Are you considering studying for a graduate certificate in educational leadership and want to learn more about the course? You aren’t alone! We are frequently asked about the course, its content, and potential career opportunities afterwards, and we’re here with the answers you need. Let us walk you through what you can expect, including the course duration, unit titles, and entry requirements.
What is a graduate certificate in educational leadership?
A graduate certificate in educational leadership is a postgraduate program designed specifically for teachers and educators. The course will help develop your leadership toolkit, helping you to move into leadership roles where you can inspire staff and students alike!
The course will provide you with people’s first leadership approaches that will help guide your school community to reach its full potential. The course is designed to provide you with strategies that will support, empower, and encourage development in staff and students. You will learn about contemporary education challenges and how to overcome them, allowing you to make a positive change.
The course is delivered full-time and part-time, with the option to study online. Online study is perfect for working teachers, as you can fit the studies in around your schedule, with the option to study any time and from anywhere. The course is also delivered one unit at a time, with the option to spread your payments and access fee assistance where needed.
What will I learn on a graduate certificate in educational leadership?
What you will learn on a graduate certificate in educational leadership will vary depending on the course provider, but typically, you will learn about the leadership tools and skills needed to influence positive change and lead in modern education environments.
Typically, you can expect to find the four unit titles on your course brochure:
- Education leadership and change
- Educational management and administration
- Leading and developing educators
- Leading, learning, teaching, and curriculum
When choosing your course, we recommend studying the brochure to learn more about these units and determine if the course is right for you. There is usually the option to choose a specialised stream for the graduate certificate, opting for educational leadership, STEM, or a general stream. If you are unsure which option is right for you, speak with someone in admissions to learn more about each course and its associated career outcomes.
What do I need for a graduate certificate in educational leadership?
The entry requirements for a graduate certificate in educational leadership will vary depending on the course provider that you choose. You should contact the course provider or admissions office directly to determine your specific requirements and ask any questions about the entry criteria.
Typically, you will need one of the following to apply:
- A current registration as a teacher at a proficient level or higher with an Australian regulatory authority
- A three-year undergraduate degree in Education or a relevant field, and three years of experience in education
- A graduate or postgraduate education qualification approved by the course provider
You might also need to meet additional requirements if English is not your first language. These will vary depending on the course provider, but you will usually need to complete IELTS and achieve a score of 6.5 or higher. Again, you will need to check the course provider before applying.
What can I do with a graduate certificate in educational leadership?
After completing your graduate certificate in educational leadership, you have several career options in the education industry. The course will provide you with the management and leadership skills to move into senior roles, with more responsibility and a higher wage.
Many graduates will move into one of the following roles:
- Curriculum Coordinator or Specialist
- Deputy Principal
- Early Childhood Director
- Education Assessment Specialist
- Educational Policy Developer
- Executive Principal
- Executive Teacher
- Head of Department or Faculty
- Instructional Leader
- Principal
- School Leader
- School Policy Adviser or Developer
- Student Wellbeing Manager
- Year Adviser
You can also choose to remain in education and continue your studies, completing a master’s degree. This will help you deepen your skills and knowledge, as well as enhance your research skills. Doing so will enable you to move into senior roles and enjoy higher wages too. You should check with your course provider to determine if further education is available and whether the graduate certificate can be applied towards the new course.
Start your educational leadership course today
An educational leadership course is the perfect step to support your career and make a positive impact on staff and students. When choosing your course provider, we recommend the University of Canberra, which offers a graduate certificate in educational leadership that is aligned with the ACARA curriculum needs and comes with support every step of the way. Check out their graduate certificate in educational leadership today!
