bachelor of early childhood education online qld

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Bachelor of Early Childhood

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• Springfield
• 3 year(s) (or part-time equivalent)

Career outcomes

Entry requirements.

• Degree structure
• Fees and scholarships
• Are you interested in a career in early childhood education? UniSQ’s Bachelor of Early Childhood will give you the attributes required in the early childhood education and child care sector.
• With an emphasis on the knowledge, skills, practices and values inherent in contemporary understandings of best practice in early childhood education, you will be well positioned to work with children and families in an array of early learning environments.
• With UniSQ, you will have the chance to study your early childhood degree online, on-campus, or a combination of both.
• You will receive practical career experience with 80 days of targeted professional experience placements in a variety of settings. International and domestic students are required to attend the majority of placements in settings within Australia.      
• Completion of the Bachelor of Early Childhood provides seamless entry into the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood), enabling you to receive teacher registration.
• Already have an early childhood qualification from TAFE or another recognised provider? UniSQ may be able to offer you recognition for prior learning to help you finish your degree faster.

Professional accreditation

This program is approved with the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) .

Our Bachelor of Early Childhood does not qualify for teacher registration with the Queensland College of Teachers. If you are looking for teacher registration, we recommend studying the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) .

• As a graduate, you will have the skills, knowledge and experience required to work in a range of prior to school learning environments, including early education and care centres and family day care programs as a director, educator, supervisor or as a group leader.

Find the entry requirements most relevant to you.

Recent secondary education

Pre-requisites

• Subject pre-requisites: English (Units 3 & 4, C), General Mathematics (Units 3 & 4, C) or equivalent

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education – VU Brisbane

Enquire online.

Fill in our course enquiry form and we'll get in touch.

Key information

ATAR : not required Course code : EBEC CRICOS code : 115485G Duration : 3 years (6 semesters of study) Fees (2024) : A$15,500 per semester (scholarship  available )* Intakes : 29 July, 30 September

*At VU Brisbane you can make payment on a block-by-block schedule. You will receive 4 invoices per semester: one for each unit.

Become an in-demand early-childhood teacher, equipped with effective skills and practical experience, with a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education at Victoria University Brisbane.

Be part of the massive future growth expected in early childhood education, with  over 10,600 new jobs expected  to be added in the next five years.

Your Bachelor of Early Childhood Education will prepare you for a rewarding career nurturing the development and wellbeing of children from birth to five years. As a degree-qualified early childhood teacher, you’ll:

• support young children with the important foundations to set them up for success in life
• develop techniques for involving families as important contributors to the learning process
• set children up for effective transitions to school.

At VU, you will learn to support children to feel capable and confident. You’ll build a strong sense of social justice, understand child development in the early years and develop ethical professional teaching practice that includes Indigenous perspectives.

Studying at VU means taking advantage of our strong connections with community centres, local councils, childcare settings and kindergartens.

Your 80 days of supervised teaching experience includes:

• 10 days in the unique VU playgroup program
• 15 days with infants and toddlers in a childcare centre
• 55 days with 3–5 year olds in a childcare centre or funded kindergarten.

In our ‘VU Play’ pop-up play spaces, you’ll create and maintain play spaces that encourage children to engage in self-directed play, using loose parts and various materials. You’ll work within the concept of ‘playwork’ to observe, reflect and analyse the children playing and intervene or make changes when needed. This program runs at various locations around Brisbane CBD.

Find out more about our  practical programs in early childhood education .

Experience a range of cultures, histories and early childhood teaching styles to broaden your perspective. As a VU student, you’ll have access to our:

Study tour to Malaysia : complete a three-week placement in a Malaysian early childhood centre, enjoying a rich cultural immersion experience to learn different approaches to early childhood education.

Student exchange with Karlstad University in Sweden : spend six months in Sweden studying and completing practical placements that count towards your course, learning European approaches to early childhood education and broadening your cultural awareness.

Placements in the Northern Territory : spend four weeks in a remote Indigenous community in the Northern Territory, experiencing a rich culture and perspectives to inform your approach to early childhood teaching.

For your first year of bachelor-level study, you’ll enjoy the supportive experience of our  VU First Year College®  program in-person at our VU Brisbane Campus.

Note:  All of the unit delivery for the Bachelor of Early Childhood will be face-to-face.

As soon as you graduate from this course, you’ll meet the requirements to register as a teacher with  Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) .

Course structure & units

To attain the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education you will be required to complete 288 credit points of core studies.

You will also undertake practical placements that include 80 days supervised professional experience.

Human Development, Sustainability and Wellbeing (Unit code: EEC1112) | Credits: 12)

Creativity and the Arts in Education (Unit code: EEC1113 | Credits: 12)

Playing with Play (Unit code: ECE1001 | Credits: 12)

Professional Understandings of Quality Frameworks in Early Childhood (Unit code: ECE1002 | Credits: 12)

Educational Programs and Practice (Unit code: ECE1003 | Credits: 12)

Safe, Secure and Supportive Relationships and Environments (Unit code: ECE1004 | Credits: 12)

Reconciling Australian Humanities Education (Unit code: AEK1106 | Credits: 12)

Personal and Professional Learning (Unit code: EEC1101 | Credits: 12)

Practice in Partnership 1 (Unit code: ECE2001 | Credits: 12)

Practice in Partnership 2 (Unit code: ECE2002 | Credits: 12)

History, Philosophy and Early Childhood Education (Unit code: ECE2003 | Credits: 12)

Engaging with Place through Rethinking Childhoods and Development (Unit code: ECE2004 | Credits: 12)

Engaging with Place through Play (Unit code: ECE2005 | Credits: 12)

Materiality in Early Childhood: Visual and Creative Arts (Unit code: ECE2006 | Credits: 12)

Moving with Young Children (Unit code: ECE2007 | Credits: 12)

Music, Movement and Dramatic Arts (Unit code: ECE2008 | Credits: 12)

Thinking with Young Children: Language and Literacy (Unit code: ECE3001 | Credits: 12)

Advocacy in Leadership and Management in Early Childhood Education (Unit code: ECE3002 | Credits: 12)

Practice in Partnership 3 (Unit code: ECE3003 | Credits: 12)

