The requirement
To be eligible for the Master of Teaching (Secondary) or the Master of Teaching (Secondary) Internship you must qualify for at least two learning areas (or one double learning area).
Eligibility for at least one of the learning areas needs to be satisfied with a major sequence (see the eligibility requirements for each learning area below for definitions).
Vocational studies or work experience cannot be used to meet Learning Area requirements. Assessment is based on tertiary studies and must be Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level 7 or above to be considered. Equivalent international tertiary qualifications are accepted and will be assessed on application.
Please choose your learning areas carefully, as it can be difficult to change once your program has commenced. Swapping into a different learning area depends on your academic background, placement availability, and course progression — and in some cases, it may no longer be possible to change learning areas after a certain point.
Choosing your learning area
Learning Areas are the subject specialisations you’ll prepare to teach during your Master of Teaching (Secondary). Importantly, these are not subjects you will learn from scratch — they are based on your existing academic background. For example, if you select Biology as a learning area, it’s assumed you already have substantial knowledge of biology; the course will focus on how to teach it, not the content itself. You won’t be taught literature or chemistry or psychology — instead, we’ll train you to be an effective teacher in a subject you already know.
Please note that learning area selection is not a matter of personal interest alone. For instance, enjoying reading novels isn’t enough to qualify for English — you need a strong academic foundation in relevant disciplines. Remember that you MUST have completed a major sequence in at least one of your learning areas at a tertiary level, and at least a minor sequence in a second learning area. While this page aims to support you in understanding the learning area process, it’s important to note that most students will have limited options based on their prior study, rather than open choice across all subject areas.
When selecting your learning areas, it's also important to understand how your choices will affect your future employment opportunities and school placements. Choosing a particular learning area in the course does not restrict you to teaching only those subjects in schools. In fact, most secondary teachers are expected to teach across multiple disciplines, particularly in the junior years, and your professional experience placements and future employment may involve broader subject areas than those formally studied in the course (although all attempts will be made to provide you with a placement in each of your chosen learning areas.
Limit on VCE-Only Learning Areas
From 2026, students will generally be limited to one VCE-only learning area. This is because:
- Most teaching roles require you to teach in junior years (Years 7–10) as well as VCE subjects.
- Schools are less likely to offer full-time roles to teachers who can only teach VCE subjects.
- Students with two VCE-only subjects can be more challenging to place for professional experience.
Example 1: If you select Accounting as your learning area – which has a VCE focus – we strongly recommend something like Humanities (7-12 focus) or Mathematics (7-12 focus) as your second learning area, where you can gain junior teaching experience.
Example 2: If you have an undergraduate degree in chemistry, you might apply to Science and Chemistry as your learning areas. The Science learning area will prepare you to teach science to students in years 7-10, where students study across biology, chemistry, Earth sciences and physics. The Chemistry learning area will prepare you to teach senior chemistry, a subject that available to students in years 11 and 12 studying their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE).
Keep in mind that some study areas specific to VCE are not offered in all schools. To learn more about VCE studies offered by schools you may wish to browse the search for a school or study on the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority website .
Learning areas which are in higher demand in schools
We encourage you to consider learning areas that are:
- Commonly taught in schools from Years 7–12.
- Experiencing teacher shortages across Victoria and Australia.
Some high-demand areas currently include:
- Mathematics
- Science (includingPhysics, Chemistry, Biology)
- English
- Humanities (History)
- Health and Physical Education
You can view currently advertised jobs in Victorian government schools to get an idea of the learning areas that are in the highest demand from the DET Jobs in Victorian Government Schools page .
Areas with more limited school demand
Some subjects are only taught in a small number of schools or only at the VCE (senior secondary) level. These are less likely to lead to full-time teaching roles unless paired with another area (and can be more difficult to place). These include:
- Chinese
- Accounting
- Economics
- Psychology
- Media Studies
If you're passionate about one of these subjects, we encourage you to pair it with a more broadly taught learning area that includes Years 7–10.
Some learning areas have limited (capped) places
To ensure we can provide high-quality placements for all students, we cap enrolments in certain learning areas each year. These caps are based on:
- Trends in student demand and school workforce needs.
- How many schools offer these subjects at junior and senior levels.
- The number of school placements available in each subject area.
