Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118588J) is a Diploma delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~57 weeks). This qualification equips you with the skills and knowledge to design and implement early childhood education programs for children from birth to five years. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 02934D), it meets rigorous Australian quality standards. You'll study practical topics like child development, curriculum planning, family engagement, and regulatory compliance. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and this Diploma is a popular pathway to a rewarding career in early childhood education. Southern Cross Education Institute delivers this course across three campuses in Adelaide and Melbourne, giving you flexibility in location. Whether you're looking to migrate permanently or gain global skills, this qualification is recognised worldwide.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 118588J) is an AQF Level 5 qualification in the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (07-0701-070101). It is designed for individuals who want to work as lead educators or centre directors in child care centres, preschools, and other early learning settings. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical work-integrated learning, including a mandatory 9-week industry placement (288 hours). All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government, and data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02934D) is a private provider with a strong reputation in vocational education.
While specific syllabi may vary, this field of education typically covers child development theories, creative learning environments, health and safety regulations, curriculum planning, inclusive practices, and family partnerships. Graduates learn to design and implement educational programs tailored to children's individual needs, assess developmental milestones, and manage a classroom setting. The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) at Diploma level requires you to demonstrate initiative, judgement, and responsibility in a professional context. This course also addresses cross-cultural competence, which is essential in Australia's multicultural society.
The course runs for 1 year 1 month (~57 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The full-time study load typically involves classroom-based learning and scheduled industry placement. The provider may offer different delivery modes; check with Southern Cross Education Institute for full details.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Southern Cross Education Institute is A$14,000. Non-tuition fees (enrolment, materials, etc.) add approximately A$850. The estimated total cost is A$14,850. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the institution. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm directly with Southern Cross Education Institute (www.scei.com.au). Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (currently around A$21,041 per year for a single student per Department of Home Affairs), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600 as of October 2024) are NOT included in the total.
General guidance for this level typically expects IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). You should have completed an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent. Prior study in early childhood education may be advantageous. For specific entry criteria, including any foundation or pathway options, refer to Southern Cross Education Institute's website. Meeting English requirements is essential for visa eligibility under the Student Visa (Subclass 500).
This course includes a mandatory work component: 9 weeks at 32 hours per week, totalling approximately 288 hours. This is a work-integrated learning placement, often called an industry placement or internship, in a registered early childhood education setting. You will gain hands-on experience under supervision, applying classroom theory to real interactions with children, families, and professional teams. Such placements are key to meeting the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards.
Southern Cross Education Institute delivers this course at three campuses: 14-16 Grote Street, Adelaide SA; 41 Boundary Road, North Melbourne VIC; 52-56 Chetwynd St, West Melbourne VIC. Adelaide is South Australia's capital, a vibrant student city with over 40,000 international students from 130 countries. Melbourne is Australia's largest student hub, home to over 200,000 international students. Both cities offer excellent public transport, and the campus locations are well connected. Living costs vary: Adelaide weekly rent averages A$350–A$450, Melbourne A$400–A$550. All campuses comply with CRICOS registration standards.
International students must hold a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Visa requirements include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), sufficient English proficiency (usually the same as course entry), and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria. You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act ensures your rights as a consumer. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Choosing between Adelaide and Melbourne depends on your preferences. Adelaide offers a more affordable cost of living and a close-knit student community, with a thriving early childhood education sector due to growing population. Melbourne is a global cultural capital with extensive job opportunities, networking events, and a diverse early childhood industry. Both cities have numerous CRICOS-registered providers (Adelaide has around 200, Melbourne over 600). Consider transport, climate, and lifestyle. Regardless of location, studying at a CRICOS-registered provider like Southern Cross Education Institute ensures quality and legal protection.
Follow these three steps to commence your studies: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (Teacher Education: Early Childhood), and city (Adelaide or Melbourne) to shortlist providers. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd requires you to submit an application with supporting documents (academic transcripts, English test scores, passport copy). Check the provider's website for deadlines and specific requirements. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once accepted, the institution will issue a CoE. With the CoE, you can apply for the visa online via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. HeadStart Academy is a free resource – we do not charge fees for course information.
Ready to begin your early childhood education career? Explore the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 118588J) on HeadStart Academy. Compare providers, check CRICOS registration, and start your application journey today.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross Education Institute 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.