Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education (CRICOS course code 114294M) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Deakin University (Deakin) over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for international students seeking to specialize in early childhood education within Australia’s reputable education system. Deakin University, a government-funded institution (CRICOS 00113B), offers this course at its Melbourne Burwood Campus in Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. With a strong focus on work-integrated learning, including a mandatory 12-week placement, graduates gain practical experience essential for careers in early childhood settings. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make informed decisions. Remember, studying in Australia means choosing from over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses—this page zooms in on one of them. For personalized visa advice, consult a registered migration agent.
Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education (CRICOS course code 114294M) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) delivered by Deakin University (Deakin) over 1 year (52 weeks). It belongs to the field of Education (07 - Teacher Education, n.e.c. 070199). This course is designed for international students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and wish to deepen their expertise in early childhood education. As a single qualification (no dual award), it provides focused study without foundation studies. The language of instruction is English. Deakin University is a government-funded institution, CRICOS-registered (00113B), ensuring compliance with the ESOS Act and Australian quality standards. This course includes a work component: 12 weeks of industry placement at 35 hours per week (approx. 420 hours total). All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource—no referral fees, just accurate data.
While specific syllabi are set by Deakin University, graduate diplomas in early childhood education typically cover advanced theories of child development, curriculum design for children from birth to five years, inclusive practices, family engagement, and leadership in early childhood settings. Students learn to create safe, nurturing learning environments and critically analyze policies affecting the sector. The program bridges theory and practice, preparing graduates for roles such as early childhood teachers, center directors, or policy advisors. Study may include research methods and contemporary issues in early childhood education. Since this is a graduate-level qualification, prior knowledge from a bachelor’s degree is assumed. For exact subject details, refer to the provider’s website.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). It is delivered in English as a single qualification (no dual or nested awards). There are no foundation studies components. The study mode is typically full-time on-campus at the Melbourne Burwood Campus, though intakes may vary. International students should maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. Deakin University may offer flexible learning options; check with the provider. Victoria’s capital city, Melbourne, is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant student community. Living costs in Melbourne average A$450–600 per week for rent, A$80–150 for groceries, and A$30–50 for public transport. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student.
Course fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. For Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education at Deakin University (Deakin), the estimated tuition fee is A$38,400. Non-tuition fees are A$0 (as listed), but note that additional costs may apply for materials or fieldwork. The estimated total is A$38,400. This does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders—budget approx. A$500–700 per year. Living costs in Melbourne are around A$21,000–25,000 per year. Always confirm current fees directly with Deakin University at their website (http://www.deakin.edu.au/). Fees are subject to change.
As a graduate diploma, applicants typically need a completed bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in any discipline. English language proficiency is required: the CRICOS register indicates IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Deakin University may require higher scores; check their website for exact band requirements. Prior academic background in education is not always mandatory but may be preferred. No foundation studies are offered with this course. For international students, meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion is essential. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting Deakin University directly for detailed entry conditions and any prerequisite subjects. All information is general guidance—not a substitute for official admissions criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 12 weeks of industry placement at 35 hours per week (approximately 420 hours total). Work-integrated learning (WIL) such as professional placements, internships, or clinical practice is common in teacher education programs. For early childhood education, placements usually occur in registered childcare centers, kindergartens, or preschools, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge under supervision. This hands-on experience is invaluable for building professional networks and meeting accreditation requirements. The placement is typically arranged by Deakin University in collaboration with host organizations. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for work-integrated learning. The Student visa (Subclass 500) permits unlimited hours for mandatory work placements if part of the course.
Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education is delivered at Deakin University's Melbourne Burwood Campus, located in Burwood, Victoria. This campus is well-connected by public transport (trams and buses) and close to Melbourne’s city center. Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city, with a diverse international student population. The state of Victoria (VIC) hosts over 200 CRICOS-registered institutions. Living in Burwood offers proximity to shopping centers, parks, and student accommodation. Housing costs in this area range from A$250–450 per week for shared apartments. For more about studying in Victoria, explore HeadStart Academy's state page.
Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world’s most livable cities and is a top study destination for international students. It offers a multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a thriving arts scene. Living costs are higher than in regional areas but lower than Sydney. With over 200,000 international students, you'll find strong support networks. However, the competitive job market and housing costs are considerations. If you prefer a smaller city, Deakin also has campuses in Geelong and Warrnambool (though this course is only at Burwood). Consider your lifestyle preferences and career goals when choosing where to study. HeadStart Academy provides data on all CRICOS courses across Australia to help you compare.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. For the mandatory placement, visa conditions allow work-integrated learning as part of the course. Remember, maintaining enrolment and attendance is essential. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent—for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
Follow these three steps to apply for Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education at Deakin University (Deakin):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare Deakin University with other providers offering similar graduate diplomas in Victoria.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements (including English test scores like IELTS), prepare academic transcripts, and submit your application via Deakin’s online portal. Note application deadlines (typically semester-based).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, Deakin will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of OSHC, finances, and GTE. For guidance, consult a migration agent.
Ready to apply? Explore more Graduate Diploma courses in Victoria or start your research with HeadStart Academy's course finder.
Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education is a CRICOS-registered programme at Deakin University (Deakin). 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.