Master of Education (Higher Education) (Progressive level entry)

Graduates from this specialisation will be able to demonstrate advanced knowledge of:

• contemporary issues, priorities and policies in higher education;
• political, social and economic complexities of educational contexts;
• principles and practices of effective relational pedagogy in higher education;
• systemic practices that enhance student learning, achievement and well-being;
• qualitative and quantitative approaches to gathering evidence in support of the development of personal and collegial pedagogical practices.

Graduates from this specialisation will develop the cognitive, creative and technical skills to:

• identify the implications of contemporary socio-political issues for their local context;
• critique the scholarship of teaching and learning in higher education, with particular reference to assessment and quality assurance;
• articulate and defend a personal philosophy for professional practice;

Graduates from this specialisation will be able to apply their specialised knowledge and skills to:

• design and evaluate quality learning experiences for diverse students in higher education;
• construct and conduct a practitioner research project to focus on a key aspect of personal or institutional significance.

This degree is intended for academics working in the tertiary sector or who aspire to teach at tertiary level, and those whose personal, professional or research interests include a focus on higher education. 

It is designed to critically examine recent literature, engage in debate and reflection, and develop and apply in-depth knowledge to transform practice knowledge into an education for practice.

It will also introduce you to research methods and publications and will provide a pathway to further study at higher degree by research level. Your potential for academic promotion in the higher education field will also be enhanced. These courses do not lead to teacher registration in South Australia.

It is 1.5 years in length on a full-time basis and can also be undertaken part-time.

Recommended study pattern

Students complete eight core (compulsory) topics and four option topics chosen from a range of option topics available including research preparation topics.

Students must also complete a Coursework Project.

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 (Higher Education)  (Progressive level entry), students must successfully complete eight core (compulsory) topics and four elective topics chosen from an extensive range of electives.

Students must also complete a Coursework Project.

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

Indicative total fee $30,300

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.

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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 in Education, Teaching or in a closely related discipline; or hold a bachelor degree or equivalent in any discipline and also hold a Graduate Certificate in Education (Higher Education) or equivalent qualification. All applicants must normally be employed in a teaching position in a higher education institution by the commencement date of the course.

All applicants must normally be employed in a teaching position in a higher education institution by the commencement date of the course.

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