Why this matters: If more students enrol in a learning area than we can place, it causes significant stress for both students and staff — and may delay your progress through the program. These caps help ensure a manageable experience for everyone.
Learning areas - availability
Please note, not all learning area combinations may be available.
| Accounting | Mathematics (available as a single or double learning area) |
| Biology | Media Studies |
| Business Management | Music (available as a single or double learning area) |
| Chemistry | Physics |
| Commerce | Psychology |
| Drama | Science |
| Economics | Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) |
| English | Visual Arts and Design (available as a single or double learning area) |
| Health Outdoor Physical Education | |
| History | |
| Humanities (available as a single or double learning area) | |
Languages
|
| Accounting | Mathematics (available as a single or double learning area) |
| Biology | Media Studies |
| Business Management | Music (available as a single or double learning area) |
| Chemistry | Physics |
| Commerce | Psychology |
| Drama | Science |
| Economics | Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) |
| English | Visual Arts and Design (available as a single or double learning area) |
| Health Outdoor Physical Education | |
| History | |
| Humanities (available as a single or double learning area) | |
|
| Biology | Mathematics (available as a single or double learning area) |
| Chemistry | Physics |
| English | Science |
| History | Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) |
| Humanities (available as a single or double learning area) | Visual Arts and Design (available as a single or double learning area) |
|
Learning areas - eligibility
-
Covers: Junior secondary: No (note that in the profession VCE Accounting teachers will usually be expected to teach junior years humanities as well)
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Accounting)
Description: Prepares future teachers to deliver VCE Accounting, with a focus on financial literacy, budgeting, and business reporting. Emphasises curriculum design, assessment, and the integration of digital technologies to support student learning. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in accounting, commerce, or financial systems, and a desire to build students’ real-world financial literacy. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in accounting
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): ACCT -
Covers: Junior secondary: Some (note that in the profession VCE Biology teachers will usually be expected to teach junior years general science as well)
Senior secondary: YES (VCE Biology)
Description: Supports the teaching of VCE Biology, covering key topics such as genetics, ecology, and human anatomy. Encourages inquiry-based learning and scientific thinking. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in the life sciences and a passion for fostering curiosity about the natural world. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in biology (includes anatomy, biochemistry, botany, cell biology, ecology, evolution, genetics, human biology, microbiology, physiology, zoology)
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): ANAT; ANSC; ATOC; BCMB; BIEN; BIOL; BIOM; BMEN; BMSC; BOTA; BTCH; CEDB; ECOL; GENE; MEDS; MIIM; NEUR; PATH; PHYS; VETS; ZOOL -
Covers: Junior secondary: No (note that in the profession VCE Business Management teachers will usually be expected to teach junior years humanities as well)
Senior secondary: YES (VCE Business Management)
Description: Focuses on teaching core business concepts including marketing, management, and organisational behaviour. Incorporates real-world case studies to contextualise learning. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in business, entrepreneurship, or commerce education. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in business management (includes change management, commerce, economics, human resources, international business, marketing, operations management)
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): MGMT -
Covers: Junior secondary: No (note that in the profession VCE Chemistry teachers will usually be expected to teach junior years general science as well)
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Chemistry)
Description: Develops the capacity to teach chemical principles with a strong emphasis on safety, laboratory work, and experimental investigation. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in chemistry and a passion for hands-on, inquiry-based science education. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in chemistry (includes organic, inorganic, instrumental, biochemistry and chemical engineering)
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)The following areas of study will be considered:
- Pharmacy (including pharmacology and pharmaceutical)
Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): BCMB; CHEM; CHEN -
Covers: Junior secondary: Yes
Senior secondary: No
Description: Equips future teachers to deliver interdisciplinary commerce education, incorporating elements of economics, business, and law. Emphasises financial and commercial literacy. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in a broad range of commerce-related disciplines. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in one of the following areas of study:
- Accounting
- Business management
- Economics
- Finance
- Human resource management
- Legal studies
- Marketing
Plus:
- A part in another of these areas of study.
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)
The following areas of study are not eligible for this learning area:
- Data processing
Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Part
Successful higher education study in a subject having the weighting of at least one quarter of a year of full-time study.
