Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118631M) is a Diploma delivered by Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring international students can study with confidence under the ESOS Act protections. The course is designed to prepare graduates for roles in early childhood education settings, including preschools, day care centres, and community-based programs. As a Diploma-level program (AQF Level 5), it builds on foundational knowledge to develop advanced skills in curriculum design, child development, and team leadership. Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies (CRICOS 03737A) is a private provider offering this course at two locations in Victoria: Geelong and Melbourne CBD. With a strong focus on practical experience, the course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks (280 hours), giving students real-world exposure. All data on HeadStart Academy is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), and we cover 26,433 courses across Australia to help you find the right fit.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 118631M) is a one-year program (52 weeks) delivered by Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03737A). This course falls under the field of Education (07) with a focus on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Students who complete this diploma will be equipped to work in early childhood education and care services, planning and implementing learning programs that support children's development. The program is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment, including tuition protection and student welfare requirements.
While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, at this level students typically learn about child development from birth to school age, creating inclusive learning environments, designing and assessing educational programs, managing teams, and maintaining compliance with national quality frameworks. The course emphasises both theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing graduates to take on supervisory or leadership roles in early childhood settings. Topics often include child health and safety, family and community partnerships, and ethical practice. For detailed unit outlines, contact Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies directly.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care runs for 1 year (52 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — there is no combined diploma or foundation component. Students are expected to attend classes at the specified delivery locations and complete the work-integrated learning component. Study mode is typically full-time, but confirm with the provider for specific timetabling.
Tuition fees for this course are A$14,500, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$1,500, bringing the total indicative cost to A$16,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Always check the provider’s website at www.nsmt.vic.edu.au for the most current fees. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge, which are not included in the above amounts. As a guide, living expenses in Victoria can range from A$1,500 to A$2,500 per month depending on location and lifestyle.
Entry requirements for this Diploma typically include an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent), and completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Applicants may also need to demonstrate relevant work experience or a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. For specific academic and English language requirements, refer to Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry — contact the provider for details. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa outcome.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 14 weeks of placement at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours. This industry placement gives students hands-on experience in real early childhood education settings, allowing them to apply classroom learning under supervision. Placements are typically arranged in preschools, long day care centres, or family day care services. The work component is integral to the qualification and helps build professional networks and practical skills valued by employers.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at two locations in Victoria: MCTS Geelong in Geelong, and NSMT CBD: Room 1 in Melbourne's central business district. Geelong is a regional city with a growing student population and lower living costs compared to Melbourne, while Melbourne offers a vibrant multicultural study environment. Both campuses are accessible by public transport. Victoria is home to many CRICOS-registered providers, offering a wide range of courses across all study levels.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. When applying for a visa, you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses by level, field, and location. Ensure the provider is listed on CRICOS. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution — Check entry requirements (including English test scores) and submit your application through the provider’s official website or admissions office. Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once accepted, you’ll receive a CoE, which is required for the visa application. Prepare your documents and apply to the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to apply? Start your journey by contacting Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies through their website or using HeadStart Academy to compare similar courses.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies 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.