Innovative Master of Teaching to address maths and English shortages
Federation University Australia is launching an innovative Master of Teaching course to help put more qualified maths and English teachers in Victorian classrooms, by covering the cost of subjects while giving students paid in-classroom training.
The Master of Teaching (Secondary) Employment-based Program will begin in Semester One 2026 and provide eligible students with a $16,000 scholarship, along with paid school employment in the final six months of their course as part of a partnership with the Victorian Government.
The course, which can be completed in 18 or 24 months, will also help address skills shortages in English and Maths/Science education by giving aspiring teachers the skills they need to enter the sector and make a real difference in young people’s lives.
For those students whose bachelor's degree does not qualify them to teach English or Maths/Science – for example, a degree in IT, history or marketing – special units in the target disciplines will be offered at no cost, enabling students to upskill without the financial burden.
The changes respond to an urgent demand for teachers in Australian secondary schools, with the 2024 OECD Teaching and Learning International Survey finding 58.1 per cent of principals in public schools reporting a shortage of teachers, with maths and English amongst the hardest subjects to staff.
The course will be delivered online, giving students the flexibility to balance learning with their work and life commitments.
Their studies will be supported by virtual workshops and 60 days of professional placement in Victorian secondary schools, learning from mentor teachers and participating in structured classes to connect theory with day-to-day practice.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree and live in, or close, to a priority Victorian location.
For more information on the course, eligibility criteria and application process, visit study.federation.edu.au
Quote attributable to Federation University Associate Professor of Education, Amanda McGraw
“English and maths are really central to people’s everyday lives and the issues the world is currently contending with, from the environment to the use of AI.
“This program will help students develop a deeper understanding of those disciplines and give them the tools they need to make a real difference for young people across diverse communities.
“Through online support and professional placement, students will develop the knowledge of how secondary-aged children learn, what motivates them, and how to create meaningful education experiences that spark curiosity and growth.”
Quote attributable to Federation University Pro Vice-Chancellor Learning and Teaching, Professor Birgit Loch
“Supporting students to build practical skills and a strong connection with employers is a cornerstone of our co-operative education approach.
“With paid work placement embedded in this innovative course, students can gain meaningful professional experience while they study, giving them the tools they need to confidently take the next step in their career.”