Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119260C) is a Diploma level qualification delivered by States College Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course is designed for international students who want to pursue a career in early childhood education, focusing on child development, program planning, and regulatory compliance. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. Whether you're planning to work as an early childhood educator or pathway to further study, this diploma provides practical skills and theoretical knowledge. All information below is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is subject to change. Always confirm with the provider before applying.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (VET national code CHC50125) is an AQF Level 5 qualification in the field of Education (07 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood). It is offered by States College Australia Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04106B), a private provider based in Melbourne, Victoria. The course runs for 52 weeks (1 year) with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. Students are required to complete a work component of 7 weeks (40 hours per week, approximately 280 total hours) as part of the curriculum, providing real-world experience in early childhood settings. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and this course is one of them.
This diploma focuses on the knowledge and skills required to work in early childhood education and care services. Students learn about child development from birth to school age, designing and implementing curriculum, maintaining health and safety standards, building relationships with families, and leading teams in early childhood settings. The course covers regulatory frameworks, inclusive practices, and ethical responsibilities. While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, graduates typically gain competencies to apply for roles such as early childhood educator or centre director, or to pursue further study in education at higher AQF levels.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 52 weeks (1 year). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation program. Students are expected to attend classes full-time at the Melbourne campus. The course includes a mandatory work component of 7 weeks (280 hours) to meet vocational training requirements.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$22,500, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,500. The estimated total cost is A$24,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For current fee information, visit the provider's website at States College Australia. Always confirm fees directly before applying.
International students typically require an IELTS score between 5.5 and 6.0 overall (or equivalent) for entry to this diploma. Applicants are expected to have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Some providers may also require prior study in early childhood or related fields. Foundation or pathway options, if available, should be confirmed with the institution. Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider assesses each application individually.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 7 weeks (280 hours total, at 40 hours per week). This industry placement is likely to involve supervised work in early childhood education and care settings such as childcare centres or kindergartens. It is designed to apply theoretical knowledge in real environments and develop practical competencies required for employment. The exact placement arrangements are coordinated by States College Australia.
This course is delivered at States College Australia's campus in Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant multicultural student population and excellent public transport. The city is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study options. Indicative living costs in Melbourne are approximately A$300–450 per week for rent, A$60–80 for groceries, and A$40–50 for public transport. For more on studying in Victoria, see our Victoria study guide.
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 course breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs sets visa criteria; always check current requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice. Consult a registered MARA agent for personalised guidance.
Melbourne is a top destination for international students, with a high concentration of CRICOS-registered providers across all study levels. The city offers a strong early childhood education sector with many placement opportunities. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney, and public transport is comprehensive. However, consider factors like climate (cooler than northern Australia), accommodation availability, and part-time work options. This diploma is particularly suited to those who enjoy working with children and seek a career in a growing field. For more on education courses in Melbourne, see our Education in Melbourne guide.
Applying for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at States College Australia involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm the provider is registered (04106B). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English language test scores (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and application deadlines. Submit required documents to States College Australia. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
Ready to start your journey? Follow the three-step application process above or visit the States College Australia website for direct enrolment details.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at States 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.