Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 110207C) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking to gain the skills and knowledge required to work as an early childhood educator in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00111D), it meets the standards of the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student protections. The course includes a mandatory work component of 29 weeks (approximately 546 total hours) to provide practical experience. Located at the Hawthorn Campus in Melbourne, Victoria, students benefit from Swinburne's strong industry connections and modern facilities. Whether you plan to pursue a career in early childhood education or pathway to further study, this diploma offers a solid foundation. HeadStart Academy is a free resource, and all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance to help you make an informed decision.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 110207C) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 1 year. The course falls under Field of Education 07 - Education, specifically 070101 Teacher Education: Early Childhood. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. The course is offered in English and includes a significant work-integrated learning component: 29 weeks of placement (approximately 546 hours) to ensure graduates are job-ready. The VET national code for this qualification is CHC50121. Swinburne University of Technology (CRICOS 00111D) is a government university with a strong reputation for practical, industry-focused education. This course is available only at the Hawthorn Campus in Hawthorn, Victoria, a Melbourne suburb with excellent public transport links. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is covered by the ESOS Act, guaranteeing your tuition protection and student rights. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses, and this diploma is among the 1,300+ education courses available to international students.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care prepares students to design, implement, and evaluate early childhood programs for children from birth to five years. You will learn about child development, health and safety, inclusive practices, and family partnerships. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, covering areas such as curriculum planning, assessment, and ethical practice. Graduates typically gain skills in fostering children's learning, creating supportive environments, and working collaboratively with families and communities. This diploma meets the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 5 standards, equipping you for roles such as early childhood educator or centre manager. The course also aligns with the National Quality Framework (NQF) and the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). At Swinburne, you will learn from experienced educators and have access to simulated learning environments on campus.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time, with instruction in English. This is a single qualification — no dual qualification or foundation studies are included. Students should expect a combination of classroom learning and workplace-based training. The 52‑week period includes the 29‑week work component, which is integrated into the course schedule. Melbourne, where the Hawthorn Campus is located, is home to over 170 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant study environment. Living costs in Melbourne are typically higher than the national average, with indicative weekly expenses of around $400–$600 for rent, groceries, and transport. However, student concession on public transport and shared accommodation can reduce costs.
Indicative fees for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (110207C) are as follows: Tuition: A$20,760; Non-tuition fees: A$0; Estimated total: A$20,760. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm the current fees on the Swinburne University of Technology website (swinburne.edu.au/international). Additional costs not included in the estimated total include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge (currently A$650 for Subclass 500). OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs around A$500–$600 per year for single cover. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$21,041 per year according to the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — we do not charge fees or receive commissions.
Entry requirements for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care are set by Swinburne University of Technology. Generally, international students need to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (with no band less than 5.5) or equivalent. Additionally, you should have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent, or hold a relevant Certificate III qualification. Some providers may require a police check or Working with Children Check due to the nature of early childhood work. Foundation or pathway programs are not part of this course, but Swinburne offers other pathway options — check the provider's website for details. It is your responsibility to meet both academic and English requirements. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent or the provider directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 29 weeks, with total hours approximately 546 (averaging 18–20 hours per week). This work-integrated learning takes the form of an industry placement in an early childhood setting such as a daycare centre, preschool, or kindergarten. It provides hands-on experience under supervision, allowing you to apply classroom theory to real-world scenarios. The placement is integral to meeting the qualification requirements of CHC50121. Students are responsible for arranging their own placement, with support from the provider. Completion of the work component is necessary to graduate and to meet the licensing requirements for early childhood educators in Australia. International students can count this placement towards their student visa work hours, but note that visa conditions limit paid work to 48 hours per fortnight during term time (unlimited during scheduled breaks).
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at the Hawthorn Campus of Swinburne University of Technology, located at John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria. Hawthorn is a suburb of Melbourne, approximately 6 km east of the CBD. The campus is well-served by public transport, including the Hawthorn train station and multiple tram lines. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, with a student population of over 250,000 international students from around the world. Victoria has over 180 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. Living in Melbourne offers a multicultural experience, diverse food options, and numerous cultural attractions. Weekly rent for a shared house in Hawthorn ranges from $200–$300 per person, while a one-bedroom apartment may cost $400–$500. Groceries and transport add another $150–$200 per week.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key visa requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting English language proficiency. The student visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. You must maintain valid OSHC for the duration of your stay. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet the requirements. For visa details, visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent — always seek professional advice for your specific situation.
Applying for this course involves three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Education), and location (Victoria or Melbourne). Compare fees, duration, and entry requirements.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the Swinburne University of Technology international website (swinburne.edu.au/international) to check application deadlines, submit required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy), and apply online. You may also need to provide a personal statement or references.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Swinburne will issue your CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare evidence of GTE, financial capacity, OSHC, and English proficiency. Processing times vary — apply well in advance.
HeadStart Academy provides free resources to guide you through each step, but we do not handle applications.
Melbourne offers a dynamic environment for studying early childhood education, with many preschools, childcare centres, and community organisations providing placement opportunities. However, consider the following: the cost of living in Melbourne is higher than many other Australian cities, so budget accordingly. The early childhood sector in Australia has strong demand for qualified educators, and graduates of this diploma can work in a variety of settings. Verify that the course leads to registration or licensing if you intend to work in Australia after study. Also, check the specific requirements of your home country if you plan to return. HeadStart Academy data shows that over 26,000 courses are available across Australia, so compare options before deciding.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more Diploma courses in Victoria on HeadStart Academy, or visit Swinburne's website to apply.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care 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.