Master of Educational Leadership – UNSW Sydney

Master's Degree Curriculum & Instruction Full Time

Master of Educational Leadership

at University of New South Wales · Sydney, New South Wales

CRICOS course code

000949B

CRICOS provider code

00098G

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$44,500 total

Per year

A$33,057/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Educational Leadership at the University of New South Wales is a postgraduate qualification designed for educators and professionals seeking advanced capabilities in leadership across educational settings. This 1.5-year programme enables students to deepen their understanding of leadership theories, policy, and practice within schools, higher education, and community learning organisations in the Australian context. Key topics typically include strategic leadership, change management, curriculum innovation, and inclusive education, providing students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to drive educational improvement.

The qualification is structured around semesters. Students complete a set of core and elective units of study, with each unit assigned a certain number of credit points, all contributing to the overall degree requirement. The programme often features a research component, such as a capstone project or minor thesis, where students critically analyse current issues or policies in educational leadership. Work-integrated learning or professional placement opportunities may be available, allowing students to apply theoretical learning to real educational settings and strengthen their professional networks in Australia.

Graduates gain advanced skills in communication, organisational change, ethical leadership, and policy analysis. The course is suitable for teachers, education administrators, policy makers, and individuals in leadership roles in education and training. International students must provide evidence of English proficiency (IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5, or equivalent); those pursuing leadership in teaching may be subject to higher standards. Work rights during study (48 hours per fortnight) and the possibility of the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-graduation provide pathways for gaining Australian professional experience. Prospective students are encouraged to confirm specific programme requirements and opportunities on the official UNSW website.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

School principal or deputy principal roles in Australian primary and secondary schools
Curriculum leader or educational programme coordinator positions
Policy adviser or educational consultant for government or non-government education agencies
Managerial roles in training and development in corporate or community education
Leadership positions in higher education administration

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Educational Leadership at University of New South Wales?

It typically takes 1.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$44,500 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

School principal or deputy principal roles in Australian primary and secondary schoolsCurriculum leader or educational programme coordinator positionsPolicy adviser or educational consultant for government or non-government education agenciesManagerial roles in training and devel...

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