
College of Education, Behavioural and Social Sciences
School of Education
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
