Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 112181C) is a Diploma delivered by Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks). This program equips you with advanced skills to lead and manage early childhood services in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets strict Australian quality standards for international students. Whether you aim to work in childcare centres, preschools, or family day care, this diploma opens doors to leadership roles. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. Always verify with the provider and consult the Department of Home Affairs for visa details.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of Vocational Education and Training 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.
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| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| CRICOS course code | 112181C |
| Course name | Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care |
| AQF level | Diploma (Level 5) |
| Field of education | 070199 Teacher Education, n.e.c. |
| Provider | Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd (04008D) |
| Duration | 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks) |
| Language | English |
| Work component | 7 weeks (280 hours) |
| Tuition fee (indicative) | A$18,500 |
| Non-tuition fee (indicative) | A$1,500 |
| Estimated total | A$20,000 |
| English requirement (guide) | IELTS 5.5-6.0 |
| Delivery locations | Melbourne Campus (MELBOURNE); Melbourne CBD (DOCKLANDS) |
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 112181C) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) offered by Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04008D). The course falls under Field of Education 07 - Education (070199 Teacher Education, n.e.c.). It is designed for those who want to take on supervisory or management roles in early childhood settings. The program includes a mandatory work component of 7 weeks (280 hours) to provide real-world experience. This course is single qualification (not dual) and does not include foundation studies. The VET national code is CHC50121. All data is sourced from the CRICOS register and is current as at 1 April 2026.
Graduates of this Diploma level course learn to design, implement, and evaluate programs for children from birth to five years. They develop skills in curriculum planning, team leadership, family engagement, and regulatory compliance. Typical study areas include child development, behaviour guidance, health and safety, and inclusive practices. This qualification reflects the role of educators who work in regulated early childhood education and care services in Australia. While specific subjects are set by the provider, the focus is on practical skills and theoretical knowledge to meet National Quality Standards.
The course duration is 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students attend classes at the provider's Melbourne campuses. Full-time study is typical, with the work component integrated into the schedule. For exact timetables, contact Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd.
Tuition fee: A$18,500. Non-tuition fee: A$1,500. Estimated total: A$20,000. These fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). They are set by Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd and subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at https://www.acvet.edu.au/. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For living costs, Melbourne's indicative weekly rent is around A$300-$450, groceries A$80-$150, and public transport A$50-$60 (concession available). Use the Australian Government's Cost of Living Calculator for estimates.
Applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). For a Diploma (AQF Level 5), you generally need completion of Year 12 (or equivalent). Some providers may require a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options: contact Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd for specific entry routes. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee enrolment — the provider assesses each application. English language waivers may be possible for certain countries — check directly.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component of 7 weeks (40 hours per week, ~280 total hours). This is a supervised industry placement in an approved early childhood setting. It allows you to apply classroom learning in real environments, gain practical skills, and build professional networks. Placements are arranged by the provider but may require students to meet immunisation and background check requirements. Work-integrated learning (WIL) like this is common in VET courses and enhances employability.
The course is delivered at two locations: Melbourne Campus in MELBOURNE, VIC, and Melbourne CBD in DOCKLANDS, VIC. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant student population of over 250,000 international students. It has excellent public transport via trains, trams, and buses. Both campuses are well-connected. Melbourne offers a diverse cultural scene, moderate living costs compared to Sydney, and access to major employers in early childhood education. There are over 20 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria offering education courses.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: maintain valid enrolment, attend classes, meet course progress, and hold OSHC. During term, you can work 48 hours per fortnight; during scheduled breaks, unlimited hours. You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year for 2026), and OSHC (approx A$500-$700/year for single cover). ESOS Act protections apply — all CRICOS courses meet quality standards. For visa help, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to start your Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care? Visit Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd's website to apply today.
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