Critical and Contemporary Issues in Early Childhood Education (Unit code: ECE3004 | Credits: 12)

Equity, Social Justice and Diversity in Early Childhood Education (Unit code: ECE3005 | Credits: 12)

Thinking with Young Children: Science, Maths and Technology (Unit code: ECE3006 | Credits: 12)

Practice in Partnership 4 (Unit code: ECE3007 | Credits: 24)

On successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Initiate teaching and learning practices that foster learner engagement in complex contexts and foreground Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander standpoints in early childhood education.
• Critically reflect on different ways of knowing, being, and doing founded on the view of children and families as capable contributors to conceptual and pedagogical decision-making in learning and teaching.
• Design teaching practices that reflect an ability to contextualise, question, resist, rethink, and act towards equity and the public good.
• Exhibit a broad and coherent body of knowledge of pedagogy, curriculum and assessment in relation to the changing nature of education in a rapidly-evolving global context.
• Critically review and articulate a range of oral and written communication techniques, including in the use of Information and Communication Technologies, to engage and connect with students, their parents/carers and the wider community,
• Design learning opportunities that embrace a rich and varied curriculum, ensure that learning and teaching approaches are based on sound ethical principles and foster reciprocal relationships in early childhood settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants for this course will need to meet the entry criteria outlined below.

If you've completed a qualification where English was the primary language of instruction, you may be eligible for an exemption of English-language requirements.

In some cases, there may be additional entry requirements. Meeting the minimum entry criteria does not guarantee entry into this course.

Learn more about entry requirements for international students.

You must provide evidence that you have completed an approved English language test, and achieved the result as described below:

• IELTS (Academic Module): Overall score 6.5 (no band less than 6.0)
• TOEFL Internet: Overall score 79 (section scores no less than: Listening 19, Speaking 19, Reading 18, Writing 22)
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Overall score 58-64 (no section score less than 50)
• University of Cambridge - Advanced (CAE): Total score of 176 (no individual band less than 169)
• VU English - University Preparation UPU (Undergraduate): Achieved
• English Language School in Sydney (ELSIS) - EAP 2 (advanced): A grade.

Students will require a Working with Children Check or equivalent in NSW and Queensland , to be eligible to undertake and participate in workplace visits, placements or projects. Use the site link to obtain additional information.

Credit for skills & past study

If you have completed study with another university or institution and believe you are eligible to receive credit for skills and past study, you can  apply for credit (advanced standing ).

Applications for advanced standing can be made after a discussion with your course chair or academic adviser.

With this nationally accredited degree, you can work around Australia in:

• public or private kindergartens
• long day care centres
• early childhood centres in Australia
• policy development with government bodies.

Thanks to the essential experience you’ll get from teaching in childcare settings and kindergartens during your placements, you’ll be ready to register as a teacher as soon as you graduate.

Enjoy the rewards that come with nurturing the next generation and expect to  earn above-average wages . 

How to apply

1. Talk to us – Call  +61 7 3210 7402

A conversation with one of our Student Enrolment Advisors will reassure you that you meet all the application requirements of the online course.

2. Prepare your documents

To complete your application, you will need to submit:

• certified copies of your academic transcript/s or certificate/s of completion
• a copy of your current CV that includes your current Position Description (PD)
• supporting letter from your employer outlining your duties, responsibilities and duration of your employment/volunteer work.

3.   Submit your application .

Apply online directly via our Admissions Centre.

You will receive an email to confirm your application and advise whether you need to provide any additional information.

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to Five Years)(Accelerated) Queensland FAQ

1. what career pathways will this course provide me.

After making the big decision to commit to this course I will be a Bachelor trained (four-year equivalent) Early Childhood Teacher. Job ready with confidence and practical experience, there are now more rewarding and inspiring career pathways and professional opportunities available to me, including early childhood teacher, educational leader, early years manager / children's services manager/Director and so much more.

2. What is the course about and what are my commitments?

What is the duration of each professional term.

Designed to meet the needs of aspiring early years educators, employers, the sector, the government and the wider community, this course offers 9 Professional Terms with 2-4 units in each term. Units in each Professional Term run for approximately 8-9 weeks, and placement units may take a longer number of weeks.

How many study hours per week are required?

I can expect the workload to be up to 150 hours per unit, per term. However, this number varies depending on the unit and assessments. Designed to be fully online, this course offers me greater flexibility to complete the work at times that best suit me, where I can determine my own study schedule. Furthermore, some assessments may also be completed within the 2-day symposium weekends each term. Ample support will be made available by ACU to assist me to fulfill the requirements of the course.

What types of assessment tasks are anticipated? Will there be exams, or will the tasks be more simulated workplace assignments?

The assessments vary depending on the unit e.g., unit planning, creating parent pamphlets, essays, simulated workplace assignments. While a small number of units have an exam.

Where and when will symposium weekends be held?

Symposium weekends will be held at both Brisbane and Townsville ACU campuses or online. Dates for future symposiums can be obtained by emailing [email protected] .

Face-to-face attendance is recommended for both days however online attendance is available.

Which textbooks do you recommend?

Each unit will recommend different readings, based on the unit focus. Look for the Unit Outline document that is provided for each unit (on the unit information Canvas tile), at the end of the document is a list of recommended readings.

3. Deferral or postponement from the course?

Can i defer from the course.

Deferral is not available for the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to Five Years) (Accelerated). However, I can apply for an interruption of studies if I have completed and achieved final grades for at least one professional term of the course. If I would like to withdraw from the course, I will need to let ACU know by contacting the Course Coordinator and email [email protected] and [email protected] . If circumstances change, I can reapply for the course the following year if offered.

I accepted my offer and enrolled in my units but am no longer able to/ wanting to continue in the program. Can I move my enrolment to the following term or year?

Postponement of enrolment is not available for this course. I will need to withdraw from the enrolled units prior to census date . If I withdraw from units after the census date , I will incur academic and financial penalties.

If I would like to withdraw from the course, I will need to let ACU know by contacting [email protected] , [email protected] and the Course Coordinator.

If I withdraw, am I required to pay back any of the contribution to course fees or funding I received?

