Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education (CRICOS course code 113431D) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Victoria University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 program is tailored for international students aiming to pursue a career in early childhood education in Australia or overseas. The course includes a 12-week work placement, providing hands-on experience in Australian early childhood settings. Victoria University is a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 02475D), ensuring that the course meets Australian Government standards for international education. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource covering 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers. Remember, ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, guaranteeing quality education and student rights.
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Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education (CRICOS course code 113431D) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) delivered by Victoria University (CRICOS 02475D) over 1 year (52 weeks). It falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). The program prepares graduates for roles in early childhood teaching, leadership, and advocacy. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is available to international students who wish to study in Australia. Victoria University is a government-owned university with a strong reputation for vocational and higher education. For more details, visit the provider's website at www.vu.edu.au/international.
The Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education focuses on advanced knowledge and skills in early childhood development, curriculum design, family engagement, and inclusive practices. Students explore theories of child development, play-based learning, and assessment strategies for children from birth to 5 years. The program also emphasises leadership and advocacy in early childhood contexts. While the specific syllabus is set by Victoria University, graduates at this level typically develop capabilities to design, implement, and evaluate educational programs in diverse early childhood settings. The qualification aligns with national quality standards and may lead to teacher registration pathways (subject to state requirements).
According to the CRICOS register, the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies component). The course is delivered in a structured format, likely including lectures, tutorials, and practical placements. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. For specific study mode options (e.g., face-to-face, online), refer to Victoria University's website.
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education at Victoria University is A$31,000. There are no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, making the estimated total fee A$31,000. Please note that this amount does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs between A$500 and A$700 per year. Living costs vary by city — for example, in Sydney or Brisbane (where the course is delivered), weekly rent, groceries, and transport can range from A$400 to A$600 per week. Always confirm current fees with Victoria University before applying. Course fees shown are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Typical entry requirements for the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education include an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent English proficiency test). Applicants are generally expected to hold a prior bachelor's degree, though the exact prerequisite may depend on the provider. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements — contact Victoria University for details. Note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. All applicants must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. Always check the provider's website for the most up-to-date entry criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 12 weeks at 35 hours per week, totalling approximately 420 hours. This may take the form of an industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in an early childhood education setting. The placement provides invaluable practical experience, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real Australian childcare centres or preschools. It also helps develop professional networks and enhances employability. International students on a Subclass 500 visa are allowed to undertake work placements as part of their course, but must ensure compliance with visa conditions. For more details on placement arrangements, refer to Victoria University.
Victoria University delivers the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education at two locations: Victoria University Brisbane — Fortitude Valley, QLD, and Victoria University Sydney City Centre — Sydney, NSW. Brisbane and Sydney are major Australian cities with large international student communities. Brisbane has over 40 CRICOS-registered providers, while Sydney has over 100. Both cities offer excellent public transport, diverse cultural experiences, and significant employment opportunities during and after studies. Living costs in Sydney are generally higher than in Brisbane, with average weekly expenses around A$500–A$700 in Sydney and A$400–A$600 in Brisbane. Students can choose the location that best suits their preferences and budget.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. Student work rights: you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. However, you must maintain sufficient attendance and course progress. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be met — you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your student visa. You also need to show financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Applying for the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education at Victoria University involves three key steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Early Childhood Education), and city (Brisbane or Sydney) to find suitable options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Victoria University's website (www.vu.edu.au/international) to check entry requirements, English language test scores, application deadlines, and submit your application. 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 apply for your student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Before enrolling, consider whether you have the required English proficiency and prior academic qualifications. Early childhood education is a regulated profession in Australia — if you plan to work as a teacher, check if the qualification leads to teacher registration in your desired state. Also factor in the cost of living in your chosen city (Brisbane vs Sydney). The work placement is integral, so ensure you are prepared for a 12-week full-time commitment. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so compare multiple options using HeadStart Academy's free resource. Remember, ESOS Act protections ensure your rights as an international student.
Ready to advance your career in early childhood education? Apply now to the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education at Victoria University via their official website.
Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education 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.