In most programs, this equates to two units.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): ACCT; ACTL; BISY; BLAW; BMGT; ECON; FNCE; MKTG -
Covers: Junior secondary: Yes
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Drama and VCE Theatre Studies)
Description: Prepares teachers to deliver drama and theatre studies from Years 7–12, focusing on performance, script analysis, and creative direction. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in the performing arts and a desire to support student creativity and confidence. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in one of the following areas of study:
- Acting
- Design
- Directing
- Drama
- Media
- Musical theatre
- Performing arts
- Performance studies
- Theatre production
- Theatre studies
- Writing for performance
Plus:
- Evidence of some practical experience in drama/theatre/performing arts
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)
The following areas of study will be considered:
- Creative arts
- Film and screen
- Film and television
- Film production
- Music
- Screen production
Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): DPSS; DRAM; FLTV; MUST; THTR
ENGL and CWRI (select subjects with a specific drama or theatre focus)
Select breadth subjects including: EDUC10053; EDUC20083; EDU20084; EDUC20086
-
Covers: Junior secondary: No (note that in the profession VCE Economics teachers will usually be expected to teach junior years humanities as well)
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Economics)
Description: Supports the teaching of key economic concepts such as markets, policy, and decision-making. Encourages use of current events to promote real-world relevance. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in economics, public policy, or commercial systems. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in economics
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): ECON -
Covers: Junior secondary: Yes
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE English; VCE English Language; VCE Foundation English; and VCE Literature)
Description: Focuses on effective strategies for teaching language and literature, including reading, writing, and critical analysis. Emphasises engagement through diverse texts. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in literature, language, and supporting literacy development. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in English (literature or literary studies)
OR
A part in English (literature or literary studies) plus a major or minor in one of the following areas of study:
- Communications
- Creative writing
- Drama
- Film studies
- Linguistics
- Media studies
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)
Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Part
Successful higher education study in a subject having the weighting of at least one quarter of a year of full-time study.
In most programs, this equates to two units.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): CRWI; DRAM; ENGL; FLTV; JOUR; LING; MECM; SCRN -
Covers: Junior secondary: Yes
Senior Secondary: Yes (VCE Health and Human Development; VCE Physical Education; and VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies)
Description: Covers the teaching of health, physical education, and outdoor learning across the secondary years. Promotes wellbeing, inclusion, and active lifestyles. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in sport, youth wellbeing, and holistic education approaches.
The HOPE Learning Area combination is designed for those with undergraduate expertise supporting Health Education, Outdoor Education and/or Physical Education. The HOPE Learning Area comprises two streams, with an “Additional” stream designed to furnish the applied knowledge and skills required of those specialising in HOPE teaching.Available as double learning area? Yes. Meeting the eligibility requirement for this learning area (once) will also make you eligible for the double learning area. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in study areas related to health education and/or physical education and/or outdoor education. May include:
- Health and wellbeing, public health, family, human development, nutrition
- Sociology, gender studies, youth studies, psychology
- Nursing, paramedicine, biomedicine, biology, environmental studies
- Sport science, exercise science, human movement, movement sciences
- Sports coaching, fitness coaching, recreation, outdoor recreation, leisure, tourism
- Outdoor education, park management, sports management
- Sports psychology, sports sociology, sports history
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): ANAT; BIOL; BIOM; CEDB; FOOD; HLTH; MGMT; MIIM; NURS; NUTR; PHYS; POPH; PSYC; SOCI (specifically SOCI10001; SOCI10003; SOCI20014; SOCI20017; SOCI20018; SOCI30009; SOCI30012)
Select breadth subjects including: EDUC10051; EDUC20068; EDUC20070; EDUC30070; EDUC30073
-
Covers: Junior secondary: Yes
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE History)
Description: Equips teachers to deliver engaging history education across various cultures and time periods. Emphasises critical thinking and historical empathy. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in historical events, storytelling, and civic understanding. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in history (includes ancient world studies)
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)The following areas of study are not eligible for this learning area:
- Art history
Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): ANCW; HIST -
Covers: Junior secondary: Yes
Senior secondary: Some (there is no standalone humanities subject for VCE however humanities teachers may be required to take on VCE subjects aligned with their discipline area)
Description: Provides an interdisciplinary foundation in geography, civics, and history. Supports integrated approaches to understanding human societies and global challenges. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in the social sciences and cross-disciplinary teaching. Available as double learning area?