I will not be required to repay any contribution to course fees or funding received for the studies completed up to the time of withdrawal. However, I will need to withdraw from units prior to census date . Any withdrawals after census date  means I may incur academic and financial penalties. I can reapply the following year if the course is offered and there are places available.

I have previously applied for leave. Will I still be able to undertake the course?

If I have already booked a period of annual leave longer than 2 weeks, prior to getting into the course, I will need to contact the course coordinator via email [email protected] to seek advice.

If I plan to take leave, this should not be during placement dates as these have been set and cannot be moved. I should also avoid taking leave over one of the symposium weekends. While on annual leave, it is expected that I will keep up with the weekly content as I will still need to submit the assessment tasks as scheduled in the Unit Outlines (being on leave will not be a valid reason for seeking a due date extension).

If I am struggling to complete an assignment on time, can I get an extension?

Yes, I will be able to apply for an extension if I meet the eligibility criteria.

What happens if I fail a unit of study?

If I happen to fail a unit, and I am eligible for Supplementary Assessment, I will be contacted by the Lecturer in Charge of the Unit. Supplementary Assessment is only offered where a student has failed only one unit in the Professional Term, and that failed unit has a grade between 45-49% and is NOT a unit with a practicum/placement.

If I failed one unit, but I am determined to continue my study in this course. Will there be any academic or financial penalties?

I can continue to study this course; however, I will incur a Commonwealth Support Places (CSP) gap payment or full fee payment for the unit I need to repeat. I can choose to re-enrol in the unit through the mainstream offering (12 weeks semester) or through the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to Five Years) Accelerated program when the unit is next offered. Once I have successfully passed all the required units, I will be eligible to course complete.

What if I cannot complete the course within 18 months? Are there any options to extend it?

It would be difficult to make up a unit in this program due to the accelerated nature of it. However, the program has been designed so that there is an appropriate amount of support to assist me with achieving the best possible results. If concerned that I am falling behind in any of the units, ACU recommend I reach out to the available supports and course contacts for assistance. There is also an option to apply for interruption of study and return later if there are exceptional circumstances preventing me from continuing.

4. Where can I find the dates for the entire course (study dates and placement dates)?

Please see the course study dates for 2024.

The course map can be found here, which shows the terms I will be undertaking placement units (PEP).

If I cannot commit to these placement dates, ACU strongly advises that I withdraw from the course and reapply the following year (if offered). If I choose to proceed with the course and then cannot complete the placement, this will impact course progression.

Each placement day requires 7.6 hours of teaching time, this is a placement requirement (a lunch break is additional to this time). I will be required to mirror supervising teachers shifts throughout the placement.

For all placement days that are not full weeks (e.g., 1 day, 2 days or 3 days), I can choose which days to attend, however it must be within the week specified. Where 5 days of placement is specified, I must complete full time blocks. While any placement days that fall on a public holiday must be made up.

5. What are the costs and is there any financial support available?

The Early Childhood Education (Birth to Five Years) (Accelerated) program includes financial assistance through an ACU Dean's grant to reduce the cost of course units.

• ACU will provide you with a $215 fee reduction per unit that you have initially enrolled in and successfully completed during this degree. The fee reduction will not be provided for units that have to be repeated due to unsuccessful completion.

I will also have access to a range of ACU student services and support.

How does it work?

Course fees

I am responsible for paying the CSP (Commonwealth Supported Place) unit costs for this degree and the Student Amenities Fee. For more information about fees and fee help: https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/fees-and-scholarships

6. What do I do to enrol?

To enrol in the course please view this video to find a step-by-step guide on how to enrol.

If I experience any difficulty with enrolment, or need assistance, I can contact AskACU , or [email protected]

How can I check my enrolment?

The following services are available to support students with enrolment:

Enrolment questions and support: [email protected]

AskACU: https://acu.service-now.com/askacu

7. Do I need to apply for credit from my Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care?

No, the accelerated course is designed to take into account the study already completed in a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. Students do not need to apply for credit.

8. Is LANTITE test a compulsory requirement to complete the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to Five Years) Accelerated course?

No, LANTITE is not a compulsory requirement for this course.

9. What professional practicum experience will I need to complete?

Students will complete 80 days of placement.

10. Can I complete all 80 days of placement at my current workplace?

The first placement (30 days) will be undertaken in my current workplace. The other 3 placements need to be undertaken in other approved early childhood education and care settings.

There are multiple people at my workplace completing this course, how do we manage our placements?

I will need to contact ACU's Project Officer through [email protected] and they will contact my Service Provider to discuss.

Is there flexibility with placements?

The placement dates are fixed, they cannot be changed (the only exception is in the case where there are multiple students completing placement within the same service or for exceptional circumstances such as illness).

What is a placement supervising teacher?

On each placement I am required to have a degree qualified supervising teacher to monitor my progress and complete the final report assessment. It is preferred that my supervising teacher works in the same room where I complete the placement.

11. What support will be provided to help me successfully complete the course?

What supports are there if i am having trouble accessing acu systems.

The following services are available to support students with system access issues:

ACU system access issues: https://acu.service-now.com/askacu

Canvas system access issues: https://cases.canvaslms.com/liveagentchat

Phone: (02) 8310 8314

Is there a number I can call for support with admissions?

Students can call Ask ACU on 1300 275 228, other than this all enquiries need to be sent via email.

Have a question?

We're available 9am–5pm AEDT, Monday to Friday If you’ve got a question, our AskACU team has you covered. You can search FAQs, text us, email, live chat, call – whatever works for you.

Live chat with us now

Chat to our team for real-time answers to your questions.

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As a graduate, you are supported by specialist academics and experience real-world opportunities that prepares you to teach. Professional experience placements provide the opportunity to work in real educational settings, supervised by practising professional educators.

You must take the majority of their professional experience in Australian primary schools. As an Early childhood graduate you will be prepared to work in early childhood education and care settings, kindergarten and Prep to Year 3 in primary schools.

This course is covered by the QUT Offer Guarantee .

For more course information, visit Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) at QUT .

A Suitability Card is required; refer to institution. You must successfully complete the National Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students to graduate.

For additional information about the admissions criteria for QUT and for this course, refer to QUT’s website.

