Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (CRICOS course code 096869G) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Victoria University over 3 years. This program is designed for international students who aspire to become early childhood educators, preparing graduates to work with children from birth to five years in a range of settings including preschools, childcare centres, and kindergartens. As a CRICOS-registered course (096869G) at Victoria University (CRICOS 00124K), it meets Australian education standards and qualifies graduates for teacher registration in Australia. The course combines theoretical study with practical work-integrated learning, ensuring students gain hands-on experience. Victoria University is a government-funded public university with multiple campuses in Melbourne and Footscray, offering students access to vibrant city life and diverse communities. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses available in Australia, this degree stands out as a pathway to a rewarding career in early childhood education. HeadStart Academy provides free, unbiased information sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions.
The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (CRICOS 096869G) is a full-time, 3-year bachelor degree at AQF Level 7. It is classified under Field of Education 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood. The program is delivered in English and does not include foundation studies or dual qualifications. The course includes a mandatory work component of 27 weeks (540 hours) of professional placement, providing students with real-world experience in early childhood settings. Victoria University is a respected public university with a strong focus on practical learning and community engagement. The course is offered at three campuses: City Campus in Melbourne's CBD, Footscray Nicholson, and Footscray Park – all located in Victoria, Australia. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students and offers a high quality of life with excellent public transport and a vibrant culture.
The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education covers the theory and practice of teaching young children. Students learn about child development, curriculum design, inclusive education, family partnerships, and professional ethics. The program emphasises play-based learning, cultural responsiveness, and evidence-based teaching strategies. Graduates are prepared to meet the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers and are eligible for registration as early childhood teachers. While the specific syllabus may vary, the course typically includes subjects on child health, safety, and nutrition, as well as supervised teaching placements. This degree equips students to create nurturing and stimulating learning environments for children from birth to five years.
According to the CRICOS register, the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education has a duration of 156 weeks (3 years) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies. The program is primarily on-campus, with some online components possible. Students are expected to attend classes at one of Victoria University's campuses: City Campus (Melbourne), Footscray Nicholson, or Footscray Park. The course structure includes lectures, tutorials, workshops, and supervised professional placements.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$106,522, with additional non-tuition fees of A$700, giving an estimated total of A$107,222. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Victoria University. They are subject to change, so always confirm with the provider. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included in this estimate. For current fee information, visit Victoria University's website. Melbourne's cost of living for an international student is approximately A$30,000 per year, including rent (A$200–A$350 per week for shared accommodation), groceries, and transport.
Applicants typically need to meet academic and English language requirements. For this bachelor degree, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0-6.5 overall with no band below 5.5-6.0 is generally required. Equivalent English tests (TOEFL, PTE) are also accepted. Academic entry usually requires completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualifications. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry criteria – check with Victoria University. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider's website for detailed entry requirements.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 27 weeks, totalling approximately 540 hours at 20 hours per week. This takes the form of supervised professional placements in early childhood education settings such as preschools, childcare centres, or kindergartens. These placements allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real classrooms, develop teaching skills, and build professional networks. The work component is a key part of the degree and is necessary for teacher registration in Australia.
The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education is delivered at three Victoria University campuses: Victoria University City Campus (City Tower) in Melbourne's CBD, Victoria University Footscray Nicholson, and Victoria University Footscray Park. All campuses are located in metropolitan Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a diverse population and strong job market for educators. Students have access to excellent public transport, including trains and trams connecting Footscray to the city center in under 15 minutes.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study in a CRICOS-registered course and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). To apply, you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. The ESOS Act protects international students, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education at Victoria University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify that Victoria University (CRICOS 00124K) and course 096869G are current. Consider course level, field, and city. 2. Apply directly to Victoria University: Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines on the university's website. Submit your application online with required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the university issues a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and financial evidence.
Melbourne is a top study destination with over 200,000 international students. It offers world-class education, diverse culture, and a strong job market. The city has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood education courses. Living costs average A$30,000 per year. Public transport is extensive, and Footscray campuses are well-connected. Consider your budget, climate preference, and career goals when choosing Melbourne. For early childhood education, Victoria has a high demand for qualified teachers, with many job opportunities upon graduation.
Ready to apply? Follow the three steps above or contact Victoria University directly to start your journey in early childhood education.
Bachelor of 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.