Yes. Meeting the eligibility requirement for this learning area (once) will also make you eligible for the double learning area.
Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in one of the following areas:
- Anthropology
- Australian studies
- Classical studies
- Criminology
- Economics
- Environmental studies
- Geography
- History (includes ancient world studies)
- History and philosophy of science
- Indigenous studies
- International relations
- Legal studies
- Multicultural studies
- Philosophy
- Politics
- Sociology
Plus:
- A part in another of these areas of study.
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)
The following areas of study are not eligible for this learning area:
- Gender studies
Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Part
Successful higher education study in a subject having the weighting of at least one quarter of a year of full-time study.
In most programs, this equates to two units.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): History: HIST, ANCW
Anthropology: ANTH
Criminology: CRIM
Economy: ECON
Geography: ENV, GEOG, GEOL
Politics: POLS, INTS, PADM, PPMN
Legal studies: LAWS
Philosophy: PHIL
Sociology: SOCI
Australian Studies: INDG
-
Covers: Junior secondary: yes
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Languages)
Description: Focuses on the teaching of languages other than English, supporting language acquisition and cultural understanding. Promotes immersive and communicative classroom experiences. Suitable for student teachers who are bilingual or have strong proficiency in another language and an interest in intercultural learning. Eligibility requirement:
Major in the relevant language
OR
A Statement of Equivalence for the relevant language from an approved test provider.
The aim of the Statement of Equivalence assessment is to determine whether you have sufficient oral and written competence and cultural understanding of the language being assessed to teach that language in Victorian schools. In other words, whether your overall competency in that language is at least equal to a major sequence at a tertiary level.
Keep in mind that being a native speaker of a language doesn't necessarily mean you should apply for the language learning area; it takes a lot of work and dedication to learn about your own language and how to teach that language.
The following areas of study are not eligible for this learning area:
- Ancient Greek (for Greek)
Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): CHIN; CLAS (Latin); FREN; GERM; HEBR; INDO; ITAL; JAPN; SPAN -
Covers: Junior secondary: Yes
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Foundation Mathematics; VCE General Mathematics; VCE Mathematical Methods; and VCE Specialist Mathematics)
Description: Develops strategies for teaching mathematics, including problem-solving, reasoning, and the use of technology. Aims to build student confidence and competence. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in mathematics, logic, and numeracy education. Available as double learning area?
Yes. Meeting the eligibility requirement for this learning area (once) will also make you eligible for the double learning area.
Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in mathematics
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): MAST -
Covers: Junior secondary: No
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Media)
Description: Supports the teaching of media literacy, including the analysis of media texts, understanding media production, and exploring the impact of media on society. Encourages creative projects and critical discussions. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in communication, contemporary media, and digital storytelling. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in media studies (includes screen studies, journalism, film and television, digital media)
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): FLTV; JOUR; MECM; SCRN -
Covers: Junior secondary: Yes
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Music)
Description: Prepares teachers to instruct in music theory, performance, and appreciation. Encourages both practical and theoretical engagement with music. Suitable for student teachers with musical proficiency and an interest in fostering student creativity and musical expression. Available as double learning area?
Yes. Meeting the eligibility requirement for this learning area (once) will also make you eligible for the double learning area.
