Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education (CRICOS course code 0101340) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Victoria University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for international students who want to pursue a career in early childhood education and care in Australia. With a strong focus on practical teaching skills and theoretical foundations, this program prepares graduates to work with children from birth to five years in a range of early childhood settings. Victoria University is a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider (00124K) and a well-established institution in Melbourne, offering students access to modern campuses and industry connections. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource — all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. Whether you are planning to become an early childhood teacher or seeking advanced qualifications, this course offers a pathway to professional registration. Note that this is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies included. The course is taught entirely in English, and the indicative fee is A$33,800 (tuition only), with non-tuition fees listed as A$0. Always confirm current fees with Victoria University before applying.
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This Graduate Diploma falls under the field of Education (07) with a specific focus on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Students develop advanced knowledge and skills in child development, curriculum design, inclusive practices, and family engagement. The program typically covers areas such as child psychology, early childhood pedagogy, health and safety, and professional ethics. Graduates are prepared to work as early childhood teachers in long day care centres, preschools, and kindergarten programs. As an AQF Level 8 qualification, it builds on prior undergraduate study and provides a pathway to higher-level teaching positions or further study in education. Note that this description is a general guide — specific syllabus details should be obtained from Victoria University.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification — there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students will need to commit to full-time study, although specific study modes (e.g., on-campus, blended) should be confirmed with the provider. The course is delivered at two Victoria University campuses: City Campus (Melbourne CBD) and Footscray Nicholson Campus in FOOTSCRAY. Both locations are well-served by public transport, including trains, trams, and buses. Melbourne has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 1,500 courses, making it Australia's largest international student destination. Living costs in Melbourne are around A$450–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport combined (indicative only).
The tuition fee for this course is A$33,800 per year, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. The estimated total fee is therefore A$33,800. Please note that this fee does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs around A$500–700 per year for single cover. Living costs are estimated at A$21,041 per year by the Department of Home Affairs (for single students). Always check Victoria University's official website for the most current fee schedule, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy displays indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
International students are generally expected to have completed a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field, such as early childhood education or teaching. The English language requirement is typically IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall, with no band below 5.5 (or equivalent test). Some students may be eligible for pathway programs or foundation studies; however, this course does not include a foundation component, so you will need to meet the entry criteria directly. For exact requirements, including accepted English tests and prior qualifications, refer to Victoria University's admissions page. Note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission — the university assesses each application individually.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 12 weeks of supervised placement, with 35 hours per week, totalling approximately 420 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically takes the form of a teaching practicum or internship in an early childhood setting. It allows you to apply theoretical knowledge in real classrooms under the guidance of experienced teachers. Such placements are essential for developing practical skills and meeting professional accreditation standards. Victoria University may arrange placements at partner childcare centres or kindergartens in Melbourne. Ensure you have a valid working with children check and any other required clearances before commencing placement.
This course is delivered at two Victoria University campuses in Melbourne, Victoria: Victoria University City Campus (City Tower) in the Melbourne CBD, and Victoria University Footscray Nicholson Campus in FOOTSCRAY. The City Campus is located at 300 Flinders Street, close to Flinders Street Station and Federation Square. The Footscray campus is in the inner-west suburb, about 5 km from the CBD, with access to trains and buses. Both campuses offer modern facilities, libraries, and student support services. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students from 170+ countries, making it a vibrant and multicultural study destination. Victoria itself has more than 500 CRICOS-registered providers offering over 10,000 courses.
International students enrolled in this course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To obtain a visa, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Victoria University, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity, and hold valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (subject to current immigration regulations). After completing this Graduate Diploma, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet the requirements. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education at Victoria University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Education), and location (Victoria). Confirm that Victoria University (CRICOS 00124K) is registered to deliver this course.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Victoria University's website (vu.edu.au) to review exact entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with supporting documents (transcripts, CV, English test results). International students may apply online or through an authorised education agent.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, Victoria University will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds for tuition and living costs.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, offering a high quality of life, diverse culture, and excellent public transport. With over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, students have access to a wide range of courses. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$200–300, groceries A$80–100, and public transport A$40–50. Melbourne also has a strong early childhood education sector, with many placement opportunities. However, consider the weather (variable) and competitive housing market. This course is a great choice if you want to study in a dynamic urban environment with strong professional networks.
Ready to start your journey in early childhood education? Visit Victoria University's website to apply for the Graduate Diploma or use HeadStart Academy to explore more CRICOS-registered courses.
Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education is a CRICOS-registered programme at Victoria University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.