Bachelor of Education Early Childhood and Primary (CRICOS course code 115407K) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 4 years. This course prepares you to teach children from birth to twelve years, combining early childhood and primary education in one nationally accredited qualification. As a CRICOS-registered course (CRICOS provider code 00300K), it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring you receive a quality education with full ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy sources all course data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), providing you with reliable information to plan your study journey. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available, this program stands out for its unique focus on both early childhood and primary teaching, delivered in the vibrant Northern Territory. Whether you're drawn to small class sizes, Indigenous cultural immersion, or the tropical lifestyle, CDU offers a distinctive pathway into teaching.
This course falls under the field of education 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood, a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7). Graduates typically develop skills in child development, curriculum design, inclusive education, and teaching strategies for children aged 0-12. You'll explore pedagogical approaches specific to early childhood (play-based learning) and primary (literacy, numeracy, STEM) settings. Practicum placements are integrated to provide real classroom experience, ensuring you meet professional teaching standards. CDU emphasises Indigenous perspectives and regional education, preparing you for diverse classrooms in urban, rural, and remote areas.
The program runs for 4 years (208 weeks on the CRICOS register) and is taught entirely in English. It is a single qualification – no dual degree or foundation studies component. You'll study full-time on campus at CDU's Darwin locations. The course is designed for international students, with a structured timetable that balances lectures, tutorials, and practical placements. If you need to adjust your study load, speak with the university about part-time options (subject to visa conditions).
Tuition fees for the Bachelor of Education Early Childhood and Primary are A$125,736 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, student services) add A$1,472, bringing the estimated total to A$127,208. Please note that these figures are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs you must budget for include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (see below), and the student visa application charge. For current fees, always check CDU's official website. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees – we provide this data for free to help you compare options.
International applicants are expected to meet an English language proficiency of IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall (with no band below 5.5–6.0) or an equivalent approved test score. You'll also need to demonstrate prior academic qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 12 or higher, with strong results in English and maths. CDU may offer pathway programs (e.g., Foundation Studies or Diploma) if you don't meet direct entry requirements – contact the university for personalised advice. All entry requirements are set by CDU and should be verified on their website. Remember, meeting minimum entry doesn't guarantee admission; the university assesses each application holistically.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 20 weeks of professional experience, typically 35 hours per week (approximately 700 total hours). This work-integrated learning takes the form of supervised teaching placements in early childhood centres and primary schools. You'll gain hands-on classroom experience under the guidance of qualified mentor teachers, building your confidence and practical skills. Placement locations vary but are arranged by CDU to align with your study schedule. These hours count towards the professional experience requirements for teacher registration in Australia.
The course is delivered at two CDU campuses in the Northern Territory: Casuarina Campus in Casuarina (a northern suburb of Darwin) and the Danala Education and Community Precinct in Darwin City. Darwin is a tropical city with a population of around 150,000, home to a diverse student community from across Australia and the world. Living costs here are moderate: estimated weekly rent for a single room is A$200–350, groceries about A$80–120, and public transport (bus) is affordable with student concessions. There are over a dozen CRICOS-registered providers in Darwin offering a range of courses. The campuses are well-connected by bus routes, and the city's relaxed lifestyle is ideal for focused study.
International students enroled in this course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia. During term time, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight; during scheduled breaks, unlimited hours. You must maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies – you must demonstrate a genuine intention to study and return home after graduation. Financial capacity evidence (tuition fees, living costs, travel) is required. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for your specific situation.
Follow these three steps specific to the Bachelor of Education Early Childhood and Primary at Charles Darwin University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's filters to compare this course with similar programs at other universities. Confirm that CDU's CRICOS registration (00300K) is current. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit CDU's website, review the application deadlines and entry requirements, and submit your application with all supporting documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy). Some programs may have a competitive selection process. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once CDU offers you a place and you accept, they will issue a CoE. Use this to apply online for your visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to organise OSHC and show proof of financial capacity.
Studying in Darwin offers a unique Australian experience. The city has a strong multicultural community, a thriving international student scene, and close proximity to stunning national parks. However, the tropical climate (wet and dry seasons) and remote location mean you'll need to plan for higher airfares and limited public transport compared to larger cities like Sydney or Melbourne. Consider your lifestyle preferences: if you enjoy outdoor activities, cultural diversity, and a close-knit student environment, Darwin could be perfect. Living costs are lower than in capital cities, and CDU provides dedicated support services for international students, including academic skills workshops and accommodation assistance.
Ready to take the next step? Explore your study options at Charles Darwin University or contact HeadStart Academy for more guidance on studying education in Australia.
Bachelor of Education Early Childhood and Primary is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Darwin University (CDU). 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.