Master of Education (Basic level entry)

It is expected that graduates will be able to:

• evaluate current literature in the field of education with an informed, critical perspective
• critically discuss and evaluate current theory and research in selected areas of educational policy and practice
• develop dispositions, cognitive skills, reflective awareness and creativity to facilitate the application of evidence-based knowledge, skills and capacities to educational practices
• synthesise knowledge gained from reading, discussion, and writing to generate conceptual frameworks that are used to evaluate educational research, policies and practices
• invoke contemporary evidence-based knowledge when assuming leadership roles in educational contexts
• advocate for and contribute to the generation of evidence-based educational policies and practices
• formulate research questions to investigate issues of interest and/or current concern in Education
• generate detailed proposals for educational research, including consideration of ethical research standards, methods and timelines
• undertake a substantial independent research project
• communicate findings from analysis and synthesis of reading and personal research using high standards of academic literacy.

The postgraduate education program is intended for people currently employed in education, special education or education management, and for those who have an interest in developing their knowledge and practice in these areas. It introduces knowledge and skills in your area of interest, with a focus on understanding and changing practice.

Masters offers quality research training and an introduction to traditions of thought and analysis in educational policy and practice. It gives advanced insights into theoretical and practical matters in education to improve professional decision making.

It is 2 years in length on a full-time basis and can also be undertaken part-time. 

Recommended study pattern

Students complete two core (compulsory) topics and fourteen option topics chosen from an extensive range of option topics available making it possible for students to create their own program of study depending on their interests.

As a guide, full-time students generally undertake four subjects per semester and part-time students undertake two subjects per semester.

Award requirements

To complete the requirements of the Master of Education (Basic level entry), students must successfully complete two core (compulsory) subjects and 14 elective subjects chosen from an extensive range of electives.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $40,600

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Flinders University is a globally-focused, locally-engaged institution with a reputation for excellence in teaching, learning and research. They offer world‐class education that develops the critical and creative thinking skills to support a student’s success. Their courses offered through Open Universities Australia span business, education and law. They are designed with flexibility in mind, while delivering the advanced qualifications to take careers to the next step.

Learn more about Flinders University.

Explore Flinders courses.

QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

21

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

20

Applicants must normally hold a bachelor degree or equivalent qualification.

Flinders University conducts an English Language proficiency check on applications submitted for consideration to its courses. 
This will be met in a number of ways, including if the applicants: 

• first language is English (i.e. citizenship is held for a country where English is the official language)
• completed secondary schooling in Australia
• completed prior study in English (e.g. a Certificate IV or higher from a recognised Australian training institution)
• completed one semester of full-time equivalent tertiary study at a higher education institution 
• completed a recognised Foundation Studies or bridging program 
• performance in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test  (STAT) meets the University's admissions requirements 
• registered with an Australian professional registration body relevant to the applicant's proposed course (e.g. applicant holds current registration as a Registered Nurse, General Practitioner, Teacher, Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Social Worker and such in Australia)
• achieved a score within an international English language proficiency test such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or Cambridge CAE that meets the minimum proficiency for the university
• completed an approved English language course from a registered English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) Provider

In some instances, applicants may be asked to provide evidence they meet the requirements if the information required is not available in their application. 

Credit transfer may be granted, on application, for prior study completed in a relevant honours, graduate certificate, graduate diploma or master degree; accredited professional development; or relevant work experience.

Applications for credit transfer are assessed on a case by case basis according to Flinders University policies. Students must be made an offer for entry into a degree before lodging their completed credit transfer application, along with all necessary documentation for formal assessment. More information is available at www.flinders.edu.au/credit