Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) (CRICOS course code 114036G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd over 2 years. This program prepares graduates to teach in both early childhood settings (birth to 5 years) and primary schools (Foundation to Year 6) in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03739K), it meets the standards required for international students to obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500) and is protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. With a strong focus on practical teaching experience, the course includes a mandatory 40-week work component, ensuring graduates are classroom-ready. The indicative total cost is A$62,350, covering tuition and non-tuition fees. This page provides a detailed breakdown of the course structure, entry requirements, delivery locations in Adelaide and Melbourne, and the steps to apply. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) (CRICOS course code 114036G) is a Masters Degree (Coursework) delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd over 2 years. The course is classified under Field of Education 07 - Education, subfield 0701 - Teacher Education, with a focus on early childhood (070101). It is designed for graduates who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-teaching field and wish to become qualified teachers in both early childhood and primary settings. The program combines theoretical studies with extensive practical experience, including a mandatory 40-week work component. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for teacher registration in Australia, subject to state-based regulatory body requirements. Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd is a private higher education provider registered on CRICOS (03739K), meaning international students can enrol with full ESOS Act protections. The course is offered at two campuses: 14-16 Grote Street, Adelaide, SA, and 530-538 Victoria Street, North Melbourne, Victoria 3051. As of April 2026, there are over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses to international students, and this course is one of the specialist teaching pathways available.
This master's degree focuses on developing pedagogical knowledge and practical skills for teaching young children (birth to 5 years) and primary students (Foundation to Year 6). The curriculum typically covers child development, curriculum design, assessment strategies, inclusive education, literacy and numeracy teaching, and professional ethics. Students learn how to plan and implement engaging learning experiences that meet diverse learner needs. At the master's level, there is an emphasis on evidence-based practice, research-informed teaching, and critical reflection. The course also includes subject-specific studies in areas like early childhood pedagogy, primary curriculum subjects (e.g., mathematics, science, humanities), and professional placements. While the exact syllabus is determined by the provider, graduates can expect to develop the competencies required for provisional teacher registration in Australia. The field of education is one of the most popular among international students, with Australia hosting thousands of teaching students each year across all states.
The Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) is a 2-year full-time program, listed as 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual degree) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes on campus in either Adelaide or North Melbourne, with a blended learning approach that may include online components. The program is designed to be completed in two academic years, with intakes typically available in February and July. The full-time study load meets the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500), which typically requires 20 contact hours per week. Part-time study is not permitted for international students on a Student visa. The course structure includes both theoretical coursework and supervised professional experience, ensuring a balanced educational journey.
The indicative fees for the Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) (114036G) are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition fees are A$60,600 for the entire program, with non-tuition fees of A$1,750, bringing the estimated total to A$62,350. Non-tuition fees may include application charges, enrolment processing, and materials fees. Please note these fees are indicative and set by Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd. They are subject to change and do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the Student visa application charge. International students should budget for OSHC (approximately A$600–A$2,000 per year depending on coverage), living expenses (A$21,041 per year for a single student as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines), and visa application fees (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). Always confirm the latest fees directly with the provider via their website at http://www.scei-he.edu.au. HeadStart Academy does not charge any referral fees or commissions — we provide this data as a free resource.
Specific entry requirements are set by Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd. However, for a Masters Degree (Coursework) in Teaching, international students typically need: a recognised bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in any discipline with a minimum grade point average; an English language proficiency test such as IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 to 7.0 (with no band less than 6.5 or 7.0 in speaking and listening, depending on the provider); and a personal statement or interview demonstrating suitability for teaching. Some providers also require non-academic attributes tests like CASPer or a teaching readiness assessment. If applicants do not meet the English requirement, pathway options such as English language intensive courses (ELICOS) may be available. However, this course does not include foundation studies. It is essential to check the exact entry requirements on the provider's website and consult with their admissions team. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and cannot assess eligibility.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 40 weeks, with 25 hours per week, totalling approximately 1,000 hours. This is an integrated professional experience, such as supervised teaching placements in early childhood centres and primary schools. Work-integrated learning (WIL) is a core part of teacher education in Australia, allowing students to apply theory in real classrooms under the guidance of experienced mentors. Placements are arranged by the provider and may take place in various settings within Adelaide or Melbourne. The work component is a requirement for teacher registration and helps students build practical skills, confidence, and professional networks. International students on a Student visa can undertake work placements as part of their course. Additionally, students have work rights allowing 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) is delivered at two campuses: 14-16 Grote Street, Adelaide, SA 5000, and 530-538 Victoria Street, North Melbourne, Victoria 3051. Adelaide is a cost-effective city for students, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around $250-$350, and public transport costs about $40 per week. Melbourne is more expensive, with similar weekly rent around $350-$500 and transport costs about $50 per week. Both cities have vibrant student populations and excellent public transport connections to the campuses. The Adelaide campus is in the city centre, close to shops, libraries, and transport hubs. The North Melbourne campus is near the CBD, walking distance to Victoria Market and tram stops. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and choosing the right city depends on your preferences for lifestyle and cost.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, plus additional time for travel. You must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS course, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, and hold adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). As a student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Visa conditions include maintaining welfare arrangements if under 18, not engaging in work that is not part of your course, and not violating work hours. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies — you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. All CRICOS-registered courses are covered by the ESOS Act, which provides tuition fee protection, complaints handling through the Overseas Students Ombudsman, and transparent information. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) at Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy or the official CRICOS register to confirm that this course (114036G) and provider (03739K) are registered. Compare this program with other teaching courses in Adelaide and Melbourne.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit the provider's website at http://www.scei-he.edu.au and complete the application form. Submit academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS 6.5-7.0), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and conditions.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE via email. Use this to apply for the Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient finances, and meet the GTE requirement.
HeadStart Academy is a free resource — we do not charge for information or referrals. For visa application assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Choosing between Adelaide and Melbourne depends on your budget, lifestyle, and career goals. Adelaide offers a lower cost of living — weekly rent for a student is around $200-$350, and public transport is cheaper. It has a quieter, more affordable lifestyle with a growing international student community. Melbourne is larger, with more diverse cultural experiences, higher living costs (rent $350-$500 per week), and extensive public transport. Both cities have strong education sectors; Adelaide has over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, while Melbourne has over 300. The teaching job market is competitive in both cities. Consider your personal preferences and research the local teaching registration requirements. HeadStart Academy provides detailed guides for each state to help you decide.
Ready to apply? Visit the Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) Pty Ltd website to check exact fees and entry requirements, then follow our three-step application guide.
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Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross Education Institute (Higher Education) 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.