Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 106973K) is a Diploma delivered by QIHE PTY LTD over 1 year 3 months (~64 weeks). This practical qualification prepares you to work as an early childhood educator in Australia, combining classroom learning with real-world placement. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for quality education and student welfare. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and updated for accuracy. HeadStart Academy provides this free resource to help international students find genuine study options across Australia's 1,556 registered providers.
This Diploma falls under the field of 09 - Society and Culture, specifically 0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services (Children's Services). You will learn about child development, health and safety, program planning, and inclusive practices. The course develops skills to lead teams, design curricula, and support children's learning and wellbeing. Graduates are typically eligible to work as early childhood educators in long day care, preschool, or family day care settings. The VET national code for this qualification is CHC50121, which aligns with industry requirements. While specific unit details are set by QIHE PTY LTD, this level of study emphasises practical competence and ethical practice.
The course is delivered full-time over 1 year 3 months (~64 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual or combined degree). The study mode is typically on-campus with a work component (see below). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy student visa conditions. During scheduled breaks, you may be eligible for unlimited work hours.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$16,000, plus non-tuition fees of A$1,500, totalling an estimated A$17,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are set by the provider – they are subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the QIHE PTY LTD website (http://www.mastery.edu.au). Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (estimated A$25,000–A$30,000 per year in Brisbane), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting for these upfront.
English proficiency is typically required at IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). You will need to have completed Year 12 or equivalent, plus some prior study in a related field (e.g., Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care). QIHE PTY LTD may have specific prerequisites – check directly. Foundation/pathway options may be available if you do not meet the standard entry; contact the provider for details.
Yes – this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 14 weeks at 20 hours per week (~280 total hours). This is typically an industry placement (e.g., in a childcare centre) where you apply classroom theory in real settings. It helps you gain practical experience and meet licensing requirements. All placements are arranged by QIHE PTY LTD and comply with workplace health and safety standards.
The course is delivered at two locations in Brisbane, QLD: Level 5, 119 Charlotte St Brisbane QLD 4000 and Millenium Sq Level 6 119 Charlotte St Brisbane City QLD 4000. Both are in the Brisbane CBD, close to public transport (e.g., Central Station, Queen Street bus mall). Brisbane is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. Living costs in Brisbane are lower than Sydney or Melbourne – indicative weekly rent (shared) A$200–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, transport A$50–A$70. The city offers a vibrant lifestyle and strong job opportunities in early childhood education.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Financial capacity evidence is required – see the Department of Home Affairs for current thresholds. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and consumer rights.
Follow these three steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm QIHE PTY LTD is registered (CRICOS 03542A) and the course is listed. 2) Apply directly to QIHE PTY LTD – submit your application, academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and meet any specific entry requirements. Check their website for intake dates and deadlines. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Once you hold a valid visa, you can commence your studies. HeadStart Academy does not process applications – always apply through the provider.
Ready to start your early childhood education career? Use the above steps to apply to QIHE PTY LTD today – or explore more Diploma courses in Brisbane on HeadStart Academy.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at QIHE PTY LTD. 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.