Eligibility requirement:
Major in music performance (or demonstrated performance skills equivalent to a final year Bachelor of Music recital)
AND
Major in musicology (includes music language, music history, orchestration, arrangement)
AND
Successful completion of an audition and interview
Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): MUSI -
Covers: Junior secondary: Some (note that in the profession VCE Physics teachers will usually be expected to teach junior years general science as well)
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Physics)
Description: Focuses on how to teach key physical concepts such as mechanics, electricity, and thermodynamics. Emphasises experimentation and real-world applications. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in physics and strong analytical thinking skills. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in physics (includes electronics, astrophysics, cosmology)
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)The following areas of study will be considered:
- Engineering units may be considered upon review of unit statements for appropriate physics content
The following areas of study are not eligible for this learning area:
- Civil engineering
Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): CVEN; ELEN; ENGR; MCEN; PHYC -
Covers: Junior secondary: No
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Psychology)
Description: Prepares teachers to deliver psychological concepts including behaviour, cognition, and development. Promotes critical thinking and real-life application. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in human behaviour, mental health, and the social sciences. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in psychology
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): PSYC -
Covers: Junior secondary: Yes
Senior secondary: No (General Science teachers may teach at VCE level depending on their discipline area (for example, environmental science)
Description: Provides a broad foundation of teaching general science, integrating biology, chemistry, and physics. Emphasises scientific literacy and inquiry-based learning. Suitable for student teachers with a broad interest in science and integrated STEM education. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in one of:
- Biology
- Biomedicine
- Chemistry
- Earth science (geology)
- Environmental science
- General science
- Physics
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)
The following areas of study will be considered:
- Nursing
- Engineering
The following areas of study are not eligible for this learning area:
- Computer science
Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): Biology: ANAT; ANSC; ATOC; BIOL; BIOM; BCMB; BMEN; BMSC; BIEN; BOTA; BTCH; CEDB; ECOL; MEDS; MIIM; PATH; PHYS; NEUR; VETS, ZOOL
Chemistry: BCMB; CHEM; CHEN
Environmental science: ECOL; ENEN; ENSC; ENST; ENVS; ERTH; FRST; GEOG; GEOL; NRMT; ZOOL
Physics: CVEN; ELEN; ENGR; MCEN; PHYC
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Covers: Junior secondary: Yes
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Bridging English as an Additional Language; VCE English as an Additional Language)
Description: Focuses on teaching English to language learners, with an emphasis on communication strategies, cultural inclusion, and language development. Suitable for student teachers with an interest in linguistics, cross-cultural education, and supporting multilingual learners. Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in linguistics or in a second language (ie, not the applicant’s first language)
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): CHIN; FREN; GERM; HEBR; INDO; ITAL; JAPN; LING; SPAN -
Covers: Junior secondary: Yes
Senior secondary: Yes (VCE Art Creative Practice; VCE Art Making and Exhibiting; VCE Product Design and Technology; and VCE Visual Communication Design)
Description: Prepares teachers to deliver visual arts education, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and design thinking. Supports creative and critical engagement with art. Suitable for student teachers with a strong background or interest in the visual arts and creative practice. Available as double learning area?
Yes. Meeting the eligibility requirement for this learning area (once) will also make you eligible for the double learning area.
Eligibility requirement:
Major or minor in visual arts and/or design which includes:
- Architecture (including built environment and landscape architecture)
- Design (including food science and technology, interior design, cultural heritage, digital and interaction design, product design, industrial design, communication design, graphic design, merchandising and animation)
- Photography and film
Plus:
- A part in a practical studio area
(note that eligibility for at least one learning area needs to be satisfied with a major)
The following areas of study will be considered:
- Media
- Film and television studies
- Film and screen
- Film production
Definitions:
Major study
A total of three-quarters of a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline study taken over three years, e.g. a part in each of the first, second and third years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to six subjects, with no more than two at first-year level and no less than two subjects at third-year level.
Minor/ sub-major study
A total of half a year of successful full-time higher education study, usually comprising sequential discipline studies taken over two years, e.g. a part in each of the first and second years of study, or equivalent study.
In most programs, this equates to four subjects, with no more than two at the first-year level.
Part
Successful higher education study in a subject having the weighting of at least one quarter of a year of full-time study.
In most programs, this equates to two units.
Accepted UM subject codes (not exclusive): ARCH; DPSS; FINA; GDES
Frequently asked questions
The FAQs below apply to the Master of Teaching (Secondary) only.
For the Master of Teaching (Secondary) Internship please visit the MTSI FAQs page
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You will gain some insight and experience in a third area through one of the Foundations Electives. More about the structure of the course, including Foundations Electives, can be found in the Handbook. Foundations Electives are available in Arts, DigiTech, English, Health & Phys Ed, Humanities, Languages, Mathematics and Science. Alternatively, you can do additional study at a tertiary level to meet the requirements for the learning area you are particularly interested in (see question below).
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You can meet learning area requirements by enrolling in single-subject study through the University of Melbourne's Community Access Program (note that student visa holders or applicants are not eligible to enrol in single-subject study). Alternatively, you could consider a graduate certificate or graduate diploma at the University of Melbourne or another higher education institution to complete the relevant subjects.
We recommend contacting us with the subjects you intend to enrol in to ensure that the subjects will meet the requirements for the learning area. To assist us with assessment, please attach academic transcripts for all the tertiary studies that you have attempted or have planned.