English, Literature, English and Literature Extension or English as an Additional Language (Units 3 and 4, C); General Mathematics, Mathematical Methods or Specialist Mathematics (Units 3 and 4, C); Any General subject from the Sciences Learning Area (Units 3 and 4, C); Applicant must be 16; Completion of Year 12 or attained age 18 years; LANTITE Literacy status; LANTITE Numeracy status; Teaching Personal Statement

For information regarding the Teaching Personal Statement, refer to QTAC’s teacher entry website. Applicants who have failed two or more attempts of either component of the National Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students, and have not passed it in a later attempt, are not eligible for entry.

Minimum selection threshold explained .

For more information about the ATAR/Selection Rank profile, please visit ATAR/Selection Rank profile explained .

Highest Rank to receive an offer

Median Rank to receive an offer

Lowest Rank to receive an offer

ATAR/Selection Rank excluding adjustment factors

ATAR/Selection Rank including adjustment factors

Excluding: The lowest ATAR/Selection Rank to which an offer was made, excluding adjustment factors. Including: The lowest ATAR/Selection Rank to which an offer was made including any adjustment factors that may have been applied.

For more information about the Student profile, please visit Student profile explained .

Higher education study

Vocational Education and Training (VET) study

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Recent secondary education

Recent secondary education admitted solely on the basis of ATAR/Rank

Admitted where both ATAR/Rank and additional criteria were considered

Admitted on the basis of other criteria only and ATAR/Rank was not a factor

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Number of students

Percentage of all students

* “<5" – the number of students is less than 5 # N/P – Not published: the number is hidden to prevent calculation of numbers in cells with less than 5 students

Early childhood teacher, leadership roles in childcare settings.

15 Jan 2024 6 Jun 2024

4 years Full time or 8 years Part time or 4-8 years Online learning

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Bachelor Of Early Childhood Education

Turn your teaching dream into a reality….

The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education is your pathway to an exciting career as an early childhood teacher where you will gain a contemporary body of knowledge and skills to educate children from birth to five years across a variety of settings and professional roles. Central to the course design is the significance of the development and learning that occurs between birth and starting school for every child.

This degree is for anyone who has a genuine interest in understanding and enhancing children’s learning in a comprehensive and holistic manner. It is also suitable for those who have completed a related qualification and want to further their education to become an early childhood teacher.

This course is recognised in the Australian Qualification Framework.

CRICOS Code: 102713G Australian Qualification Framework: Level 7

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Ready to apply, key information.

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

4 Years Full Time (or Part Time Equivalent)

February, May, September

Study Modes

On Campus, Online Learning

Study Locations

Adelaide Campus Brisbane Campus accepting applications for Trimester 3, 2024! Melbourne Campus Sydney Campus Online (Domestic only)

Course Fees

Domestic (FEE-HELP available) International

Professional Recognition

The course is recognised by the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) as an approved early childhood qualification for Early Childhood Teachers under the National Quality Framework.

Course Overview

The importance of access to early childhood education and its long-term benefits is well recognised. In the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, you will study the significance of the learning and development that occurs between birth and starting school for every child. As graduate early childhood teachers, you will have an understanding of educational theory and contemporary approaches to empower you to design and deliver curriculum that enhances each child’s learning dispositions and cognitive, social, emotional and physical development skills.

During your four-year degree, you will develop skills in play pedagogy to teach literacy, maths, science, technology, engineering, arts, music, dance, drama, multimodal media, and STEM to young children. This will be balanced with safety, health and wellbeing; documentation, planning and assessment; sustainable practices; working with families and communities; diversity and inclusion practices; advocacy and research; pedagogical and educational leadership; and service provision and management.

As part of the degree, you will actively engage in 80 days of professional experience across four discrete placements to develop your teaching practice with young children. The final 30-day placement will give you the opportunity to consolidate your pedagogical and leadership practice, and the confidence and practical experience to enter the sector as a graduate early childhood teacher.

This course meets the required guidelines as specified by the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), and the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA ).

This qualification is FEE-HELP approved for  eligible applicants.

Nurture our youngest global citizens.

Studying early childhood education at ikon…, turn your teaching dream into a reality..

The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education is for progressive and motivated students ready to embark on a meaningful teaching career. You’ll learn how to inspire young children’s wonder and creativity through innovative content and approaches to early years education. We collaborate with international and local communities to ensure our future teachers are perfectly primed for the world they’ll inspire.

Belong to a like-minded, connected community

When you join our Early Childhood Education program at Ikon, you’ll become part of a diverse and collaborative community united by the drive to positively influence young lives. You’ll walk out our doors with not only an unsurpassed higher education, but also the knowledge you’re part of a bigger collective cause.

Educate yourself for a world of opportunities

Qualified and inspiring teachers are in demand the world over. As you learn how to educate young children, you’re also opening up a world of possibilities for your own future. Our degrees are internationally respected and our unique approach merges grounded academic theory and contemporary concepts with practical learning and real-life workplace experiences.

Be the inspiration every young child needs

Through our degree you will become an inspiring teacher, leader, and advocate, for every child you educate. You’ll be armed with the absolute latest knowledge and contemporary perspectives on learning in the early years so you can be the champion of children’s voices across the globe.

Career Opportunities

The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education prepares graduates for an exciting career as an early childhood teacher with the skills to educate children from birth to five years across a variety of early childhood settings, and in professional and community roles within the sector. Graduates wishing to advance their learning in early childhood education may be eligible for postgraduate studies.

The course is recognised by the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) as an approved early childhood qualification for Early Childhood Teachers under the National Quality Framework. Graduates may be eligible for teacher accreditation recognition via their relevant state regulatory authority.

Course Structure

What will i learn.

• Teaching theory, skills and practice directed specifically for the learning and development of children aged birth to five years through meaningful learning experiences and curriculum based on sound pedagogical principles.
• The importance of play-based learning where children are actively engaged with activities that, while incorporating elements of play, also supports their learning and development
• How to encourage children’s participation and support diversity, equity and inclusion in the early years with emphasis on the construction and dynamics of families and communities in diverse contexts.
• The correlation between social and emotional development and behaviour, the importance of promoting and encouraging children’s agency and positive behaviour, and how to support children to self-regulate, develop their social-emotional skills and connect through positive social interactions.
• Preparation for educational leadership and service management including how to critically analyse issues and policy developments in the sector and to reflect on their own practice as professional early childhood educators
• Professional experience through a series of placement under the supervision of experienced educational leaders, giving you a real sense of early childhood education practices.

