The Faculty of Education and Arts is committed to supporting world-leading, impactful research across the fields of education, psychology, arts, and humanities. Our research in these diverse areas consistently ranks among the best both nationally and globally.

“Research activities and engagement within the faculty are organised through two national schools, one centre, and four institutes. Our academics and researchers are at the forefront of creating new knowledge and driving innovation in key focus areas, with many receiving global recognition for their significant contributions to their fields.”

“Dedicated to creating real-world impact beyond academia, we collaborate with schools, government agencies and community organisations both nationally and internationally. Our commitment to higher degree research training is reflected in our robust master’s and PhD programs enrolling over 100 doctoral candidates.”

Professor Clarence Ng
Associate Dean, Research

  • ACU Ranked 1st

    for scientific impact across all disciplines in Australia.2

  • ACU Ranked 12th

    in the world for our research quality in education.3

  • ACU Ranked 1st

    for our research quality across all disciplines in Australia.1

  • ACU Ranked 1st

    in the world for research quality in psychology.3

Our Research Framework

In practice:

  • Celebration and Capacity Building – Recognising achievement and building skills through mentoring, training, and shared learning.
  • Collaboration and Diversity of Expertise – Bringing together different disciplines, experiences, and perspectives to strengthen outcomes.
  • Contribution and Impact – Focusing on projects that influence policy, improve practice, and deliver measurable benefits.
  • Connection and Knowledge Co-creation – Working with communities and partners to generate and share knowledge that matters.
Four priorities — Capacity Building; Diversity of Expertise; Contribution & Impact; Connection & Co-creation—surrounding the Faculty vision: a vibrant hub of research excellence and impact.”

“At the Institute for Positive Psychology and Education, our research doesn’t just generate groundbreaking knowledge—it transforms and enriches lives and communities. By harnessing the power of rigorous, international scientific research, we deliver data-driven solutions to the most pressing challenges of our time—particularly in education, wellbeing, and equity. Our work empowers individuals, families, and communities not just to succeed, but to thrive and flourish.”

Professor Rhonda Craven
Director of the Institute for Positive Psychology and Education
  1. Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025
  2. 2024 CWTS Leiden Rankings, based on the proportion of the university's papers that are in the top 10 per cent most frequently cited. First in Australia for Biomedical and Health Sciences and Social Sciences and Humanities publications.
  3. Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025

Institutes

Institute for Positive Psychology and Education (IPPE)

IPPE is leading research that integrates positive psychology and educational practices to enhance wellbeing and learning outcomes.

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Institute for Learning Sciences and Teacher Education (ILSTE)

ILSTE is at the forefront of research in education, with a strong emphasis on informing evidence-based practices and policies.

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Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences (IHSS)

IHSS is a hub for interdisciplinary research in the humanities and social sciences, addressing a wide range of contemporary issues and contributing to academic and public discourse.

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Institute of Child Protection Studies

Institute of Child Protection Studies (ICPS)

ICPS is committed to advancing the safety, wellbeing and rights of children through rigorous research and impactful practice. Through its initiatives, ICPS aims to inform policy, improve practice and ultimately enhance outcomes for children and their communities.

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Centre and Schools

Australian Centre for the Advancement of Literacy

The Centre is committed to advancing literacy education through cutting-edge research and evidence-based practices. Its on-site Literacy Clinic provides evidence-based assessments and interventions for children, adolescents and adults, and delivers professional development opportunities for teachers and clinicians.

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National School of Education

The National School of Education is dedicated to advancing the field of education and improving educational outcomes for all students through comprehensive research and innovative teaching practices.

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ACU history and geography students study the ancient Roman town of Herculaneum.

National School of Arts and Humanities

The National School of Arts and Humanities is dedicated to advancing knowledge and addressing contemporary challenges across a wide range of disciplines within the arts and humanities.

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News and events

News
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