School of Education celebrates longevity of graduate diploma

Established in 1975, the Graduate Diploma in CED was Australia’s first postgraduate program specialising in career development.

The program has retained its vibrancy over the past 40 years through embracing change and innovation as a first principle.

From face-to-face delivery at RMIT’s City campus to mediated distance education, the Graduate Diploma in CED has shaped new avenues for career development training.

Online delivery was implemented in 2011, broadening the scope of potential students and providing opportunities to those who were once restricted by geographical borders.

The program shifted from abstract, theory-based teaching methods to a competency-based approach, emphasising application and competencies to meet industry standards.

This slowly transformed the Graduate Diploma into an applied training program with a focus on producing practitioners.

The program evolved from discourse about career development of adolescents to discourse about education, welfare, the corporate sectors and career development across the lifespan.

Concentrating on key skills determined by the Career Industry Council of Australia, the Graduate Diploma in CED teaches career management strategies, communication and counselling skills and how to apply ethical and effective practice in career development.

Program Director Michael Hastings referred to the three commitments that have sustained the program over time: the power of idea or vision, the value of observation and reflection, and the need for adaptation.

“Being ‘that old’ in a world of upheaval and change is some sort of achievement,” Hastings said.

“The program was born of an idea ahead of its time and we have continued to play with ideas since.

“We have always recognised the power of watching ourselves and the world around us, and we have always favoured change over the false seduction of stability.”

Lecturer Judy Heard said the anniversary is a great opportunity for staff and students alike to reinvigorate their appetite for learning and teaching.

“The 40 year milestone is a chance to reflect on what it has taken to get to this point,” Heard said.

“Ultimately, we have been single-minded about evolving in the interests of our students. The 40th birthday comes with a responsibility to continue that tradition.

“So, like the 39 years before, we will be doing our best to provide students with an outstanding learning experience.”

See what students think about the program – watch the video on YouTube