Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood) (CRICOS course code 102984F) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 program is designed for international students who want to specialise in early childhood education. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the quality standards of Australian education and allows you to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). At HeadStart Academy, we help you understand the pathway to teaching in Australia’s early childhood sector. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
The Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood) (CRICOS 102984F) is a 1-year graduate-level qualification offered by Southern Cross University (SCU). This program falls under the field of Education (Broad Field 07) with a focus on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It is designed for graduates who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field and wish to gain a teaching qualification in early childhood. The CRICOS registration (01241G for SCU) ensures the course meets Australian government standards for international students. As a Government university, Southern Cross University is committed to delivering high-quality education with a strong emphasis on practical teaching skills.
Students in this Graduate Diploma will explore the foundations of early childhood development, curriculum design, and inclusive education practices. The program covers key areas such as child psychology, play-based learning, family engagement, and assessment strategies for children from birth to five years. Graduates develop the skills to create safe, stimulating learning environments that promote children’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth. While specific subjects may vary, the course is designed to align with the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Graduate level) and prepare you for registration as an early childhood teacher in Australia.
The Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood) is a 1-year full-time program, equivalent to 52 weeks of study as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The course is structured to allow international students to meet the requirements of the Student visa (Subclass 500) with a full-time study load.
Tuition fees for the Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood) are indicative and set by Southern Cross University. The CRICOS register shows an indicative tuition fee of A$26,000, non-tuition fees of A$2,000, and an estimated total of A$28,000. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included in these figures. Always check the current fees on Southern Cross University’s official website (www.scu.edu.au) before applying, as fees are subject to change.
Typical entry requirements for this Graduate Diploma level course include a completed bachelor's degree in any discipline (or equivalent) from a recognised institution. English language proficiency is generally required with an overall IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 or equivalent. Some institutions may have higher requirements. For accurate information, refer to Southern Cross University’s website. If you do not meet the English requirement, pathway programs such as English language courses may be available. Always confirm with the provider.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, 40 hours per week (approximately 480 total hours). This is a work-integrated learning experience, such as a supervised professional placement in an early childhood education setting. You will have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real classrooms under the guidance of qualified teachers. This practical component is essential for developing teaching competencies and meeting professional standards.
The Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood) is delivered at four campuses: Gold Coast Airport Development Park - Bilinga in Bilinga, Queensland; The Hotel School Brisbane in Brisbane, Queensland; The Hotel School Melbourne in Melbourne, Victoria; and The Hotel School Sydney in Sydney, New South Wales. Each location offers access to Australia’s vibrant cities with diverse student communities. For example, Brisbane has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers and a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne (indicative weekly rent A$200–A$350). All campuses are well-served by public transport.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). As a visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies—you must demonstrate a genuine intention to study in Australia. Financial capacity to cover course fees, living costs (approximately A$21,000 per year), and travel must be shown. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personal advice.
Queensland is a popular study destination for education students, with a warm climate and strong demand for early childhood teachers. The state has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, including Southern Cross University’s Gold Coast campus. Brisbane, the state capital, offers a multicultural environment with a student population of over 100,000. Living costs in Queensland are generally lower than in New South Wales or Victoria. If you choose to study in Bilinga, you'll be near the beach and have access to the Gold Coast’s growing education sector. Consider factors like climate, lifestyle, and career opportunities when choosing your location.
Follow these three steps to begin your journey at Southern Cross University: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers and compare courses—focus on Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood) and check entry requirements. 2) Apply directly to Southern Cross University by submitting your academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and completing any required application forms. Note application deadlines. 3) Upon acceptance, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is here to guide you through each step with reliable, up-to-date information.
Ready to take the next step? Explore the Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood) on the official Southern Cross University website, or use HeadStart Academy to compare similar courses across providers.
Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). 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.