Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118600G) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification (AQF Level 5) prepares you to work as an early childhood educator or centre director in Australia. The course includes 300 hours of work-integrated learning across 60 weeks, giving you hands-on experience in real childcare settings. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider 03222F), it meets Australian standards for international students. HeadStart Academy is your free resource hub for verified course data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118600G) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification belongs to the field of Education (07) with a focus on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Graduates typically gain skills to design and implement curriculum, manage teams, and ensure compliance with national quality frameworks. The program is registered under VET national code CHC50125 and is taught entirely in English. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is open to international student visa holders and covered by the ESOS Act protections.
This Diploma covers the theory and practice of early childhood education, including child development, program planning, family engagement, and leadership. Students learn to create inclusive learning environments, assess children's needs, and mentor other educators. The curriculum aligns with Australian industry standards, preparing graduates for roles such as early childhood educator, team leader, or centre director. While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, the general focus is on developing advanced skills in pedagogy, regulatory compliance, and reflective practice – all within the context of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and National Quality Standards.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care runs for 78 weeks (1 year 6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students attend classes at one of three NSW campuses: Blacktown (Western Sydney), Lithgow (Central West), or Surry Hills (inner Sydney). The mode of delivery includes face-to-face lectures, tutorials, and supervised work placements. International students should note that the 78-week duration meets the requirements for a Subclass 500 student visa.
Tuition for this course is A$12,000 (indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees (e.g., enrolment, materials) are A$1,500, making the estimated total A$13,500. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are NOT included in these figures. For current fees, always check the provider's website at http://www.ahsi.edu.au. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. As a free resource, HeadStart Academy does not charge fees or receive commissions – we simply point you to the official data.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) for entry. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Australian Year 12 (or overseas equivalent) and often the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (or relevant experience). The provider may offer pathway options – contact Australian Health and Science Institute directly for specific prerequisites. All entry requirements are set by the institution; HeadStart Academy recommends reviewing the provider's admission policy and consulting a registered migration agent for visa-related questions.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 60 weeks, 5 hours per week, totalling approximately 300 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) is an industry placement (also known as vocational placement) in an approved early childhood education setting. Students gain supervised hands-on experience with children under qualified mentors. Placements are arranged by the provider in locations near the campus. The work component is integral to meeting the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) requirements and is covered by the provider's insurance. It also provides valuable industry connections and references.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is offered at three Australian Health and Science Institute campuses in New South Wales: Blacktown (in Western Sydney, a growing multicultural hub with good public transport links to Parramatta and the city), Lithgow (a regional city in the Central Tablelands, about 2.5 hours west of Sydney, known for its affordable cost of living), and Surry Hills (inner-city Sydney, near public transport and the CBD). Students can choose a location that suits their lifestyle and budget. Each campus has its own student community and local amenities. When choosing a location, consider the cost of living: weekly rent ranges from A$250–400 in Lithgow to A$300–600 in Sydney, and transport costs vary. Over 1,500 CRICOS providers across Australia offer similar courses, but this program is unique to AHSI.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study in a CRICOS-registered course, with work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the full duration, and proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$29,710 per year from 2024–2025), and travel. The course's 78-week duration qualifies for a visa typically granted for the course length plus 1–2 months. Note that HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for personalised advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to enrol in the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's course search to compare this program with similar courses across NSW. Filter by field (Education), level (Diploma), and location to find options that suit your goals. All listed providers are verified on the CRICOS register. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application to Australian Health and Science Institute Pty Ltd via their website (http://www.ahsi.edu.au). Ensure you meet entry requirements, including English proficiency and prior qualifications. The provider will review your documents and issue a Letter of Offer if successful. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once you accept the offer and pay the required deposit, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare your GTE statement.
New South Wales is Australia's most populous state, home to Sydney (the largest city) and a network of regional centres. The state has over 500 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses – the highest concentration in Australia. Living costs vary widely: Sydney is expensive (rent A$300–600/week), while regional cities like Lithgow offer lower costs (rent A$200–350/week). Public transport is extensive in Sydney, but regional campuses may require a car. This Diploma is available in both metro and regional settings, giving you flexibility. Consider your budget, career goals, and preferred lifestyle when choosing a campus. HeadStart Academy provides detailed guides on studying in NSW to help you decide.
Early Childhood Education is a rewarding field in high demand across Australia, with strong job prospects (projected growth of 16% over the next 5 years in NSW). However, entry to the profession requires completion of an Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA)-approved qualification. This Diploma meets that requirement. Consider the work component: 300 hours of placement is a significant commitment. Also, check if your home country's qualifications will be recognised upon return. For international students, studying in Australia offers the benefit of ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee refund if the provider fails to deliver. Always verify CRICOS registration (like this course's 118600G) before enrolling.
Ready to take the next step? Explore your options for studying early childhood education in Australia with HeadStart Academy's free course search tool.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Health and Science 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.