ACU - Master of Educational Leadership

The Master of Educational Leadership from ACU develops strategic leadership skills within Catholic and broader educational contexts.

Title: Master of Educational Leadership
Provider: Australian Catholic University (ACU)
Locations: Melbourne (VIC), Online

About

The leadership program prepares teachers and professionals for senior roles in schools and educational organisations.

Students will study core topics such as Catholic educational values, leadership as a vocation, research methods, and leading learning communities. Electives provide flexibility to explore areas like governance, innovation, and data-driven leadership.

The education masters culminates in a capstone project where students apply their learning to real-world educational challenges. Graduates should be ready to lead with confidence.

Provider

Australian Catholic University (ACU) is a multi-state Australian institution offering programs grounded in ethical and social values. ACU specialises in education, health, and leadership training. It is known for its strong links to Catholic education and a practical focus, helping students excel in their professions.

Key Takeaways

Open to applicants with teaching qualifications or leadership experience.
The course is 120 credit points, taking 1.5–2 years full-time or part-time equivalent.
Core units include Catholic educational values, leadership principles, and research methods.
Elective options cover governance, innovation, and data analysis in education.
Graduates can exit early with a Graduate Certificate or Diploma in Educational Leadership.

Course Structure

This course includes 120 credit points (12 units), divided into three parts: core units (60 cp), electives (40 cp), and a capstone unit (20 cp).

Core units focus on themes such as Catholic educational values, leadership roles, and integrating sustainability into education. They provide the foundation for understanding leadership in contemporary educational settings.

Electives offer the opportunity to specialise in areas like educational governance, care and well-being, or global educational challenges. The capstone unit allows students to apply their knowledge in a practical project, completed in the final semester.

Core Units

Foundations: Vision and Mission of Catholic Education in the Contemporary World (10 cp)
Leading Learning in Catholic Educational Communities and Cultures (10 cp)
Educational Leadership as Vocation and Service (10 cp)
Integrating Capabilities for Renewal and Sustainability in Leadership (10 cp)
Leadership in Context: Educational Narratives and Literacies for Learning Communities (10 cp)
Educational Research Methods (10 cp)

Elective Units (Examples)

Data Information Systems: Using Research and Data for Learning (10 cp)
Leading Communities of Care and Well-being (10 cp)
Leading Innovation (10 cp)
Governance: Theory and Practice in Catholic Education (10 cp)
Global Priorities and Challenges in Educational Thought and Practice (10 cp)

Capstone Unit

Capstone Applied Project (20 cp)

Refer to the course page for details.

Why This Degree Is Worthwhile

The Master of Educational Leadership provides specialised training for teachers and professionals aspiring to lead in Catholic or general education settings. It prepares graduates to meet challenges such as school governance, curriculum innovation, and sustainable leadership.

The program is for educators with teaching or leadership experience, ensuring practical relevance. Graduates can also earn an interim qualification—Graduate Certificate or Diploma—if they choose to exit early.

By integrating Catholic educational values and research-based practices, this course is ideal for those seeking to advance in schools or educational organisations.

How Online Study Works

Online delivery ensures students can complete the course alongside work commitments. Recorded lectures, virtual discussion forums, and digital library access create an engaging learning environment.

Students interact with peers and lecturers through online workshops and collaborate on assignments. The online structure mirrors the on-campus experience, providing full academic and technical support.

The capstone project, a key part of the program, is conducted independently but supported through online supervision. This project bridges the gap between theory and practice, preparing graduates for leadership roles.