Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 111134G) is a Diploma delivered by Victoria University over 43 weeks (~10 months). This qualification prepares you to work as an early childhood educator in a range of settings, including long day care, family day care, and preschool programs. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00124K), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Victoria University, a government-funded institution, offers this diploma at its Footscray Nicholson campus in Melbourne, a city with over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and a thriving international student community. The indicative total cost is A$18,515, excluding living expenses and health cover. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, sourced directly from the CRICOS register as of April 2026. Always verify details with the provider and the Department of Home Affairs for visa requirements.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 111134G) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Victoria University (CRICOS 00124K) over 43 weeks (~10 months). This course falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101), focusing on the development and education of children from birth to school age. The program includes a work component of 10 weeks (approximately 300 hours) to provide practical experience. The tuition fee is A$18,170, with additional non-tuition fees of A$345, totalling A$18,515. These indicative fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change by the provider. International students must also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges. Victoria University is a public university with multiple campuses; this course is delivered at Footscray Nicholson in Melbourne. HeadStart Academy recommends always checking the provider's website for the most current fee information.
This diploma equips you with the knowledge and skills to design, implement, and evaluate early childhood programs that support children's learning and development. You will learn about child development from infancy to five years, inclusive practices, ethical frameworks, and how to engage with families and communities. The field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood covers pedagogical approaches, curriculum design, and assessment strategies specific to early childhood settings. Graduates typically pursue roles as early childhood educators, centre directors, or family day care coordinators. While this overview provides general guidance, the specific syllabus may vary. Contact Victoria University for a detailed course outline. HeadStart Academy sources all course information from the CRICOS register to ensure accuracy.
The course duration is 43 weeks (~10 months) 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. Students are expected to attend full-time classes at the delivery location. Victoria University may offer flexible study arrangements; confirm directly with the provider. International students must maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative fees for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 111134G) are set by Victoria University and sourced from the CRICOS register: tuition fee A$18,170, non-tuition fees A$345, estimated total A$18,515. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor living costs or the visa application charge. Living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$500–A$700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always check the provider's website for current fees before applying. HeadStart Academy is not responsible for fee changes; the figures shown are indicative only as at April 2026.
To enrol in this diploma, you will generally need an overall IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent English proficiency test). Prior qualifications expected: typically completion of Year 12 or equivalent, or a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Some providers may also consider relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the direct entry requirements — contact Victoria University for details. HeadStart Academy advises that entry requirements are set by the institution; verify with the provider. All international students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for the student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 10 weeks of industry placement, totalling approximately 300 hours. This work-integrated learning allows you to apply theoretical knowledge in real early childhood settings, such as childcare centres or preschools. You will gain hands-on experience in planning activities, supervising children, and working with families. The placement is arranged by the provider and may require a Working with Children Check. Successful completion of the placement is a requirement for the qualification. The work component is integral to meeting the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards for early childhood educators.
This course is delivered at Victoria University Footscray Nicholson campus, located in FOOTSCRAY, VIC, a suburb of Melbourne. Footscray is approximately 5 km west of the Melbourne CBD and well-connected by train and bus. Melbourne is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Living costs in Melbourne are higher than the national average; students should budget accordingly. The campus offers modern facilities including libraries, computer labs, and student support services. Public transport access is convenient, with Footscray station a short walk away. For more details on studying in Victoria, visit our state guide.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfactory course progress, and valid OSHC cover. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion to demonstrate your intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity requirements include tuition, living costs, and travel expenses. HeadStart Academy strongly recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised visa advice. This information is a guide only and does not constitute migration assistance.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's free database to filter by course level, field, and location. Confirm that Victoria University (CRICOS 00124K) offers the course and meets your requirements. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Victoria University's website (vu.edu.au) to review specific entry requirements, English language test scores, application deadlines, and supporting documents. Submit your application online through the provider's portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Victoria University will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet the GTE requirement. For step-by-step visa guidance, refer to our student visa page.
Victoria, particularly Melbourne, is a top destination for international students. With over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, it offers diverse study options and a multicultural environment. The state has a strong focus on education and early childhood services, with many job opportunities for graduates. However, living costs in Melbourne are relatively high: average weekly rent for a share house is around A$250–A$350, and public transport is A$45–A$60 per week. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences. Victoria also has cooler winters and four distinct seasons. HeadStart Academy's state guide provides more insights into living and studying in Victoria. Ensure you choose a course and location that match your career goals and financial situation.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care 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.