Why would I want to study the Graduate Certificate in Adult and Vocational Education?

This course will take your Vocational Education Training (VET) career to the next level.

Until recently, post-graduate teaching and applied research courses have not been available to teachers in TAFE or VET. Now, you can achieve a post-graduate teaching qualification in vocational education to elevate your standing in the VET sector. This course will open doors to a broader range of career and further study opportunities.

The Graduate Certificate in Adult and Vocational Education (GCV01) has been approved by the Victorian TAFE Association as meeting the terms of the Victorian TAFE Teacher Agreement (MEA) for pay progression.

How long does this course take?

This course will take 12 months (one academic year) to complete.

What are the benefits of studying this course? How will I become a better teacher?

The Graduate Certificate in Adult and Vocational Education (GCV01) will help you to reflect on your teaching practice, make improvements at key stages in the teaching cycle and have a positive influence on your students’ learning.

The course will teach you to:

• make informed decisions about approaches to teaching, subject design and assessment in a variety of contexts.
• assess your teaching practice and subject design to improve the student learning experience.
• critically evaluate different contexts within the Australian VET system.

The course also includes an applied research unit. You will have the opportunity to research an aspect of your own teaching practice that can help improve your effectiveness as a VET teacher.  

What are the differences I’ll see in my teaching after this course?

In this course you will learn the science of teaching and learning, and key learning theories. It will also develop your skills as an applied researcher.  

By learning the science of teaching and learning, as well as learning theories and pedagogical practices, you will be able to draw from science to improve your teaching practice and your students’ capacity to learn.

What are the likely differences my students will see in me?

By learning and applying contemporary learning methodologies and pedagogy into your practice, your students will notice improvements in your teaching and improvements in their learning and class performance.

Wherever possible, assignments in the course are linked to what you are already doing in the classroom or workshop. For example, using scholarly practice to embed a new learning theory and methodology into a lesson plan before teaching it, then evaluating the results.

How will this course change or impact my career for the better?

This course is a AQF Level 8, post-graduate qualification. This is a high-level degree that can lead to higher levels of learning at university, such as a master’s degree or a PhD. It will elevate your professional standing and career potential.

How will BHI support me if I get stuck in my study journey?

We’re committed to our students’ study and wellbeing and have many resources available to help you along the way.

We set up small class sizes so you can receive personalised attention on your learning. Unlike a big university where you might end up being just a number, you can talk with our teachers who will know you and your work.

This course includes two live video conference lessons per week (during units). There are also asynchronous learning times during the week where a teacher will be available for you to discuss assignments or help with other challenges you may be facing.

We also offer a range of support services.

We want you to excel in your studies and will help you to become the best VET teaching professional you can possibly be.