What is a Graduate Certificate of Education in Special Education?
A Graduate Certificate of Education (Special Education) offers you the specialist knowledge, experience and skills required to create supportive learning environments and improve the inclusion of students with a range of additional learning needs. This course is valuable to teachers and other professionals looking to expand their expertise into special education.Learning outcomes
- Identify and analyse biases, prejudices and assumptions associated with learning differences.
- Apply a person-first perspective to solve challenges faced in special needs education.
- Design and evaluate inclusive, ethical and effective learning environments.
- Integrate contemporary special needs education findings into teaching practices.
This is an AQF Level 8 course delivered by Torrens University Australia Ltd.
*For more details on international student study options.

Career opportunities
Special needs education is a response to a large section of our population – our disabled community. You will have opportunities to bring educational value to people with various disabilities in schools, TAFEs, universities and other agencies seeking to improve special education programs. It also provides an avenue for lead teacher status and leadership opportunities within schools and other educational establishments.
Potential career paths
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Education Consultant
Average salary: $84,375 - $127,193 -
Disability Support Manager
Average salary: $81,596 - $128,133 -
Special Education Teacher
Average salary: $79,353 - $113,252

Subjects and units
Each subject involves 10 hours of study per week, comprising of 8 hours of facilitated study and 2 hours of self-directed study.
Requirements
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Learning Differences | LDF402
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Introduction to Mental Health Conditions | IMH402
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Person-Centred Approach | PFA401
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Dyslexia | DYX403
International students must not enrol in more than one-third (33%) of online subjects over their course, and must study at least one face-to-face subject each study period. Please note that due to COVID-19, authorities have provided exceptions to the usual face-to-face learning requirements until 30 June 2023 only. For more information, visit Study in Australia.
International students on a student visa are required to study full time (i.e. must complete a minimum of 1.0 EFTSL of study per year). For the latest information on study locations, please check the entry requirements flyer.
Entry details
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Domestic
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International
Fees
Check the domestic course fee schedule for the cost of your course.
FEE-HELP
Eligible Australian students may choose to defer some, or all, of their tuition fees through FEE-HELP, a loan scheme repaid through the tax system based on income.
Scholarships
If you are truly passionate about education, we want to hear from you. We have a variety of education scholarships on offer to assist you in becoming a key part of the education industry:Admission criteria
Before you begin your application to study as a domestic student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.
Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning
If you have already completed a qualification you may be able to credit this against your degree with us, even if it’s from another institution. This is called Recognition of Prior Learning. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.Fees
Check the international course fee schedule for the cost of your course. Onshore international students requiring a student visa should choose campus-based / blended options.
Fee payment
Course fees can be paid across three study periods. Each instalment to be paid before the beginning of the academic stage census date.
Scholarships
We want you to have the best possible chance to succeed, which is why we offer a range of financial scholarships to support our international students during their study journey.Admission criteria
Before you begin your application to study as an international student, check that you meet the requirements listed below.
Guaranteed pathway and Recognition of Prior Learning
If you have already completed a qualification you may be able to credit this against your degree with us, even if it’s from another institution. This is called Recognition of Prior Learning. We also offer pathway opportunities to further your learning.How to apply

Get started
Read through the admissions criteria and ensure you meet the entry requirements.

Apply
It’s easy! Apply online below or contact us and we can help on 1300 575 803.
Offer
We’ll contact you shortly after to confirm your details and help you through the rest of the process.
Frequently asked questions
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What are Torrens University Australia’s ATAR requirements for domestic students?
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What if I don’t meet the entry criteria for a degree?
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Am I eligible for FEE-HELP?
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Can I get course credit for previous experience?
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What are Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer (CT)? How do I apply?
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How do I apply for a scholarship?
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Want to find out more?
Don't forget to download the course guide or get in touch with us below.