Study Sequence

The course consists of 32 subjects including four placement subjects. You must successfully complete all subjects to graduate with the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (192 credit points).

Each academic year consists of three study periods called trimesters. Each trimester consists of eleven weeks of teaching plus one exam week.

A full-time study load is eight subjects per year across three trimesters. A part-time study load is typically five subjects per year.

Delivery & Workload

Course delivery for the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education is a combination of on-campus lectures, tutorials, out of class self-directed study and workplace learning.

Each year includes the completion of one placement to accumulate 80 days professional experience by the end of the degree.

You should allow for 3 hours per subject for on-campus lectures and tutorials. For each subject, you should then spend approximately 10 hours per week for self-directed study to complete prescribed readings, practice skills, research, study and complete assessments.

Interested in studying this course online? Click here to learn more about our distance learning options.

• Professional Practice
• Exploring Play & Documentation
• Holistic Child Development
• Diversity & Equity
• Safety, Health & Wellbeing
• Development, Assessment & Planning
• Exploring Creativity
• Professional Experience 1

This subject explores the role of the early childhood professional; the operations of early childhood settings; relevant conventions, legislation, regulations, codes of conduct; policy; and quality assurance processes that inform the day to day practices of an early childhood teacher.

Assessments: Report (30%), Presentation and Leaflet (30%), Essay (40%) ECUR102 Exploring Play and Documentation

This subject explores early childhood play theory and pedagogy; the role of the early childhood teacher in play; how to reflect on and utilise play to document, assess, plan and reflect on children’s learning and development; as well as the variety of documentation techniques utilised in early childhood settings to document and create play environments for children.

EDEV103 Holistic Child Development

This subject explores child development; developmental theories and influences; genetics and growth; the brain and neuroscience; developmental domains and milestones; learning dispositions; and the importance of using child development to inform the pedagogical practices of an early childhood teacher.

Assessments: Research Task (30%), Booklet (40%), Exam (30%)

This subject explores diversity and equity in the early years context; personal and professional cultural identity and competence; dominant discourse and bias in practices; the diversity and richness of inclusion in an early childhood curriculum of First Nations Peoples and culture, abilities, race, ethnicity, linguistics, gender, sexuality, and spirituality by an early childhood teacher.

Assessments: Report (30%), Essay (30%), Presentation and Leaflet (40%) EPRO105 Safety, Health and Wellbeing

This subject explores the significance of a holistic approach to the health, wellbeing, wellness, nutrition and safety of infants and children in early childhood education and care settings.

Assessments: Presentation and Report (30%), Essay (40%), Exam (30%) ETCH106 Development, Assessment and Planning (3 to 5 years)

This subject explores child development, teaching practices and pedagogy, assessment and planning for nurturing and educating children three to five years.

Assessments: Annotated Bibliography (30%), Essay (30%), Booklet (40%) ETCH107 Exploring Creativity

This subject explores creativity in the early years across all curriculum areas, as well as the early childhood teacher’s role in documenting, assessing, and planning meaningful learning experiences to foster creativity and support children’s holistic development.

Assessments: Essay (30%), Presentation and Leaflet (40%), Reflective Practice Journal (30%) PLAC907 Professional Experience (3 to 5 years)

This subject applies learned theory, knowledge, skills, and practices of an early childhood teacher in an approved early childhood education setting with children aged three to five years.

• Theoretical Perspectives & Pedagogy
• Understanding & Supporting Exceptionality
• Understanding & Guiding Behaviour
• Working with Families & Communities
• Sustainability Perspectives
• Curriculum Approaches & Teaching Strategies
• Professional Experience 2

This subject investigates early childhood theories, perspectives and understandings that influence early childhood teachers’ pedagogical approaches to curriculum design, implementation, analysis, and reflection.

Assessments: Essay (30%), Presentation and Leaflet (40%), Report (30%) EDEV202 Understanding and Supporting Exceptionality

This subject investigates contemporary inclusive education approaches in facilitating learning outcomes for all children, as well as in-depth studies of areas of exceptionality for inclusion in curriculum and teaching practices in early childhood settings.

Assessments: Essay (30%), Report (40%), Presentation (30%) ETCH203 Understanding and Guiding Behaviour

This subject investigates teachers understanding of the links between children’s contexts, development, and behaviour, as well as early childhood teaching strategies and approaches to support children’s behaviour and nurture positive self-esteem, wellbeing, self-regulation, and emotional intelligence.

Assessments: Essay (30%), Leaflet (30%), Presentation (40%) EPRO204 Working with Families and Communities

This subject investigates the diversity, complexity and changing nature of contemporary families and childhoods in differing contexts; theories and intervention strategies in working with individuals, families and communities; as well as the significance of engaging with relevant community organisations, external professionals, events and services.

Assessments: Presentation (30%), Essay (30%), Report (40%) ETCH205 Sustainability Perspectives in the Early Years

This subject investigates the key concepts, theories, priorities, and practices of education for sustainability, as well as teaching strategies and curriculum provision to nurture children’s active citizenship in sustainable practice.

Assessments: Essay (30%), Project (40%), Exam (30%) ETCH206 Development, Assessment and Planning (0 to 3 years)

This subject investigates child development, teaching practices and pedagogy, assessment and planning for nurturing and educating children birth to three years.

Assessments: Exam (30%), Booklet (40%), Documentation, Planning and Assessment Records (30%) ECUR207 Curriculum Approaches and Teaching Strategies

This subject investigates the historical, contemporary, and critical approaches to curriculum provision; the teaching strategies and national teaching standards required of an early childhood teacher; and the creation and facilitation of effective early childhood curriculums through the provision and management of learning environments across diverse contexts.

Assessments: Essay (30%), Presentation (30%), Report (40%) PLAC908 Professional Experience 2 (0 to 3 years)

This subject applies learned theory, knowledge, skills, and practices of an early childhood teacher in an approved early childhood education setting with babies and toddlers.

