Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118643G) is a Diploma delivered by West Melbourne Institute of Technology Pty Ltd over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to become educators in early childhood settings, focusing on developing skills to support children's learning and development from birth to five years. Field of education is Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101), corresponding to AQF Level 5. With a mandatory work component of 20 weeks (14 hrs/week), students gain practical experience in real childcare environments. Melbourne, home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, offers a vibrant student community and excellent public transport access to both campuses. Indicative tuition fee is A$15,000 plus A$750 non-tuition fees, totalling A$15,750. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive quality education and consumer rights.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118643G) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by West Melbourne Institute of Technology Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03874C). The course is classified under Field of Education 070101 Teacher Education: Early Childhood. It prepares graduates to design, implement, and evaluate programs for children in early childhood settings. The course includes a work-integrated learning component of 20 weeks at 14 hours per week (approximately 280 total hours), allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical, supervised placements. This qualification is nationally recognised under the VET National Code CHC50125. Melbourne, Victoria, offers a robust early childhood education sector with numerous employment opportunities. The course is delivered over 60 weeks (1 year 2 months) with English as the language of instruction. No dual qualification or foundation studies are included.
This diploma covers key areas of early childhood education, including child development from birth to five years, designing and implementing curriculum, building relationships with families, and supporting children's wellbeing. Graduates typically gain skills in planning engaging learning experiences, observing and assessing children's progress, and working within legal and ethical frameworks. The course emphasises practical skills through work placements, preparing students for roles such as early childhood educator or center director. The content aligns with Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards. While specific syllabus details are provided by the institution, the overall focus is on nurturing children's cognitive, social, and emotional development in diverse educational settings.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students should expect a full-time study load, combined with the required work component. Melbourne campuses offer flexible scheduling, but students must commit to both classroom-based learning and off-site placements. The duration allows for comprehensive coverage of theoretical units and practical application. Always confirm the exact academic calendar with West Melbourne Institute of Technology Pty Ltd, as start dates and holidays may vary.
Tuition fees for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at West Melbourne Institute of Technology Pty Ltd are indicative at A$15,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$750, bringing the estimated total to A$15,750. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). International students should budget approximately A$21,041 per year for living costs in Melbourne (as per Department of Home Affairs). Always check the provider's website (www.wmit.edu.au) for the most current fee schedule. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees; all fee information is provided as a free resource.
Entry requirements for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care typically include an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent) and successful completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Prior qualifications in a related field may be recognised. Students without the required English level may consider pathway programs offered by the institution. Foundation studies are not included in this course; however, West Melbourne Institute of Technology may offer alternative entry pathways. Due to the work component, students may also need to meet specific workplace requirements (e.g., Working with Children Check). Always confirm exact entry requirements directly with the provider, as they set their own criteria. For visa purposes, applicants must meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements and demonstrate financial capacity.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks at 14 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours of work-integrated learning. This industry placement provides students with hands-on experience in early childhood education settings such as childcare centrers, kindergartens, or preschools. Under supervision, students apply classroom learning to real-world scenarios, developing skills in program planning, child supervision, and family engagement. The work component is integral to achieving competency in national standards. Students should be prepared to organise their own transport to placement sites, which may be located across Melbourne. This practical experience enhances employability and is often a requirement for graduation. Check with West Melbourne Institute of Technology for specific placement procedures and support.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria: Level 3, 220 Albert Road, South Melbourne VIC 3205 and the Melbourne Campus (full address to be confirmed by the provider). Both campuses are in South Melbourne and Melbourne CBD areas, well-serviced by public transport (trams, trains, and buses). Melbourne has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, serving a large international student population (over 150,000). Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$450–550 per week for rent, A$150–200 for groceries, and A$40–50 for public transport. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene and strong early childhood education job market. Students can choose the campus that best suits their location and schedule.
International students studying the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study up to 5 years (proportional to course duration) and work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term time (unlimited during scheduled breaks). Visa conditions include maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay, meeting Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, and demonstrating sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. The cost of living for a single student in Melbourne is approximately A$21,041 per year. OSHC costs around A$600–700 per year for single cover. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring quality standards and student rights. For visa application assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au). HeadStart Academy provides guidance only; it is not a migration agent.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 150,000 international students, offering a multicultural environment and excellent educational resources. The city has a strong demand for early childhood educators, with many childcare centrers and kindergartens. Public transport is extensive, with both campuses accessible via tram, train, or bus. Living costs are higher than in regional areas but lower than Sydney. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals. If you prefer a compact campus with easy city access, the Melbourne Campus is ideal. For a quieter suburban setting, South Melbourne offers a mix of residential and commercial areas. Both locations provide access to a wide network of CRICOS-registered providers and student support services. HeadStart Academy offers free resources to help you explore study destinations across Australia.
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers. Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by Diploma level, Early Childhood Education field, and location (Melbourne, VIC). Confirm that West Melbourne Institute of Technology Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03874C) is properly registered for CRICOS 118643G. Step 2: Apply directly to West Melbourne Institute of Technology Pty Ltd. Visit their website (www.wmit.edu.au) to check entry requirements, English language tests, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and a personal statement. Submit your application online or by post. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once the provider issues the CoE, you can lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, financial evidence, and meet GTE requirements. HeadStart Academy provides step-by-step guidance but does not process applications.
Explore more Diploma courses in Early Childhood Education in Victoria on HeadStart Academy, or get personalised guidance by contacting our team (free resource, no referral fees).
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at West Melbourne Institute of Technology 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.