Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) (CRICOS course code 085378G) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 4 years. This course is designed for international students who aspire to become qualified early childhood teachers in Australia. As an AQF Level 7 qualification, it provides the foundational knowledge and practical skills required to work with children from birth to five years in various early childhood settings. Swinburne is a CRICOS-registered provider (00111D) with campuses in Hawthorn and Wantirna, Victoria. The program includes a mandatory work component of 13 weeks (689 hours) of professional placement, ensuring graduates are job-ready. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses in Australia, this course stands out as a pathway to a rewarding career in early childhood education.
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This course falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101), part of the broader Education discipline. Students engage with subjects that cover child development, curriculum design, inclusive education, and family engagement. The program emphasizes practical teaching skills through supervised placements in early childhood settings. Graduates emerge with the ability to plan and implement educational programs that foster children's learning and development. While the exact syllabus is set by Swinburne, typical learning outcomes include understanding the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), assessing children's progress, and collaborating with families and communities. The degree also addresses legal and ethical responsibilities in early childhood education, preparing students for registration as early childhood teachers in Australia.
The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) is offered as a single qualification with no dual award. The registered duration is 4 years (208 weeks), as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is delivered in English. Students attend full-time at either the Hawthorn or Wantirna campus. There is no foundation studies component integrated into this course; however, pathway options may be available through the provider for students who do not meet direct entry requirements.
Tuition fees for the full 4-year program are A$120,000, with no additional non-tuition fees recorded on the CRICOS register, leading to an estimated total of A$120,000. Please note that these fees are indicative and sourced from the official CRICOS register as of April 2026. They are set by the institution and subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Swinburne University of Technology. The following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, groceries, transport), and the student visa application charge. For up-to-date fee information, visit Swinburne's international website at https://www.swinburne.edu.au/international.
International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English. The typical requirement is an IELTS overall score of 6.0 to 6.5, with no band below 5.5 to 6.0 (exact bands vary; check with Swinburne). Equivalent scores from other accepted English tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) are also recognized. In addition, applicants need to have completed year 12 or equivalent with results meeting Swinburne's academic entry standards for undergraduate study. Some prior study in relevant fields may be considered. This course does not include a foundation year, but Swinburne offers pathway programs such as diplomas or foundation studies for students who need additional preparation. Contact Swinburne's international admissions for specific requirements.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component. According to the CRICOS register, students complete 13 weeks of professional placement at 53 hours per week, totaling approximately 689 hours. This practical experience is integrated throughout the degree and involves supervised teaching placements in early childhood settings. Students apply theoretical knowledge in real classrooms, develop teaching skills, and build professional networks. Placements may occur in childcare centers, preschools, or early learning centers in and around Melbourne. This work component is essential for meeting the professional standards required for teacher registration in Australia.
This course is delivered at two campuses in Victoria, both operated by Swinburne University of Technology. The Hawthorn Campus is located at John Street, Hawthorn, a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne. Hawthorn is well-served by public transport, including trains and trams, and offers a lively student atmosphere with many cafes and shops. The Wantirna Campus is at 369 Stud Road, Wantirna, in Melbourne's eastern suburbs. Wantirna is a quieter residential area with good access to bus services. Both campuses provide modern learning facilities, libraries, and student support services. Melbourne is home to over 350 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Indicative living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$450–600 per week for rent (shared accommodation), A$80–100 for groceries, and A$40–50 for public transport. These are estimates and vary by lifestyle.
International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, having sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and maintaining health insurance through Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Upon graduation, students may be eligible for post-study work rights (Subclass 485 visa) depending on their qualification. All international students are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to start your journey:
**1. Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's free directory to compare early childhood education courses. Filter by course level (Bachelor Degree), field (Education), and location (Victoria). Confirm that Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D) meets your preferences.
**2. Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and submit your application through Swinburne's international admissions portal. Swinburne may also consider prior learning or pathway qualifications.
**3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once Swinburne offers you a place, you will receive a CoE. Use this CoE to apply for your student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to prove your English proficiency, financial capacity, and genuine temporary stay. Don't forget to arrange OSHC before visa grant.
Victoria, particularly Melbourne, is Australia's leading destination for education students. With over 350 CRICOS-registered providers and a thriving international community, you'll have ample networking and employment opportunities. Early childhood teachers are in high demand across the state. Before choosing, consider factors like climate (temperate with four seasons), cost of living (higher in inner suburbs), and access to placements. Public transport in Melbourne is extensive, with trains, trams, and buses connecting all suburbs. Both Hawthorn and Wantirna campuses are well-connected. Visit each campus if possible to get a feel for the learning environment.
Browse more early childhood education courses on HeadStart Academy and compare providers across Australia.
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. 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.