Please note that confirmation of eligibility does not guarantee an offer of a place. As part of the selection process, eligible applicants will be ranked by our Selection Committee according to prior academic performance and the results of the Initial Teacher Education Assessment (iTEA).
If you don’t meet the requirement for two learning areas in the Master of Teaching (Secondary), you may also consider applying for another teaching course:
- Master of Teaching (Early Childhood)
- Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary)
- Master of Teaching (Primary)
- Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching
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Yes, you can apply to the Master of Teaching in the final year of your undergraduate studies. In your application, include information on the subjects or degree you are currently enrolled in. Provided you meet the course entry requirements, our admissions team will issue you with a conditional offer, guaranteeing you a place in the course and learning areas provided you successfully meet the conditions of your offer within the specified timeframe (i.e. successful completion of the subjects and/or course you are studying). Remember that eligibility of learning areas does not guarantee an offer of a place.
If you are in secondary school, you can find out more about how to become a teacher at the University of Melbourne. School leavers can choose to bundle an undergraduate degree offer with an offer for a place in the Master of Teaching through our Graduate Degree Packages . You can choose to enrol in your desired undergraduate and graduate study pathway immediately after your final year of secondary school.
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For students with a Commerce background: the Economics, Legal Studies and Accounting learning areas cover senior secondary VCE (Years 11 and 12). Schools are more likely to advertise jobs in Economics, Legal Studies and Accounting with the assumption that a teacher who can teach these areas will also have the skills and knowledge to teach junior commerce and Business Management (whether this is one of your learning areas or not). For this reason, Business Management and Commerce is not a highly employable learning area combination and is best avoided if an alternative is available.
For students with a Humanities background: the History, Politics, Legal Studies and Economics learning areas cover senior secondary VCE (Years 11 and 12), while the Humanities learning area covers years 7-12. The areas that are listed under the Humanities learning area provide the best preparation for teaching humanities across secondary schools in Victoria.
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Humanities Additional is the double learning area and is only available to students who have Humanities or History as their other learning area (eg. Humanities and Humanities Additional or History and Humanities Additional). As there is some similarity between History and Humanities, History students looking to take Humanities need to take Humanities Additional as this learning area is specifically designed to meet the needs of these students. As outlined in Handbook, Humanities Additional introduces Teacher Candidates who are studying a Humanities or History learning area with additional research and practice in the teaching of humanities and social sciences in the context of Australian/Victorian Curricula and Frameworks. This subject will deepen students understanding of the nature of humanities education for secondary school students across years 7-12 in Victoria.
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Keep in mind that being a native speaker of a language doesn't necessarily mean you should apply for the language learning area; it takes a lot of work and dedication to learn about your own language and how to teach that language.
If you have not completed a major in a language at a tertiary level, it is possible to meet the learning area requirements by taking an approved language test and submitting a Statement of Equivalence . The aim of the Statement of Equivalence assessment is to determine whether you have sufficient oral and written competence and cultural understanding of the language being assessed to teach that language in Victorian schools. In other words, whether your overall competency in that language is at least equal to a major sequence at a tertiary level. Please contact one of the approved test providers for more information.
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Yes, if you completed languages at school and have been granted advanced placement into a language program at the tertiary level you may only need to do four language subjects over your undergraduate degree. You would then usually take advanced subjects such as literature or cultural studies (in your chosen language). Latin students often take this pathway.
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It is important to remember that this course and the related learning areas, prepares teacher candidates for registration with the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) and for teaching in Victoria, Australia. The focus of the course is on secondary schooling under the Victorian curriculum. While many of our graduates go on to teach interstate and internationally, it is your responsibility to check the relevance of the course content and the teacher registration requirements in the jurisdiction in which you wish to teach.
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We encourage you to submit a course application and our Admissions team will assess your learning areas during your application assessment. If after reading the Master of Teaching (Secondary) Learning Areas page carefully you remain unsure, you can submit a question to our team.
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You can book a 1:1 chat with our experts if you have specific questions about the course and would like to discuss them further. There is a lot of information available online, so prior to booking a consultation, please read this page about learning areas, the Master of Teaching (Secondary) page (or the Master of Teaching (Secondary) Internship page ) and relevant pages in the University Handbook .