Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118900F) is a Diploma delivered by QIHE PTY LTD over 1 year 3 months (~64 weeks). This nationally accredited qualification (CHC50125) prepares international students for a rewarding career in early childhood education and care. As an AQF Level 5 Diploma, it provides advanced skills in designing and implementing curriculum, managing teams, and ensuring regulatory compliance in early learning settings. Brisbane, Queensland's vibrant capital, offers a strong demand for early childhood professionals, with over 1,200 early childhood education services across the city. By choosing this CRICOS-registered course, you benefit from Australia's rigorous ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and student welfare. HeadStart Academy's data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), giving you accurate, up-to-date information to plan your study journey.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118900F) is a Diploma delivered by QIHE PTY LTD over 1 year 3 months (~64 weeks). This course is registered under the field of Education (07) with a focus on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It is a standalone qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. The course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks (20 hours per week, approximately 280 total hours) to provide hands-on industry experience. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03542A), QIHE PTY LTD is approved to enrol international students, and all courses meet Australian Government standards. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses across Australia, this diploma is part of a vast educational ecosystem designed to support international students.
This Diploma covers advanced topics in early childhood education, including designing and evaluating curriculum, fostering inclusive learning environments, leading and managing teams, and ensuring compliance with the National Quality Framework. Students develop skills in child development, family engagement, and administrative leadership. Graduates are prepared for roles such as centre director, educational leader, or family day care coordinator. The course content is aligned with Australian early childhood regulations and theories, providing a solid foundation for further study at bachelor level or direct entry into the workforce. Brisbane's growing population of young families means qualified early childhood educators are in high demand, making this diploma a strategic choice for international students planning to work in Australia post-study.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 1 year 3 months (~64 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the course is offered as a single qualification with no dual or foundation options. Students attend classes at the provider's Brisbane campuses. The duration includes both theoretical study and the work-integrated learning component. International students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment and meet attendance requirements. Brisbane's mild climate and vibrant student community make it an attractive study destination. The city is home to over 25 registered providers offering Diploma-level education courses, giving students multiple pathways to complete their qualifications.
Course fees for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at QIHE PTY LTD are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition is A$16,000, non-tuition fees are A$1,500, estimating a total of A$17,500. These fees are set by the institution and subject to change; always confirm directly with QIHE PTY LTD before applying. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For a single international student, the Department of Home Affairs recommends living costs of approximately A$21,041 per year (A$405 per week) for living expenses, plus OSHC (around A$600–$800 per year). Brisbane's cost of living is generally lower than Sydney and Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent of A$250–$400 for shared accommodation. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees; we are a free resource for students.
International students are typically expected to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall, with no band less than 5.0. Some providers may require a higher score. Prior academic qualifications generally include completion of a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or equivalent, or completion of Year 12 with relevant experience. QIHE PTY LTD may have specific prerequisite criteria; refer to their website for detailed entry requirements. If you do not meet the English or academic entry requirements, pathway options such as English language courses or foundation programs may be available. Always consult the provider directly. Note that meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa; visa applications are assessed by the Department of Home Affairs based on the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and other conditions.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours. This is an industry placement (also known as work-integrated learning or clinical placement) where students apply their theoretical knowledge in real early childhood education settings, such as childcare centres or kindergartens. Placements are supervised by qualified educators and provide invaluable hands-on experience. International students on a Student Visa can complete this placement as part of their course requirements. During term, student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight, and unlimited work during scheduled course breaks. The placement enhances employability and helps students build professional networks in Australia's early childhood sector.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at two campuses in Brisbane, Queensland: Level 5, 119 Charlotte St Brisbane QLD 4000 and Millenium Sq Level 6 119 Charlotte St Brisbane City QLD 4000. Both are located in the Brisbane CBD, close to public transport (train, bus, ferry) and student amenities. Brisbane is Queensland's capital with a population of over 2.5 million, including more than 80,000 international students from diverse backgrounds. The city offers a mild subtropical climate, vibrant cultural scene, and relatively affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationwide, choosing a location like Brisbane gives students access to a supportive multicultural environment and strong job opportunities in early childhood education.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time at a CRICOS-registered provider, work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. To obtain a visa, you need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from QIHE PTY LTD, demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intention, and show sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs provides detailed requirements on homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at QIHE PTY LTD: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Diploma), field (Education), and location (Brisbane). Verify the provider's CRICOS code (03542A) and check course details. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Visit QIHE PTY LTD's website (http://www.mastery.edu.au) to review exact entry requirements, English language requirements, and application deadlines. Submit your application and supporting documents directly. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, QIHE will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online, including OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. Check the Department of Home Affairs for current processing times.
Brisbane is a dynamic city known for its friendly atmosphere, outdoor lifestyle, and strong education sector. With over 25 CRICOS-registered providers offering Diploma-level education courses, students have ample choice. The cost of living is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly expenses include rent (A$200–$400 for shared accommodation), groceries (A$60–$100), and public transport (A$30–$50). Brisbane's public transport includes trains, buses, and ferries, with discounted travel for students (go card). The city hosts numerous international student services, cultural festivals, and networking events. Early childhood education professionals are in demand due to population growth and government investment in early learning. Consider Brisbane's climate — hot summers and mild winters — and its proximity to beaches and national parks when making your decision.
Ready to take the next step? Contact QIHE PTY LTD directly or explore more Diploma courses on HeadStart Academy.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at QIHE 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.