Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching (CRICOS course code 117519H) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Edith Cowan University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification focuses on teacher education in early childhood, preparing graduates to work with children from birth to eight years in diverse educational settings. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider number 00279B), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Located at ECU's Joondalup Campus in Western Australia, the program includes a mandatory work component of 480 hours, blending theory with practical placement. With an indicative tuition fee of A$37,700, this course is a competitive option for those seeking a career in early childhood education in Australia. HeadStart Academy, as a free resource, provides trusted data sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026). All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you study with confidence under the ESOS Act protections.
Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching (CRICOS course code 117519H) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Edith Cowan University (CRICOS 00279B) over 1 year (52 weeks). This program sits at AQF Level 8 and falls under the field of education (code 070101), focusing on early childhood teacher education. The course is designed for international students who hold a prior degree and wish to gain specialised knowledge in early childhood pedagogy, curriculum design, and child development. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, students complete 12 weeks of work-integrated learning (480 hours) in early childhood settings. The language of instruction is English, and no dual qualification or foundation studies are offered. Edith Cowan University is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation in teacher education, and the course is delivered at its Joondalup Campus in Perth, Western Australia.
The Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching covers core areas of early childhood education, including child development theories, play-based learning, inclusive practices, and family engagement. Students explore curriculum frameworks such as the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and learn to design age-appropriate learning experiences. The program also addresses assessment, observation, and documentation techniques, as well as ethical and professional standards in early childhood teaching. While specific units are set by the university, graduates typically emerge with the skills to work as early childhood teachers in preschools, kindergartens, and early learning centres. This qualification aligns with Australian professional standards for teachers and may lead to registration with state teaching bodies.
The Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching is a 1-year full-time program (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). Instruction is delivered in English on campus at ECU Joondalup. It is a single qualification (no dual awards) and does not include foundation studies. The course may be offered in a standard semester structure, with classes typically running from February to November. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to meet student visa conditions. The program is not available via online delivery for CRICOS purposes; all study is face-to-face at the Joondalup campus.
Tuition fees for the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The tuition fee is A$37,700 for the full program, with no additional non-tuition fees listed (A$0). The estimated total cost is A$37,700. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included and are additional costs you must budget for. Living costs in Perth are estimated at around A$1,200–A$1,500 per month (including rent, groceries, and transport). Always confirm the latest fees directly with Edith Cowan University at www.ecu.edu.au, as fees are set by the institution and subject to change.
Entry to the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching typically requires a bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognised institution. English language proficiency is essential; the indicative requirement is IELTS overall band 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). Some applicants may need to meet additional prerequisites related to early childhood education or provide a personal statement. If you do not meet the exact requirements, pathway options such as a Graduate Certificate in Early Childhood Education may be available from the same provider. Always check the specific entry criteria on Edith Cowan University's website, as requirements can change.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 480 hours. This is a form of work-integrated learning (WIL), typically an industry placement or internship in an early childhood education setting. Students gain hands-on experience working with children under supervision, applying theoretical knowledge in real classrooms. Placements are arranged by the university in partnership with local early childhood centres in the Perth metropolitan area. This component is a critical part of teacher training and may count towards professional registration requirements. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for the work placement; typically, placements are considered part of the course and do not separately count towards the 48-hour fortnightly work limit.
The Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching is delivered at ECU's Joondalup Campus, located in the northern suburbs of Perth, Western Australia. Joondalup is a major regional centre with a growing population of over 90,000. The campus is well-served by public transport, including the Joondalup railway line and bus routes, making it accessible from Perth city and surrounding areas. Perth itself has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses, but only a select few focus on early childhood teaching at the graduate level. Living in Joondalup offers a suburban lifestyle with proximity to beaches and parks, and the cost of living is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time, and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study. You will also need to maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Financial capacity requirements include evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year), and OSHC. The Department of Home Affairs sets these requirements; always check the latest on homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. Consult a MARA-registered agent for visa applications.
Applying for the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching at Edith Cowan University is a straightforward three-step process:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's free resource to explore CRICOS courses in early childhood education. Filter by course level, field, and city to find your best options. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit Edith Cowan University's website (www.ecu.edu.au) to review detailed entry requirements, English language tests accepted (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and application deadlines. Submit your application online with supporting documents. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once ECU issues your CoE, you can proceed to lodge a student visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC arranged and meet GTE and financial requirements.
Western Australia, and particularly Perth, offers a unique study experience for international students. With a Mediterranean climate, world-class beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle, it's a popular destination. The state has a strong economy driven by mining, services, and education. Perth's student population is diverse, with over 50,000 international students from more than 100 countries. The cost of living in Perth is moderate; indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$200–$350, groceries A$80–$120, and public transport A$30–$50. Joondalup, as a northern suburb, provides a quieter environment compared to the CBD, with good access to shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. When choosing a study destination, consider your personal preferences for city life vs. suburban calm, as well as proximity to your campus.
Ready to take the next step? Explore all CRICOS-registered early childhood teaching courses on HeadStart Academy and find your perfect program.
Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edith Cowan 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.