Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118571G) is a Diploma delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 1 year. This qualification prepares students to work in early childhood education settings, including long day care and preschools. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00111D), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. Melbourne, home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,000+ courses, is a top destination for education. This page provides accurate, up-to-date information sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026) to help you make an informed decision.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 118571G) is an AQF Level 5 qualification in the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (07-0701-070101). Offered by Swinburne University of Technology, a government university with CRICOS 00111D, this course equips graduates with the skills to design and implement learning programs for children from birth to five years. The program covers child development, inclusive practices, and regulatory frameworks. Graduates may pursue roles as early childhood educators or pathway to a Bachelor of Education. All data on HeadStart Academy comes directly from the official CRICOS register, ensuring accuracy.
This full-time course runs for 52 weeks (1 year) as registered on CRICOS. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not part of a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. At this level, students typically attend on-campus classes at Swinburne's Hawthorn Campus. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The course structure includes both theoretical and practical components, as required for early childhood educator certification.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$20,760 for the full program, with no non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, giving an estimated total of A$20,760. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (around A$500–600 per week in Melbourne for rent, groceries, and transport), and the visa application charge are not included. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Always confirm with Swinburne University of Technology directly via their website (swinburne.edu.au/international). As a CRICOS-registered provider, Swinburne complies with ESOS Act protections.
For this diploma, international students generally need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) and completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Prior qualifications in early childhood education may be considered. Foundation or pathway options are available — refer to the provider for details. Entry requirements are set by Swinburne and may change. We recommend consulting the provider's website for the most current requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; for visa eligibility, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 29 weeks of industry placement (approximately 18 hours per week, totalling around 546 hours). Students will gain practical experience in early childhood settings such as long day care centres, kindergartens, or preschools under supervision. This placement is a core part of the qualification and must be completed to graduate. It provides invaluable real-world exposure to Australian childcare regulations and practices. All placements are arranged in compliance with ESOS requirements for student work and safety.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at Swinburne's Hawthorn Campus, located at John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria 3122. Hawthorn is a well-connected inner-city suburb of Melbourne, with easy tram and train access to the CBD. Melbourne has a large international student community (over 250,000) and numerous living options. The campus is near shops, cafes, and student accommodation. Being in Victoria's education hub, students benefit from proximity to other institutions and cultural activities. Check provider for specific classroom locations.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course on campus. Visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment, attendance, and academic progress; holding OSHC; and not working more than 48 hours per fortnight during term (unlimited during scheduled breaks). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies — you must demonstrate genuine intention to stay temporarily. Financial capacity evidence (tuition, living costs, OSHC) is required. ESOS Act protections safeguard your tuition fees. For visa applications, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a MARA agent.
Melbourne is a vibrant, multicultural city with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers. The cost of living for a single student is approximately A$500–600 per week (rent A$250–400, groceries A$80–120, transport A$40–50). Public transport is extensive, with trams and trains connecting suburbs. The city offers diverse cultural events, food, and outdoor activities. Studying at Swinburne's Hawthorn Campus places you near the city centre. However, consider your personal preferences for climate, lifestyle, and budget. HeadStart Academy provides data but not personal advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. 2. Apply directly to Swinburne University of Technology — meet entry requirements, submit English test scores, and adhere to application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees.
Ready to take the next step? Use HeadStart Academy to find more diploma courses in early childhood education, or apply directly to Swinburne University of Technology.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. 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.