Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119642M) is a Certificate III delivered by Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course, registered under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 3), is designed for international students seeking to start a career in early childhood education. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 03737A), it meets Australian Government standards for quality and student welfare. The field of education (070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood) prepares graduates to support children's learning and development in various early childhood settings. With delivery locations in both Geelong and Melbourne, this course offers flexibility and access to two vibrant Victorian cities. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you can study with confidence under the ESOS Act protections.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119642M) is a Certificate III delivered by Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies Pty Ltd over 1 year. This program is ideal for international students who want to work with children aged 0–5 years in childcare centres, preschools, or family day care settings. The course covers key competencies such as supporting children's development, fostering positive relationships, and maintaining safe learning environments. As a CRICOS-registered qualification, it ensures you meet Australian industry standards. Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03737A) is a private provider with over a decade of experience in vocational education. The course code CHC30125 is the national VET code for this qualification. With an indicative total fee of A$14,000, this program offers a cost-effective pathway into the early childhood sector.
This course falls under the field of education (07) and specifically teacher education: early childhood (070101). Students learn about child development, play-based learning, cultural diversity, and inclusive practices. Core units typically include supporting children's physical and emotional wellbeing, fostering creativity, and working collaboratively with families. The course also emphasises practical communication and teamwork skills essential for early childhood settings. While the exact syllabus is set by Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies, graduates of Certificate III level programs are equipped to support licensed educators and contribute to curriculum planning. This foundation can lead to further study in Diploma or Bachelor programs in early childhood education.
The course is scheduled for 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies component). Full-time study is required, with classes likely held during the day. Being a vocational course, it includes both theoretical and practical components. International students must maintain satisfactory course progress to comply with student visa conditions. Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies offers this course at two locations in Victoria, allowing you to choose between a regional or metropolitan study experience.
The indicative costs for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care are as follows: tuition fee A$12,500, non-tuition fee A$1,500, estimated total A$14,000. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional expenses not included in the total are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For current and accurate fee information, always check Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies' official website at www.nsmt.vic.edu.au. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting at least A$21,041 per year for living costs in Victoria (as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines).
For international students, the generally accepted English language requirement is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Applicants should have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent overseas schooling. Some providers may also require a Working with Children Check or a police clearance. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements — please check with Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies directly. As a VET course, this level assumes basic literacy and numeracy skills. Note that meeting these requirements does not guarantee admission; the final decision rests with the provider.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks (at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 160 hours). This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically involves a supervised industry placement in an early childhood education setting such as a childcare centre or preschool. The placement allows you to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world environment, build professional networks, and gain practical experience valued by employers. Under the Student visa (Subclass 500), you can engage in this placement as part of your course requirements. Ensure you have the necessary clearances (e.g., Working with Children Check) before commencing placement.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at two locations in Victoria: Geelong (MCTS Geelong) and Melbourne (NSMT CBD: Room 1). Geelong is Victoria's second-largest city, known for its lower cost of living compared to Melbourne (indicative weekly rent A$150–A$250) and growing student population. Melbourne, the state capital, offers a bustling multicultural environment with abundant public transport (trams, trains, buses) and a diverse student community of over 200,000 international students. Both locations are easily accessible and provide quality facilities. Victoria has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses, making it a top destination for international students.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies is required to apply. For detailed visa information, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Applying for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies is straightforward: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city) to ensure your chosen course meets your goals. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution — check entry requirements, submit English test results, and meet application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to prepare your documents early, including academic transcripts, passport, and proof of English proficiency.
Victoria is a top study destination with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, including Melbourne Centre for Technology Studies. Melbourne consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable cities, offering a vibrant cultural scene, excellent public transport, and a diverse international student community. Geelong provides a more affordable regional lifestyle with a growing job market. The cost of living in Victoria is higher than in some other states, with indicative weekly expenses of A$150–A$300 for rent (shared), A$60–A$100 for groceries, and A$30–A$50 for public transport. Consider your preferences for city size, climate, and career opportunities. Both locations offer strong pathways into the early childhood education sector, with demand for qualified educators across Australia.
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Certificate III in 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.