• Language & Literacy in the Early Years
• Mathematics in the Early Years
• Digital Technology & Media in the Early Years
• Teaching Curriculum: Literacy & Numeracy
• Teaching Curriculum: Science and Engineering
• Teaching Curriculum: Music, Dance & Drama
• Teaching Curriculum: Art
• Professional Experience 3

This subject examines children’s acquisition of language; learning opportunities to support language and literacy in early childhood environments; and the role of the early childhood teacher in facilitating each child’s language through teaching strategies such as singing, rhyming, storytelling, and digital technology.

Assessments: Research Task (30%), Essay (40%), Test (30%) ECUR302 Mathematics in the Early Years

This subject examines various theoretical underpinnings and key concepts of mathematics education; the role of the early childhood teacher; teaching strategies and the content areas for teaching mathematics in early childhood education settings.

Assessments: Essay (30%), Report (40%), Test (30%) ECUR303 Digital Technology and Media in the Early Years

This subject examines digital technologies and media in contemporary early childhood pedagogy; service provision; continued professional learning; and the use of multimodal media, digital technologies, coding, and robotics with children.

Assessments: Literature Review (30%), Learning Experience Plans and Resources (40%), Presentation (30%) ETCH304 Teaching Curriculum: Literacy and Numeracy

This subject examines the contemporary literacy and numeracy approaches to educating young children; and the role of the teacher and teaching strategies required to design curricula and embed literacy and numeracy into play-based learning opportunities.

ETCH305 Teaching Curriculum: Science and Engineering

This subject examines contemporary approaches to educating young children; and the role of the teacher and teaching strategies required to design curricula and embed science and engineering, into play-based learning opportunities.

Assessments: Multimodal Text (20%), Pedagogical Documentation (40%) and Multimedia Presentation (40%)

This subject examines contemporary creative arts approaches to educating young children; and the role of the teacher and teaching strategies required to design curricula and embed music, movement, dance, and drama into play-based learning opportunities.

Assessments: Report (30%), Teaching Portfolio (40%), Performance (30%) ETCH307 Teaching Curriculum: Art

This subject examines contemporary creative arts approaches to educating young children; and the role of the teacher and teaching strategies required to design curricula and embed visual, media and sensory art into play-based learning opportunities.

Assessments: Presentation (30%), Teaching Portfolio (40%), Art Show (30%) PLAC909 Professional Experience 3 (3 to 5 years)

• Inclusive Perspectives in Early Childhood Education
• Contemporary Curriculum in Early Childhood Education
• Indigenous Perspectives in Early Childhood Education
• Advocacy & Social Justice in Early Childhood Education
• Educational Leadership
• Leadership & Service Management
• Researching in Early Childhood Education
• Professional Experience 4 (Capstone Subject)

EPRO401  Inclusive Perspectives in Early Childhood Education

This subject synthesises the key principles, theories, legislation and government programs informing inclusive education in early childhood settings; as well as educational scholarship in applying approaches, perspectives and pedagogical practices to design contemporary inclusive learning environments, curriculum, and assessment for all children.

Assessments: Essay (30%), Report (40%), Presentation (30%)

ECUR402  Contemporary Curriculum in Early Childhood Education

This subject synthesises international and national early childhood curriculum models; current issues, debates, and ongoing professional learning in contemporary early childhood curriculum provision; as well as the impacts of educational policy decisions on families, children, the community, and society.

Assessments: Annotated Bibliography (30%), Report (30%), Project and Presentation (40%)

EPRO403 Indigenous Perspectives in Early Childhood Education

This subject synthesises Indigenous education in Australia; the diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nations, cultures, practices and beliefs on embracing reconciliation in early childhood service provision; as well as the role of the teacher in  embedding First Nation perspectives through applying historical and contemporary culturally related learning provisions.

Assessments: Research Task (30%), Report (30%), Project and Presentation (40%)

EPRO404  Advocacy and Social Justice in Early Childhood Education

This subject synthesises contemporary issues in social justice in early childhood education; the role of the curriculum in addressing social justice issues to ensure children are participating as democratic citizens within the learning environment; as well as the personal, participatory and political advocacy requirements of the early childhood teacher.

Assessments: Literature Review (30%), Project and Presentation (40%), Journal (30%)

ELDR405  Educational Leadership

This subject synthesises the theories and functions of early childhood educational leadership; the contemporary context of educational leadership in the National Quality Framework and Australian Professional Standards for Teachers; and the professional identity of pedagogical and educational leader in early childhood service provision.

Assessments: Essay (30%), Research Report (40%), Professional Learning Presentation (30%)

ELDR406  Leadership and Service Management

This subject synthesises legislation, business operations, management skills and leadership practices to create a positive service culture with emphasises on informed decision-making and delivering quality early childhood settings to the community.

Assessments: Report (30%), Management Plan (30%), Literature Review (40%)

ELDR407  Researching in Early Childhood Education

This subject synthesises historical and contemporary research projects in early childhood education, as well as designing and implementing small-scale research projects in early childhood settings.

Assessments: Research Proposal (30%), Research Project (50%), Conference Presentation (20%)

This subject consolidates learned theory, knowledge, skills, and practices of an early childhood teacher in an approved early childhood education setting with children.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Recognition of Prior Learning is an assessment process used to determine the extent to which a student has achieved the learning outcomes of a subject from earlier learning, experience or achievements. Where equivalence of prior learning can be established, course credit will be granted and the student is exempt from attending that particular subject in order to complete their course.

If you would like to apply for Credit Transfer or Recognition of Prior Learning please contact us [email protected] (domestic students), or [email protected] (international students).

Credit Transfer

If you have already completed a previous qualification, you may be able to credit this against our Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. We will review your previous qualification and/or studies to ensure that you are provided with the correct credit for your course with us.

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (VET)

Graduates of a vocational Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care qualification may be eligible for entry into the second year of the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. Eligible applicants may receive course credit via the grade of Advanced Standing for up to 66 credit points. For more information on Credit Transfer please visit our Course Credit and Pathways page.

Diploma of Early Childhood Education (Ikon)

Graduates of the nested Diploma of Early Childhood Education through Ikon Institute of Australia may gain entry into the third year of the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. Eligible applicants will receive course credit via the grade of Advanced Standing.

