Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 115505H) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Massey College Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This program is designed for international students seeking a career in early childhood education, combining theoretical knowledge with practical work experience. As a CRICOS-registered course (CRICOS 03939B), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. You will study at the Lonsdale Street Campus in Melbourne, Victoria, a city with over 200,000 international students and a vibrant education sector. The course includes a mandatory work component of 7 weeks (280 hours), allowing you to gain hands-on experience in an Australian early childhood setting. With indicative fees totaling A$21,000 (including tuition and non-tuition costs), this Diploma offers a pathway to employment in childcare centres, preschools, and early learning environments. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides this free resource to help you make informed study decisions.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 115505H) is a Diploma delivered by Massey College Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification falls under the field of Education (07) with a focus on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). The course is designed to prepare graduates for roles such as early childhood educator, group leader, or centre director. It combines theoretical subjects with practical placement to meet Australian industry standards. Massey College Pty Ltd is a private registered provider (CRICOS 03939B) offering this course exclusively at its Lonsdale Street Campus in Melbourne, VIC. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual awards).
This Diploma covers the core competencies required to work in early childhood education settings. Students learn about child development, play-based learning, curriculum design, health and safety, and family engagement. The curriculum aligns with the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards and the Early Years Learning Framework. Graduates develop skills to plan, implement, and evaluate educational programs for children from birth to school age. The course also emphasises reflective practice, teamwork, and communication with families. While specific unit codes are not listed here, the vocational national code for this qualification is CHC50121, indicating alignment with national training packages. The field of education (070101) ensures graduates meet the educational requirements for roles in regulated childcare services in Australia.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Massey College Pty Ltd has a duration of 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, meaning you will receive only the Diploma upon completion (no dual awards or foundation studies included). Students are expected to attend classes full-time at the Lonsdale Street Campus, with a combination of face-to-face lectures, tutorials, and self-directed study. The course includes a work component (see below). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register, are as follows: Tuition fee A$18,500, Non-tuition fees A$2,500 (covering materials, administration), for an estimated total of A$21,000. Please note that these fees are set by Massey College Pty Ltd and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider before applying. Additional costs not included in this estimate are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., accommodation, food, transport), and the Student visa application charge. For Melbourne, indicative weekly living costs are around A$450–A$600 for a single student, including rent, groceries, and public transport. ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition fees are safeguarded. For the most up-to-date fee schedule, visit the Massey College website.
International students must meet English language proficiency requirements. For this Diploma, an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) is typically expected. Prior academic qualifications: completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas secondary schooling is usually required. Some providers may accept relevant work experience or foundation studies. Students without direct entry may consider pathway programs, such as a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, which can lead into this Diploma. Always check with Massey College Pty Ltd for specific entry requirements and acceptable English tests. Remember, meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; each application is assessed individually.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 7 weeks, totalling approximately 280 hours (at 40 hours per week). This is an industry placement in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. The work-integrated learning allows you to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world environment, develop professional skills, and network with employers. Placement is arranged by the college but may require you to meet specific health and background check requirements. This hands-on experience is a key feature of vocational education in Australia and can enhance your employability upon graduation.
The course is delivered at Massey College Pty Ltd’s Lonsdale Street Campus in Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is Australia’s second-largest city and a major education hub, home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering education courses. The campus is located in the central business district (CBD), with easy access to public transport (trams, trains, buses). Living in Melbourne offers a multicultural environment, with a student population exceeding 200,000. The city is known for its arts, culture, and diverse food scene. Typical weekly rent for a shared apartment is between A$200 and A$350, and a public transport concession ticket costs around A$30 per week. Consider these factors when budgeting for your studies.
Melbourne is a popular destination for international students studying education. With numerous CRICOS-registered providers, you have options to compare courses. The city offers strong job opportunities in early childhood education, with many childcare centres seeking qualified staff. However, living costs are higher than in regional areas, so budget accordingly. Melbourne’s climate is variable, with cool winters and warm summers. If you prefer a bustling urban environment with excellent public transport and cultural diversity, Melbourne is an excellent choice. For those seeking a quieter setting, regional Victoria also has quality providers.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The course duration of 78 weeks meets the requirement for a full-time study load. Visa conditions include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS course, attend at least 80% of scheduled classes, and make satisfactory course progress. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. Additionally, you must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Massey College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register to verify Massey College’s registration (CRICOS 03939B) and confirm the course code (115505H). Filter by course level, field, and city to ensure it meets your needs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to Massey College with required documents (academic transcripts, English test scores, passport copy). Check application deadlines and entry requirements on their website. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once Massey College issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare for the GTE interview. Good luck!
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Massey College 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.