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Undergraduate Certificate in Education Support (40B)

Overview (2027)

Duration

Minimum 0.5 years, up to a maximum of 2 years.

This course is available to study as both part-time or full-time
Duration
Duration refers to the minimum and maximum amounts of time in which this course can be completed. It will be affected by whether you choose to study full or part time, noting that some programs are only available part time.

Location

Online
Semester 1

Education Support is essential to educational access and equity, particularly for children and adults who may have distinct learning difficulties, lack confidence or motivation in learning, or who might otherwise be disengaged or marginalised from conventional educational systems or practices.

The Undergraduate Certificate in Education Support is a 6-month online course which provides a foundational understanding of educational practices. You'll develop problem-solving, communication and critical thinking skills relevant to many education careers, especially in a classroom setting as Integration Aides, Teacher Aides, and School Support Officers. Graduates may also seek employment in the industry training sector and communication-based jobs in other sectors.

Once you have completed the Undergraduate Certificate in Education Support, if you wish to continue with further study, you can enter into the Associate Degree in Education Support.


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  • 1 Identify and describe features of educational theory and practice, the Australian curriculum and the role of education support staff in enhancing student learning.
  • 2 Apply your skills to operate ethically, inclusively and collaboratively in diverse, complex and at times unpredictable learning contexts to support the delivery of a differentiated curriculum for individual learners.
  • 3 Communicate clearly and sensitively with students, colleagues, parents/carers.
  • 4 Apply your skills and knowledge to contribute to problem-solving, working collectively, to support the delivery learning outcomes for students.

Tasmania is a place filled with creativity, industry, nature, and adventure. Because we’re the only university in the state, you get close access to the industry leaders, artists, and deep thinkers who are shaping our island. That means learning alongside the very best so you can hone your job skills for a successful career.

Whatever you’re passionate about, we’ll give you a hands-on education and an unforgettable adventure with our work integrated learning opportunities. https://www.utas.edu.au/study/work-integrated-learning

Career outcomes

The Undergraduate Certificate in Education Support professional development if you are currently working or plan to work in education or related sectors. Your studies will explore a range of educational theories and practices. You'll also learn about the Australian curriculum, and the role of education support staff in enhancing student learning.

This course is an excellent opportunity to further your career in the education sector, as employment projections for Education Assistants are upward trending and set to grow by 9.5% by 2033*. After completing this certificate, you'll have the ability to assist with educational activities to support children and adults who have learning difficulties.

This course is suitable for students from a range of educational backgrounds and minimal or no experience in education support. In addition developing job-ready skills, you'll also have the option to pursue to further study in the Associate Degree in Education Support.

*Source: Job outlook Australia, ABS Labour Force Survey, National Skills Commission trend data to May 2023 and projections to May 2033.

Course structure

Completion of the Undergraduate Certificate in Education requires the completion of 50 credit points of Core units from the schedule.

It is strongly recommended that you complete EDU106 Academic Literacies in your first semester of study. This unit introduces you to the expectations of university study and assists you to develop the skills you need to engage successfully with higher education. 

Entry requirements

Domestic Applicants who have recently completed secondary education

- Completed the TCE (or equivalent)

Domestic Applicants with higher education study

- Completed at least one undergraduate unit (equivalent to 12.5 UTAS credit points).

Domestic Applicants with VET / TAFE study

- A completed VET Certificate III or higher,

Domestic Applicants with work and life experience:

If you have not successfully completed senior secondary, tertiary or TAFE/VET study, but have relevant work and life experience you can complete a personal competency statement. You may be eligible for an offer if you have work and life experiences that demonstrate a capacity to succeed in this course.

Prerequisites

Nil

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

If your ability to access or participate in education has been affected by circumstances beyond your control, you can apply for special consideration as part of your application. We will consider a range of factors for special consideration, including economic hardship, a serious medical condition or disability.

We can only approve applications for special consideration where we are confident that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your studies. If your application is not approved, the admissions team will work with you to find the best alternative pathway to your chosen course. Special consideration is not available for international applicants.

Passes in units in other incomplete courses in this University or another approved tertiary institution may be credited towards the undergraduate certificate.

Find out more information about how to apply for a credit transfer/advanced standing at Recognition of Prior Learning.

Students completing the Undergraduate Certificate in Education Support can receive advanced standing for four 12.5 credit point units of the Associate Degree in Education Support.

Detailed admissions information and advice for all undergraduate courses, including comprehensive, course-level student profiles, is available from UTAS Admissions.

Fees & scholarships

Domestic students

Commonwealth supported places (CSP) are available for this course. For eligible domestic students, this means your fees will be subsidised by the Australian Government. You’ll only need to pay the student contribution amount for each unit you study within the course.

Commonwealth Supported Place indicative annual fee: $2,368

How is this calculated?

This is an estimate. The calculation is based on the average full-time enrolment for this course in 2026. All figures are indicative only for 2027. Actual tuition fees will depend on specific unit enrolment, and are subject to annual increases each year. You can find the complete fee details for each unit of study on the individual unit pages. The units for this course are found in the course structure section of this page.

These figures do not include other costs such as the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF). For further information, please visit Scholarships, fees and costs.

HECS-HELP loans

You may be able to defer payment of the student contribution amount by accessing a HECS-HELP loan from the Government. If eligible, you’ll only have to pay your tuition fees once you start earning above a specific amount.

Further information on student loans and a CSP eligibility checker can be found at Australian Government Study Assist.

Domestic scholarships

Scholarships for domestic students

Each year, the University offers more than 900 awards to students from all walks of life, including: those who have achieved high academic results, those from low socio-economic backgrounds, students with sporting ability, students undertaking overseas study, and students with a disability.

For information on all scholarships available at the University of Tasmania, please refer to scholarships.

Applications for most awards commencing in Semester 1 open at the beginning of August and close strictly on 31 October in the year prior to study.

How can we help?

Do you have any questions about choosing a course or applying? Get in touch.