Exit Pathways

Students who successfully complete the first two years of the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and decide they do not wish to continue their degree studies may exit with the nested award of Diploma of Early Childhood Education.

Admission Criteria

Ikon has a range of admission pathways available to students of all circumstances and academic backgrounds. You should choose the admission pathway most relevant to your academic background.

Domestic Students

Our admission pathway options include:

• Applicants with recent Senior Secondary Education (within the past two years) must have completed an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (Year 12) or equivalent. For guaranteed entry into the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education applicants must have achieved an ATAR of 60 with a minimum of an NSW Band 4 in English (or equivalent).
• Applicants with Higher Education (HE) study must have a successful completion (or partial completion) of a higher education qualification .
• A pplicants with Vocational Education and Training (VET) study must have completed a vocational qualification at Diploma level or higher.
• Applicants with Work/Life experience who left senior secondary education more than two years prior to their application, and have not undertaken VET or HE study since, may gain entry based on professional or work experience and/or any non- formal courses undertaken in preparation for tertiary study or that are relevant to the subject area. Work/Life experience applicants must submit a written admission statement outlining their reasons for undertaking the intended course of study. For more information about writing your admissions statement  click here .

All applicants must submit a 600-word statement outlining reasons for wanting to become an early childhood teacher, and may be required to participate in an informal interview with an Ikon representative.  

To discuss the best pathway for your circumstances, please contact us at 1300 000 933 or [email protected]

For more information see:

Application Process Domestic Student Admission Policy Inherent Requirements Student Profile Table Preparing Your Personal Teaching Statement

International Students

International applicants must have an English Language Proficiency Score of IELTS 6.5 (Academic) with Speaking no less than 6.5; Listening, Writing and Reading no less than 6.0, or equivalent.

• Applicants with recent Senior Secondary Education (within the past two years) must have completed an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (Year 12). For guaranteed entry into the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education applicants must have achieved an ATAR of 60 with a minimum of an NSW Band 4 in English (or equivalent).
• Applicants with Vocational Education and Training (VET) study must have completed a vocational qualification at Diploma level or higher.

To discuss the best pathway for your circumstances, please contact us at [email protected]

Application Process International Student Admissions Policy Inherent Requirements Student Profile Table Preparing Your Personal Teaching Statement

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Early childhood education and care

Develop hands-on skills for a rewarding career in early childhood education and care and give children a fun, safe and supportive environment to learn and grow.

Study early childhood education and care

Early childhood education involves caring for and teaching pre-primary school students to enhance their social, emotional, intellectual and physical development. Our early childhood education and care courses will equip you to provide high quality care and plan developmentally appropriate experiences to help children reach their full potential.

As more parents decide to stay in or re-enter the workforce, the demand for daycare, nannies, and before and after school care is increasing. Recent changes in educator to child ratios has further heightened the need for qualified early childhood education and care workers.

TAFE Queensland offers introductory and advanced-level qualifications in early childhood education and care. Our courses will give you a depth of understanding into these early years and set you up for a rewarding career in early childhood education and care.

Career outcomes

• Alcohol and drugs worker
• Child protection officer
• Community health worker
• Community services manager
• Community development officer
• Disability support manager
• Family support worker
• Housing services officer
• Welfare worker
• Youth worker

Early childhood education and care courses

Certificate iii in early childhood education and care.

Start your career with this entry level course that will set you up with the foundation skills you need to succeed as an educator in early childhood education and care.

• Family Day Care Provider
• Early Childhood Education and Care Assistant
• Early Childhood Education and Care Worker

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

Progress your career in Early Childhood Education and Care with this advanced qualification and gain the specialised skills and knowledge needed to work as an early childhood educator or service supervisor.

• Early Childhood Educator
• Early Childhood Service Supervisor

Certificate IV in School Based Education Support

Take the next step in your career in education with this intermediate level qualification. Progress your understanding of how to support teachers and students in the classroom.

• Education Assistant
• Education Support Officer
• Education Aide
• Teaching Assistant
• Teacher Aide
• School Learning Support Officer
• School Services Officer
• Integration Aide
• Special Needs Teacher Aide
• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Education Officer
• Outside School Hours Care Assistant
• Paraprofessional Educator

Start your career with this entry-level course that will set you up with the foundation skills you need to succeed as an educator in Early Childhood Education and Care.

• Out of School Hours Care Assistant

The TAFE Queensland difference

Find out how more about our hands on, practical approach to studying early childhood education and care. Under the supervision of our experienced teaching staff you'll get to work directly with infants and children to ensure you develop the skills you need to enter the workforce sooner.

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Celebrate your milestone achievement with your loved ones and peers! Graduation is a major moment to bask in the glory of your success and share with the people who mean the most to you.

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Bachelor of Education (Primary)

Be at the forefront of shaping new generations as you introduce young minds to a wealth of knowledge about science, societies, maths, history and the beauty of music and art.

As a primary school teacher, you'll encourage children’s curiosity and inspire their inquisitive minds. The Bachelor of Education (Primary) draws on the latest educational research in combining university study with practical school-based learning. It develops skills relating to literacy and numeracy, diversity and differentiated learning, leadership and research, and effective educational uses of information and communication technologies.

Choose one of four minors to further develop your content knowledge: English and Literacy, Humanities and Social Sciences, Mathematics and Numeracy, or Science.

Supervised classroom placement commences in the first year and in your final year you'll undertake a professional experience placement, where you take full responsibility for teaching a class with minimal input from your teacher or mentor.

Studying the Bachelor of Education (Primary) will give you expertise in the Arts, English, Health and Physical Education, Humanities and Social Sciences, Mathematics, Science and Technologies.

Program highlights

• Get early experience in classrooms. Spend 10 days in a school in your first year, where you'll observe and provide hands-on help.
• Learn from the best. World-renowned educators will teach you flexible and creative ways to cater for the diverse learning needs of children.
• Study with a smaller cohort and build a support network and strong friendships with your peers.
• Cover all aspects of the Australian Curriculum while developing vital knowledge about teaching and learning, child development, diversity and inclusion, and Indigenous education.

