Australian Catholic University
Australian Catholic University – So much more
About Australian Catholic University
An Australian Catholic University (ACU) education is grounded in the Catholic understanding of faith and reason working together in the pursuit of knowledge, promotion of human dignity, and advancement of the common good.
ACU aims to transform lives and communities. Students are challenged to look beyond the classroom, solve real-world problems, develop their own search for meaning and cultivate strong professional ethics. They are invited to stand up for people in need and causes that matter.
Opportunities for personal and professional growth are critical to ACU. It is a university of service – so much so that it is built into the curricula. All ACU courses offer work placements, internships or volunteering opportunities.
Explore ACU courses
Australian Catholic University rankings
Discover the achievements and recognitions that reflect ACU's strengths in teaching, student experience and graduate outcomes.
97% of graduates employed
Graduate Outcomes Survey – Longitudinal 2025, overall employment for domestic undergraduate students and domestic postgraduate coursework students in the labour force.
1st in Australia for research quality
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026.
Discover online courses from Australian Catholic University
Degrees
Bachelor of Education (Primary and Secondary)
UndergraduateACU-EDC-DEG
Confidence, skills and experience to teach prep to Year 12
Positively influence the lives of young people. You’ll develop as a teacher and a person. Explore curriculum, planning, and pedagogy. Learn to engage your learners and be inclusive. Includes supervised work placements to practice teaching in schools.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 4 years full time or part time equivalent
Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary)
PostgraduateACU-TEC-MAS
Bring your love of learning to the classroom
Focus on creating a great environment to support childhood learning. Become a passionate advocate for the rights of children. Explore the ways that you can help children to build knowledge, skills and positive attitudes.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
Master of Teaching (Secondary)/Graduate Certificate in Religious Education
PostgraduateACU-TSE-MAS
Get ready to teach teenagers in a range of secondary school settings
Become qualified to teach RE – especially in faith-based schools – alongside your other subjects. Learn to design engaging, meaningful learning experiences for teenagers. Build practical classroom skills and graduate ready for teacher registration.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
Graduate Diploma in Theological Studies
PostgraduateACU-THS-GDI
Deepen your understating of faith through the lens of Catholicism
Explore theology with a specialisation of your choice, including ancient languages and spirituality. Study the Bible and its impact on society. Build advanced skills for service in churches, education or chaplaincy, and pathway to a masters.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 1 year full time or part time equivalent
Graduate Certificate in Supervision
PostgraduateACU-SUP-GCE
Spiritual supervision skills and knowledge for the helping professions
ACU offers formal studies in spiritual direction and supervision. In this course, you’ll explore the supervision of people in professional roles, like ministry, education, and health. Review ethical practices and safe standards. Develop self-awareness.
- Study method
- 100% online
PostgraduateACU-SPI-MAS
Explore the practice of spiritual direction in the Ignatian tradition
Deepen your understanding of Christian theology and help others on their spiritual journey. You’ll build confidence to guide people seeking purpose and meaning. Cover theological and ethical frameworks, along with practical skills for ministry work.
- Study method
- 100% online
Graduate Diploma in Spiritual Direction
PostgraduateACU-SPD-GDI
Guide people towards a deeper relationship with God
Develop your understanding of the themes and methodologies in Catholic spirituality. You’ll learn how to integrate that knowledge in professional practice. Study the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises. Become an ethical and self-aware spiritual director.
- Study method
- 100% online
Graduate Certificate in Religious Education
PostgraduateACU-RED-GCE
Teach religious education in Catholic schools or church organisations
Add RE to your teaching tool kit. You’ll work on the skills and knowledge needed to teach at primary and secondary levels. Learn to plan and deliver engaging lessons on catholic thought, scripture, the sacraments, and the Catholic Church.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 6 months full time or part time equivalent
Why study online with ACU?
Life doesn’t stop while you’re studying. That’s why ACU’s online courses are designed to fit around your work, family and other commitments.
ACU’s online learning experience has been purpose-built for flexibility and engagement. You’ll study through an intuitive digital learning platform, connect with experienced academics and fellow students and receive dedicated support whenever you need it. With flexible study options, personalised academic assistance and practical, career-focused learning, you’ll graduate with the confidence and skills to take the next step in your career.
Australian Catholic University FAQs
Do I have to be Catholic to study at ACU?
No. ACU welcomes students of all faiths, beliefs and backgrounds. You don’t need to be Catholic or religious to study with us. The university's Catholic identity shapes its values, including respect for every person, ethical leadership and a commitment to the common good, creating an inclusive learning environment where everyone is welcome.
What is it like to study online with ACU?
ACU’s online courses are designed specifically for digital learning, giving you the flexibility to study around your work and personal commitments. Depending on your course, you can study through scheduled online classes or work through learning materials at your own pace. You’ll engage with interactive content, connect with academics and classmates, and graduate with the same recognised ACU qualification as on-campus students.
What support services are available for online students?
As an online student, you’ll have access to a wide range of support services, including AskACU, experienced online educators, academic skills advisors, library resources, counselling services and Studiosity for 24/7 assignment feedback. From enrolment to graduation, dedicated support teams are there to help you succeed both academically and personally.
Can I study while working full-time?
Yes. Many ACU online students balance study with full-time work and family commitments. Flexible course delivery allows you to complete your learning when it suits your schedule, making it easier to progress your career without putting it on hold.
Will my qualification be recognised by employers?
Yes. Your degree is awarded by Australian Catholic University and is the same nationally recognised qualification that students studying on campus receive. Employers value ACU graduates for their practical knowledge, professional skills and commitment to making a positive impact in their workplaces and communities.
Can I receive credit for previous study or work experience?
You may be eligible for credit if you’ve completed previous university study or have relevant professional experience. Receiving credit can reduce the number of units you need to complete, helping you finish your qualification sooner. ACU assesses each application individually.
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