Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) (CRICOS course code 107556H) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) over 2 years. This postgraduate program prepares graduates to teach children from birth to 12 years, covering both early childhood and primary school settings. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. The University of Melbourne is a leading Australian government university with CRICOS provider code 00116K. This course combines theoretical knowledge with practical teaching experience, including a substantial work component of 15 weeks (450 hours). Located in Parkville, Victoria, students benefit from Melbourne's vibrant education sector and multicultural environment. Tuition fees are indicative at A$122,850, with additional non-tuition fees of A$150. English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall is typically required. HeadStart Academy provides this information sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Graduates are eligible for teacher registration in Australia and can pursue rewarding careers in early learning centres, kindergartens, and primary schools. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, choosing a registered course ensures quality and ESOS Act protections. This page gives you all the details you need to evaluate this program.
This course falls under the field of education (07 - Education, 0701 - Teacher Education, 070103 - Teacher Education: Primary). At Masters level (AQF Level 9), students develop advanced pedagogical knowledge, curriculum design skills, and assessment strategies for both early childhood and primary contexts. Core areas include child development theories, inclusive education practices, literacy and numeracy instruction, and professional teaching standards. The program integrates research-informed teaching with practical application, preparing graduates to meet the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers. While specific syllabi vary, students can expect to engage with contemporary issues in education, classroom management, and family-community partnerships. This comprehensive preparation equips graduates to teach across the birth-to-12 age range, a unique dual qualification that enhances career flexibility.
The Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) is a full-time program lasting 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. Part-time study is generally not available for international students. The 2-year duration meets the Australian requirement for teacher registration and also allows graduates to access post-study work rights for up to 3-4 years depending on visa policy.
The indicative tuition fee for the Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) at The University of Melbourne is A$122,850 for the full 2-year program. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$150, making the total indicative cost A$123,000. Please note: These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. Melbourne's cost of living for a single student is approximately A$25,000–A$30,000 per year, including rent, food, and transport. Fees are set by the institution and subject to annual review — always check the University of Melbourne's official website for the most current fees. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the CRICOS register (April 2026 update) and presents it as a guide only.
Admission to the Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) typically requires a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from a recognised university, with a strong academic record. The University of Melbourne generally requires an IELTS overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band below 6.5) or equivalent English language test results. Some applicants may need to complete prerequisite subjects in areas like English, mathematics, or science, depending on their prior studies. Foundation or pathway programs are not part of this course, but the university offers bridging options for some prerequisites. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. Always refer to the university's website for detailed entry criteria and specific unit prerequisites.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 15 weeks, at 30 hours per week, totalling approximately 450 hours. This takes the form of supervised teaching placements in early childhood settings (such as kindergartens or childcare centres) and primary schools. These placements allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real classrooms under the guidance of experienced mentor teachers. The work component is designed to meet the professional experience requirements for teacher registration in Australia. It also provides valuable networking opportunities and prepares graduates for the demands of the teaching profession. Students are responsible for arranging travel and accommodation for placements, though the university provides support to secure suitable sites.
The Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) is delivered at The University of Melbourne's Parkville campus, located in the inner-north of Melbourne, Victoria. Parkville is a major educational precinct, home to the university's main campus and close to the Melbourne central business district. Melbourne is a vibrant, multicultural city with a large student population (over 150,000 international students). The city offers excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses) making the campus easily accessible. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate for a capital city: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$300–A$500, groceries A$80–A$120, and a public transport travel pass A$50–A$80. Melbourne has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a rich education ecosystem.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your study (2 years). Visa conditions include: maintain enrolment, attend classes adequately, meet course progress requirements, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay. Work rights permit up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. You must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. Also note that ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered providers, safeguarding your tuition fees and visa. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.
Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most livable cities, offering a diverse, student-friendly environment. With over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, including top universities and vocational colleges, the city provides a rich choice of courses. The education sector is a key industry, with strong government support and high standards. Melbourne's cultural scene, affordable (relative to Sydney) cost of living, and excellent public transport make it a top destination for international students. For teaching students, Melbourne offers a range of school settings for practical placements, from inner-city to suburban, and a strong job market for qualified teachers. The city also has dedicated support services for international students, including orientation programs and English language help.
Applying for the Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) at The University of Melbourne is a 3-step process:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Masters), field (Education), and location (Victoria). Confirm the provider is CRICOS-registered (UniMelb code 00116K). Review entry requirements, fees, and delivery mode.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the University of Melbourne's online application portal. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), a personal statement, and any required supporting documents. Be mindful of application deadlines — UniMelb typically has two intakes per year (Feb and July). Some courses require a Teaching Capabilities Assessment or interview.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: If your application is successful, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) online (ImmiAccount). You'll need to provide: CoE, OSHC policy, financial evidence, GTE statement, and health insurance. Visa processing can take 4–8 weeks, so apply early.
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Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Melbourne (UniMelb). 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.