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Take the next step in your careerGain credit for your experience
Credit of one subject awarded for over two years of professional experience.Educating future generations for more than 50 years
The trusted leader in educating our educatorsFast Facts
Commencing
- Online: January, May, September
- Brisbane: January, May, September
Fees
$3,950+
$13,007^
+
total estimated Commonwealth Supported Fee
^
total estimated tuition fee
Plus Student Services and Amenities fee. Fee deferral and scholarships available if eligible
Currently displaying fees for 2026, which are subject to change in following years.
Duration
7 months full-time, with option to accelerate
1 year part-time
Entry Requirements
Completion of an AQF level 7 bachelor degree; or cognate AQF level 8 qualification; or at least five years relevant industry experience
Course Code
35111
Course detail
Take the next step in your career and become a leader in the field of Education. JCU’s Graduate Certificate of Education is designed for professionals currently working in Education, or who hold formal qualifications and want to meet their professional development needs by gaining specialist knowledge.
A strong focus on leadership is combined with opportunities to examine contemporary educational research relevant to diverse learning communities and contexts. You can select a major in either Educational Leadership or Educational Research. Successful completion of this course will see you eligible to progress directly into JCU’s Master of Education.
Build the advanced knowledge, experience and skills to be an educator that makes a difference on a personal level, as well as in organisation and policy. JCU Education graduates are highly valued due to their transferrable skills and understanding of the needs of diverse communities.
Benefit from the flexibility of online delivery, which allows you to organise your study around your work and other commitments. Online delivery will keep you connected to your lecturers and peers through workshops and interactive learning experiences.
Majors
A Graduate Certificate of Education at JCU offers two majors. Students can specialise in Educational Leadership or Educational Research.
Educational Leadership
Develop advanced knowledge and understanding of ethical practices within educational leadership. Critically reflect on current issues facing the profession and understand key aspects of becoming a leader and developing capacity in others. Embrace the future of Education by engaging with contemporary theories of educational leadership, learning how to work effectively with people in organisations and navigating the changing landscape of transformative digital learning. Become equipped to face local and global challenges to Education. Hone your curriculum design and implementation skills to lead pedagogical change with confidence.
Educational Research
Investigate a topic or issue of your choice within the field of Education. Plan and undertake a small-scale research project under the guidance of supportive lecturers committed to your success. Understand the principles of research design and become skilled in analysing and interpreting research data. Draw conclusions and highlight the implications of your findings for educational theory, policy or practice. You will become experienced in communicating your research and ideas to a variety of audiences.
View the handbook for more information.
Inherent requirements
Inherent requirements are the identified abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours that must be demonstrated, during the learning experience, to successfully complete a course. These abilities, attributes, skills, and behaviours preserve the academic integrity of the University’s learning, assessment, and accreditation processes, and where applicable, meet the standards of a profession. For more information please review the inherent requirements for the Graduate Certificate of Education.
A JCU Graduate Certificate of Education can lead to rewarding careers within a variety of roles.
Graduates work in leadership, education and communication in both public and private organisations.
You may also wish to continue your studies with a Master of Education. Graduates of this course frequently find employment as school leaders, corporate educators, community leaders, policy officers, and in other leadership roles across education.
Estimated annual Commonwealth Supported fee: $AUD3,950.00
Estimated annual tuition fee: $AUD13,007.00
A variety of Scholarships are available to suit different student types.
Learn more about fees and financial support
JCU offers multiple Pathways to University. If you do not meet the entry requirements for this course, consider exploring our available Pathways options.
Contact our friendly team today to discover which pathway is right for you.
To study online, please apply directly via our Online Application Portal.
To study on campus in Brisbane, please apply directly to JCU Brisbane.
Advance your career in education.
Build the expertise, confidence, and practical skills to lead, teach, and create real impact in diverse learning environments — with postgraduate study at JCU.
Real stories
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Course Coordinator
Associate Professor Louisa Tomas Engel
Graduate Certificate of Education
The Graduate Certificate of Education is ideal for teachers and others working in the education sector who wish to engage in further learning or upskill for career advancement. Students can study online while they work, and graduates may articulate into a Master of Education at JCU.
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Employer
Colette Wasson
Director, Human Resources Business Partnering, Education Queensland
The Department of Education finds JCU students to be equipped with the knowledge, skill set and willingness to make a difference in Queensland State Schools. Graduates leave JCU with a well-rounded ability to succeed in the classroom, while also stepping outside their comfort zone to begin their professional careers.
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Employer
Jacqui Francis
Executive Director, Townsville Catholic Education
JCU graduates come to us ready to take on the role of guiding and teaching our wonderful students. We recognise their enthusiasm, energy and their willingness to continue in professional development that further enhances their skills. JCU graduates enhance our organisation and add value to our students’ lives.