Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118572F) is a Diploma delivered by Victoria University over 43 weeks (~10 months). This AQF Level 5 qualification (field of education 070101 – Teacher Education: Early Childhood) prepares graduates to design and implement educational programs for children from birth to age five. Victoria University (CRICOS 00124K) is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation in vocational training. The course includes a mandatory work placement of 10 weeks (~300 hours), giving you hands-on experience in licensed early childhood settings. Delivered at the Footscray Nicholson campus in Footscray, Victoria, this program is ideal for international students seeking a career in early childhood education in Australia. All fees shown are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118572F) is a Diploma delivered by Victoria University over 43 weeks (~10 months). Registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), this course meets national quality standards for international education. Victoria University (provider number 00124K) is a public university with multiple campuses across Melbourne. The course is classified under field 070101 – Teacher Education: Early Childhood, which focuses on developing skills to foster children's learning and development. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring tuition assurance and student rights. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this diploma stands out as a pathway to a rewarding career.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care covers the knowledge and skills required to work in early childhood settings. Graduates typically learn to plan and implement play-based learning activities, support children's social and emotional development, and work collaboratively with families and communities. The curriculum addresses safety, nutrition, and regulatory compliance within Australian early childhood frameworks. While specific unit details are set by Victoria University, the course generally includes topics such as child development, program design, and inclusive practices. This diploma aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 5, preparing students for roles such as early childhood educator or centre director. Field of education 070101 ensures a focus on teacher education for early childhood, distinct from primary or secondary teaching.
The course duration is 43 weeks (~10 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students attend classes at Victoria University's Footscray Nicholson campus in Footscray, Victoria. The standard study mode is face-to-face, with possible online components depending on provider delivery. This single qualification program is designed for full-time study, meeting the requirements for a student visa (Subclass 500). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions.
Indicative fees for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Victoria University are as follows, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition: A$18,170. Non-tuition fees: A$345. Estimated total: A$18,515. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international student visa holders and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year. Living costs in Melbourne (Victoria) are estimated at A$1,500–A$2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Victoria University at www.vu.edu.au, as fees are subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides indicative data only; we do not set fees or guarantee amounts.
General entry requirements for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care include an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent English language test). Applicants are expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent qualifications. Some providers may require a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or relevant work experience. Victoria University may offer pathway or foundation programs for students who do not meet direct entry requirements; check with the provider for options. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are limited. All international applicants must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for their student visa. For precise entry criteria, visit Victoria University's website.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 10 weeks of industry placement, totalling approximately 300 hours. During this placement, you will work in a licensed early childhood education and care setting, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world practice. Tasks may include supervising children, planning activities, and maintaining records. This experience is designed to meet the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards. Work placements are arranged by Victoria University, but you may need to meet additional requirements such as a Working with Children Check. International students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, but placement hours are part of the course, not paid employment.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at Victoria University Footscray Nicholson campus, located in FOOTSCRAY, VIC. Footscray is an inner-western suburb of Melbourne, approximately 6 km from the CBD. The campus is accessible by train (Footscray station) and multiple bus routes. Melbourne is home to over 180,000 international students and has a high concentration of registered providers. Living costs in Melbourne are higher than the national average; weekly rent for a shared apartment averages A$200–A$350, with groceries around A$80–A$120 and public transport A$40–A$60. Victoria’s early childhood sector is growing, with strong demand for qualified educators.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study, work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, and the ability to bring eligible family members. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Victoria University, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). OSHC must be purchased for the duration of your visa. The Department of Home Affairs assesses each application individually. HeadStart Academy does not provide visa advice; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) for guidance. ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition fees are safeguarded.
Applying for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Victoria University involves three simple steps. Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm Victoria University is registered (CRICOS 00124K). Step 2: Apply directly to Victoria University – submit your application with academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.5-6.0), and any other required documents. Deadlines vary, so check the provider's website. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once you have a CoE, lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, include OSHC and evidence of funds. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees.
Victoria offers a vibrant multicultural environment with high demand for early childhood educators. The state has over 650 CRICOS-registered providers, many offering similar diplomas. Consider the cost of living in Melbourne versus regional areas; rent in Footscray is moderate but can be higher near campuses. Public transport is extensive, but commuting times vary. The early childhood sector in Victoria is regulated by ACECQA, and graduates must meet specific requirements to work in the field. Job prospects are strong, with many centres seeking qualified staff. However, visa conditions limit work hours during term, so budget carefully. Always verify course accreditation and provider registration via cricos.teqsa.gov.au. This diploma is a step toward potential permanent residency pathways, but immigration outcomes depend on individual circumstances.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Visit Victoria University's website to confirm current fees, check entry requirements, and submit your application. Use HeadStart Academy's free tools to compare courses and providers.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Victoria 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.