Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118917H) is a Diploma delivered by Alma Mater College Australia Pty Ltd over 2 years. This nationally recognised qualification (AQF Level 5) prepares you to work as an early childhood educator in a range of settings. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) – a guarantee that it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Alma Mater College Australia (CRICOS 04058E) is a private provider based in Melbourne. As a HeadStart Academy resource, we source all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. This course includes a substantial work-integrated learning component and is ideal for those seeking a career in early childhood education. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and recommends consulting a MARA agent for visa advice.
This Diploma falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Graduates typically learn to design and implement educational programs for children from birth to 5 years, manage early childhood services, and support children's development and learning. The curriculum covers child development, programming and planning, safety, and inclusive practices. While specific syllabus details are set by Alma Mater College, you can expect a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills aligned with the National Quality Framework. This qualification reflects the role of educators who are responsible for the supervision and management of teams or volunteers in early childhood settings.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no foundation studies or dual qualification. Study mode may include face-to-face classes at the Melbourne campus, with potential online components depending on provider arrangements.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$24,000, with non-tuition fees of A$790, giving an estimated total of A$24,790. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always confirm directly with Alma Mater College Australia Pty Ltd. Use the provider's website to verify any changes. HeadStart Academy does not set fees; institutions set them and may adjust annually.
International students generally need an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). Additionally, applicants should have completed Year 12 or equivalent, or hold a relevant Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Some providers may offer pathway options if you do not meet direct entry requirements. Contact Alma Mater College for specific entry criteria, including any foundation or bridging programs.
This course includes a work-integrated learning component: 20 weeks of industry placement at 20 hours per week (approximately 400 total hours). This gives you hands-on experience in early childhood settings such as childcare centres or preschools. Placements are a key part of the qualification, allowing you to apply theory to real-world practice under supervision.
The course is delivered at Level 2, 55 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne is Victoria's capital city and a major education hub, home to over 150,000 international students and hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–$350, groceries $80–$120, and public transport $50–$70 (with student concessions). The campus is centrally located with excellent tram and train connections.
To study this Diploma on a student visa (Subclass 500), you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your stay, and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All international students are protected by the ESOS Act 2000. For visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.
Melbourne offers a vibrant multicultural environment, a strong job market in education, and extensive support for international students. The city has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. With its café culture, arts scene, and proximity to beaches and parks, Melbourne is a popular destination. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences: weekly living expenses typically range from A$500–$700 including rent, food, and transport. The cost of living in Melbourne is lower than Sydney but higher than other Australian cities like Brisbane or Adelaide.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Alma Mater College Australia 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.