Graduate Certificate in University Teaching (GCUT)
Overview
The Graduate Certificate in University Teaching (GCUT) is designed for university staff seeking to develop their expertise, scholarship, and leadership skills in university teaching. The course combines research-based, theoretical seminars guided by experienced higher education researchers, with practical exercises involving peer review of teaching, and negotiated projects.
The course is offered part time and is designed to complement participants' university teaching practice.
A feature of the program is the diversity of the group. Participants represent a wide range of disciplines, and are in a variety of teaching roles. They therefore contribute various perspectives and experiences to the group. The curriculum is designed to capitalise on this diversity through discussion and collaboration. The ‘cohort experience’ generated is a valued component of the course.
Past graduates from the GCUT have reported many positive career outcomes, including enhanced knowledge of effective teaching and learning, improved student evaluation scores, increased promotion opportunities, publication in academic journals, and success in winning teaching awards and grants for educational research and development.
Course structure
The GCUT is offered part-time, consists of four subjects each worth 12.5 credit points, and may be taken over one or two years.
It is a requirement that 479-802 be taken in the first semester of enrolment and that the elective subject – which forms the course capstone – be taken in the final semester.
Teaching is primarily on-campus, involving occasional full day sessions and regular two-hour classes (the mode and timetable varies with each of the four subjects). Online learning is core to some subjects, and is used to support participation across the course as a whole. Assessment tasks are designed to be useful to individuals, and relevant to their particular teaching environments.
Subjects
Please visit the GCUT subject page for details on the subjects offered.
A University-funded program
The GCUT is open only to University of Melbourne staff. Places are limited, and applicants require the support of their Head of Department/unit and Dean of Faculty. Course fees are covered by the University.
Eligibility
- Bachelor degree (any discipline)
- Current employment at the University of Melbourne with teaching responsibilities.
- Support and formal approval from Head of Department and Faculty Dean.
All staff meeting the above criteria are eligible to apply – application is not restricted to full-time staff, nor to staff on academic appointments.
Application & selection process
Applications for 2010 intake are now open. Closing date: 8 December, 2009.
Download the application form here. Microsoft Word version.
Download flyer for 2010 'call for applications'.
Download a list of 'Frequently Asked Questions'.
There are limited places available in the program. In the event that the number of eligible applications exceeds the available places, the selection committee will consider:
- the form of appointment (priority will be given to staff on full-time, continuing appointments); and
- institutional support (in the form of statements from Head of Department and/or Dean).
In addition, priority will be given to people with current or future leadership roles in teaching and learning.
Selection will take place in early December, and applicants advised of the outcome no later than 22 December, 2009.
Please contact the GCUT course coordinator Dr Kerri-Lee Harris/ k.harris@unimelb.edu.au if you have any other questions about the course or the application process.