Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education (CRICOS course code 116494J) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification prepares international students for professional roles in early childhood education, combining theory with 12 weeks of hands-on industry placement. Delivered across four Australian campuses—Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, and Sydney—this course offers flexibility while meeting the high standards of the Australian education system. With indicative tuition fees of A$25,200 and non-tuition costs of A$5,200, the total estimated cost is A$30,400. All listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and ESOS Act protections. Start your journey into early childhood education today.
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Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education (CRICOS course code 116494J) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) in the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (field code 070101). It is delivered by Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS provider code 00197D), a private institution with campuses in Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, and Sydney. The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification—not part of a dual award or foundation studies program. A distinctive feature is the mandatory work component: 12 weeks at 37.5 hours per week, totalling approximately 450 hours of industry placement, giving students practical experience in early childhood settings. This course is designed for those who already hold a bachelor's degree and wish to specialise in early childhood education. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
As a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education, this program focuses on the principles and practices of educating children from birth to eight years. Students explore child development, curriculum design, inclusive practices, family engagement, and ethical leadership in early childhood contexts. Learning outcomes align with the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (Graduate level) and the Early Years Learning Framework. Graduates gain the knowledge to create safe, nurturing environments that foster children's cognitive, social, and emotional growth. While specific units are set by Acknowledge Education, typical graduate diploma courses in this field cover pedagogical leadership, assessment and planning, and advocacy for children and families. This level of study is ideal for those aiming to work in preschools, long day care centres, or early intervention programs.
This course is a 1-year full-time program (52 weeks as registered on CRICOS). Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification—not combined with other courses. There is no VET national code as it is a higher education graduate diploma. Students are expected to attend classes at one of the four delivery locations and complete the supervised work component. The course is designed for international students holding a valid Student visa (Subclass 500). As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the duration is fixed to ensure compliance with visa conditions. Full-time study load is typically 12.5 hours per week of structured learning, plus independent study and placement hours.
Tuition fee: A$25,200 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees (including enrolment, materials, and resources): A$5,200. Estimated total course cost: A$30,400. These fees are set by Acknowledge Education Pty Ltd and are subject to change. Tuition does NOT include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, food, transport), or the student visa application charge. For current fees, including any scholarships or payment plans, always check the provider's official website. HeadStart Academy displays indicative data only—we recommend confirming costs directly with the institution before applying.
International students typically need an IELTS score between 5.5 and 6.0 overall (or equivalent English proficiency test). As a graduate diploma, applicants are usually expected to hold a bachelor's degree in any discipline—some providers may require relevant prior study or work experience in education. Acknowledge Education may also consider equivalent qualifications. Foundation studies or pathway programs are not applicable at this level; however, students who do not meet English requirements can take ELICOS courses before starting. Always confirm exact entry requirements with the provider, as they can change. English language requirements are separate from the GTE criterion for the student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 12 weeks of industry placement at 37.5 hours per week (approximately 450 total hours). This is a work-integrated learning (WIL) experience, likely in early childhood education settings such as preschools, childcare centres, or kindergartens under supervision. The placement gives students real-life classroom experience, helping them apply theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills. It also satisfies professional experience requirements for teacher registration in Australia. Students are responsible for arranging their own placement with provider support. The placement is an integral part of the course and must be completed to graduate.
This course is delivered at four Acknowledge Education campuses: 166-172 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC (in the central business district, close to public transport and student hubs); 647 Wellington St, Perth WA (in West Perth, near the city centre); 225 St Pauls Terrace, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 (Brisbane campus—easy access via train and bus); and Oxford Street, Surry Hills NSW (Sydney campus, a vibrant inner-city suburb). Each campus offers access to Australia's rich multicultural environment and high-quality student services. Melbourne has over 70 CRICOS-registered providers, Perth over 30, and Sydney/Brisbane each over 100—giving students plenty of options. Living costs vary: Melbourne and Sydney average A$450–550/week for rent, Perth A$350–450, Brisbane A$350–400. Transportation is student-friendly with discounts. All campuses are in cities with large international student communities.
To study this course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks; maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration; satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement; and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. The course length (1 year) means a visa for that duration plus additional time for OSHC. ESOS Act protections apply—ensuring tuition fee protection and quality standards. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for current visa requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for assistance.
Applying for the Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education at Acknowledge Education is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses, check entry requirements, and explore locations. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application, including academic transcripts, English test results, and any other required documents. Meet application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa via ImmiAccount. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare for the GTE interview.
Ready to take the next step? Explore your options on HeadStart Academy and apply directly to Acknowledge Education for the Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education.
Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education is a CRICOS-registered programme at Acknowledge 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.