Are you an international student looking to build a rewarding career in early childhood education in Australia? The Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education (CRICOS course code 117116E) is a one-year graduate diploma delivered by Griffith University at its Brisbane South campuses. This course is ideal for graduates who want to gain specialised skills in early childhood teaching and qualify for roles in preschools, kindergartens, and early learning centres. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00233E), it meets the highest Australian standards for international students. Griffith University is a government-owned university with a strong reputation in education and teaching. The course combines theoretical knowledge with a substantial work component, including 480 hours of professional placement. With an indicative total fee of A$37,499 (tuition A$36,500 plus non-tuition fees A$999), this program offers excellent value. You will study at either the Mt Gravatt or Nathan campus, both located in Brisbane, Queensland – a vibrant city with a large international student community. HeadStart Academy brings you this information directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Remember, only CRICOS-registered providers can enrol international students, and all listed institutions here are fully registered. Start your journey towards becoming an early childhood educator today.
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The Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education (CRICOS course code 117116E) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) delivered by Griffith University over 1 year (52 weeks). It falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (field code 070101). This course is designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree and wish to specialise in early childhood teaching. Graduates typically gain the knowledge and skills to work with children from birth to eight years, focusing on developmentally appropriate practices, curriculum design, and inclusive education. The program is taught in English and is a single qualification (not a dual degree). It is a non-VET course, so no VET national code applies. All information is sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Griffith University is a well-established government university, and this course is offered at two campuses in Brisbane's south. The course includes a mandatory work component (see below). As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
The Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education is set at AQF Level 8, meaning it builds on undergraduate knowledge and provides advanced theoretical and practical understanding. While specific subjects are set by Griffith University, students in this field typically explore child development theories, early childhood pedagogy, curriculum planning, assessment strategies, family and community engagement, and inclusive practices. The course emphasises play-based learning and evidence-based teaching methods. Graduates develop critical thinking and reflective practice skills essential for early childhood settings. The program likely covers key areas such as language and literacy development, numeracy foundations, creative arts, and health and wellbeing. A significant portion of learning occurs through the 480-hour work component, where students apply theory in real early childhood environments. For exact subject details, refer to Griffith University's official course page. HeadStart Academy provides this general guidance to help you understand the field; it is not a substitute for the provider's syllabus.
According to the CRICOS register, the Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual or combined award) and it is not a foundation studies course. The program is a full-time, on-campus course delivered at Griffith University's Brisbane South campuses (Mt Gravatt and Nathan). There is no online or part-time option listed on CRICOS for this course. As with most graduate diplomas, the structure is typically consecutive semesters. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. For exact study load and semester dates, contact Griffith University directly. This information is sourced from the official CRICOS registry as at 1 April 2026.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$36,500 per year. Additional non-tuition fees amount to A$999, giving an estimated total of A$37,499. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are set by Griffith University. Please note: fees are indicative only and subject to change. Always confirm current fees on Griffith University's website (www.griffith.edu.au) before applying. The following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international student visa holders – you can learn more on our OSHC health cover page. Living costs in Brisbane are estimated at around A$1,500–A$2,200 per month for a single student, including rent, groceries, and transport. For a detailed breakdown, visit our Brisbane student living guide. Remember, you must demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC when applying for a Student visa.
Entry requirements for the Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education are set by Griffith University. Typically, applicants need a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in any discipline. An English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) is generally expected, but Griffith may require higher for teacher registration purposes. Always check the provider's specific requirements. No foundation studies are listed for this course on CRICOS, but Griffith may offer pathway programs – refer to their website. International students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and have sufficient financial capacity. HeadStart Academy does not set entry requirements; we recommend contacting Griffith University directly or consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice. This course is non-VET and not a pathway to teacher registration – you may need additional qualifications to register as a teacher in Australia. For the most accurate information, visit Griffith University's entry requirements page.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 480 hours. This is a professional placement (also known as work-integrated learning or industry internship) where students gain hands-on experience in early childhood education settings. Placements typically occur in preschools, kindergartens, or long day care centres, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge under supervision. The specific placement structure is determined by Griffith University. This component is integral to meeting the Australian professional standards for early childhood teachers. International students should note that placements are considered part of the course, and work rights under the Student visa (48 hours per fortnight during term) do not apply to compulsory placements if they are part of the course. However, you should confirm visa conditions with the Department of Home Affairs. This work component enhances employability and provides real-world experience in Australian early childhood contexts.
The Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education is delivered at two campuses in Brisbane's south: Brisbane South (Mt Gravatt) – MT GRAVATT, QLD, and Brisbane South (Nathan) – NATHAN, QLD. Both campuses are part of Griffith University's extensive network. Mt Gravatt is a suburb about 12 km from Brisbane's city centre, while Nathan is slightly closer (about 10 km). Both are well-served by public transport – buses connect to the city and other suburbs. Brisbane is Queensland's capital, with a population of over 2.5 million and a large international student community (over 50,000). The city has a subtropical climate, with warm winters and hot summers. Living costs in Brisbane are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$350–A$450. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. For more on studying in Queensland, see our Queensland state page. Griffith University has over 50,000 students across multiple campuses, and these two campuses offer modern facilities and a supportive learning environment.
International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Griffith University, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meet health and character requirements. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory for the duration of your visa – see our OSHC page for details. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. However, this work component is part of the course and does not count towards work limits. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for the latest conditions. Remember, completing a CRICOS-registered course like this one strengthens your visa application because it demonstrates genuine study intent. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Brisbane offers a unique study experience for international students. With a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne, a sunny climate, and a growing job market, it's an attractive option for studying early childhood education. The city has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering education courses, giving you plenty of choice. Public transport to Griffith's Mt Gravatt and Nathan campuses is convenient via bus. The city also has a strong sense of community and numerous cultural attractions. However, consider that Brisbane's public transport may be less extensive than larger cities, and some students may prefer the hustle of Sydney. Think about your lifestyle preferences, proximity to beaches (Gold Coast is 1 hour away), and the specific specialisations offered by Griffith University. This course's work component may also open doors to employment in Brisbane's growing early childhood sector. For a deeper dive, see our Brisbane study guide.
Applying for the Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education at Griffith University is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Education), and city (Brisbane). Ensure the provider (Griffith University) is CRICOS-registered (code 00233E) and the course (117116E) meets your goals.
2. **Apply directly to Griffith University**: Visit www.griffith.edu.au to review entry requirements, English language tests, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Submit your application online through Griffith's international application portal.
3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa**: Once Griffith issues your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet the GTE criterion. For visa help, consult a registered migration agent.
Remember: apply well in advance – courses can fill quickly, and visa processing times vary.
Ready to take the next step? Browse more Graduate Diploma courses in Education on HeadStart Academy, or start your application to Griffith University today. Remember, all data comes from the official CRICOS register – your trusted source for studying in Australia.
Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education is a CRICOS-registered programme at Griffith University. 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.