40 in the world for education

QS World University Rankings 2024

1 in Queensland for education

How you'll learn

Your learning experiences are designed to best suit the learning outcomes of the courses you choose.

• Work placements
• Research experience

Placements and work experience

Students undertaking a Bachelor of Education (Primary) program must complete 80 days of supervised and assessed professional experience/practicum placement throughout the program.

Every effort is made to place students within a reasonable distance of their home base but they can be expected to travel up to 80 minutes due to public transport connections and incur costs associated with travel and possible lost income over this period. Students are generally placed at Ipswich, Brisbane, and southeast Queensland (including the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast) and are encouraged to explore the option of a rural placement. Financial assistance may be available to assist with travel and accommodation costs for rural placements.

Students are required to have a current Blue Card (Working with Children Check) before commencing practicum. Students can apply for a Blue Card through the School of Education and should do so three months before their practicum is due to commence. The Professional Experience Handbook provides information about practicum and school experience requirements and is available from the School of Education .

What you'll study

At UQ, degrees are called 'programs' and subjects are called 'courses'. Here's a sample of the courses you could study in this program:

• A Sociological Orientation to Education
• Early Years Curriculum and Pedagogical Foundations
• Mathematics and Numeracy for Quality Teaching in the Primary Years
• Learning and Development for Educators

See courses and program structure

Career possibilities

Our programs prepare you for your first job and beyond. Here are some of the careers you could be on your way to:

• Primary school teacher
• Education assistant
• Learning enhancement teacher
• Distance education teacher
• Curriculum planner
• Pedagogy leader

Next steps after graduation

You’ll be eligible to apply for registration as a teacher with the Queensland College of Teachers, and to work as a primary school teacher in state and independent schools in Australia and worldwide. 96% of our graduates are offered teaching jobs.

Further study and experience can lead to roles as a head of department, principal, guidance officer, learning support teacher or student adviser.

Other graduates choose to work with non-school-based education providers (such as tutoring companies), government agencies or education advocacy organisations.

Professional memberships

When you graduate, you may be eligible for memberships with the following professional organisations. Contact the organisation to find out how to become a member.

• Queensland College of Teachers

Professional registration

When you graduate, you may be eligible for registration with the following professional organisations. Contact the organisation to find out how to register.

• Queensland College Of Teachers

Program accreditation

The Bachelor of Education (Primary) is accredited by:

• Australian Institute For Teaching And School Leadership

Meeting and networking with the fantastic School of Education staff was extremely helpful in completing my degree and starting my career. A big draw card for me choosing UQ to study at was the campus culture.

The Bachelor of Education (Primary) program features practical experiences each year that enabled me to transfer what was taught on campus into a classroom setting. I have a love for teaching in purposeful and engaging ways that reflect our ever-changing world.

I love that we get to experience being in a classroom in our first year of university – it’s a good opportunity to be exposed to your future job environment and see if it's right for you.

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Entry requirements, prerequisites.

• General English subject (Units 3 & 4, C); and
• one of General Mathematics, Mathematical Methods or Specialist Mathematics (Units 3 & 4, C); and
• one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Agricultural Science, Marine Science, Earth and Environmental Science, or Psychology (Units 3 & 4, C).

See equivalent subjects

Minimum entry score

Select where you studied and your qualification to see the minimum entry score you need to be considered for this program.

Use the minimum entry score as a guide. Your score must be at least equivalent to the required Australian Year 12 ATAR score. Entry requirements are subject to change.

Equivalent subjects

Entry score threshold

These are the lowest adjusted scores we made an offer to in Semester 1, 2024. Entry scores are based on the most recent Semester 1 intake and are updated in April each year. Meeting the entry score threshold doesn't guarantee admission.

Guarantee your place at UQ: If you meet our guaranteed minimum ATAR  you could secure an offer for your preferred program.

English language requirements

IELTS score of 7.5 overall; speaking 8; listening 8, reading 7, writing 7. For other English Language Proficiency Tests and Scores approved for UQ.

TOEFL iBT (Paper Edition), PTE Academic, BE, CES, and OET are not accepted.

There are other ways to meet the English language requirements. For some programs, additional conditions apply.

Learn how to meet the English language requirements

Inherent requirements

To complete this degree, you have to meet its inherent requirements by demonstrating essential skills and attributes. Read the inherent requirements before you apply.

Learn about inherent requirements

Student visas

International students who are accepted into full-time study in the Bachelor of Education (Primary) are eligible to apply for an Australian student visa (subclass 500).

There are a number of requirements you must satisfy before a visa is granted, including the Genuine Student (GS) requirement.

Learn more about student visas

Entry score range

This table shows the range of entry scores for recent secondary students offered a place in the B Education (Primary) for Semester 1, 2024

Learn more about adjustments

Who you'll study with

Here's a snapshot of our student intake for this program in Semester 1, 2024:

"<5" — The number of students is less than 5. N/A — Students not accepted in this category. N/P — Not published. The number is hidden to protect the privacy of students in other cells.

Need help meeting the entry requirements?

We can help you meet the minimum entry score, subject prerequisites or English language requirements for your preferred program.

If you haven't studied the prerequisites or need to improve your entry score, we can help.

Learn about pathway options

Additional application information

Students are required to have a current Blue Card before commencing practicums. Students can apply for a Blue Card through the School of Education and should do so three months before their practicum is due to commence. The Professional Experience Handbook provides additional information about practicum and school experience requirements and is available from the School of Education .

As part of the Australian Institute for Teaching and Leadership (AITSL) revised Standards and Procedures (2015), applicants to initial teacher education programs (pre-service teachers) must satisfy both academic and non-academic entry criteria (online questionnaire and personal statements). For further information please see QTAC's Initial Teacher Education (ITE) advice page. Please refer to the School of Education for further information on entry requirements and becoming a teacher.

All students are required to successfully meet the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education (LANTITE) standards prior to graduation. Please contact the School of Education for further details ( [email protected] ) or visit the School of Education office. For more information on the test including sample tests, indicative fees, testing institutions and registration information, please visit the School of Education LANTITE website and the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) website .

As part of the Australian Institute for Teaching and Leadership (AITSL) revised Standards and Procedures (2015), applicants to initial teacher education courses (pre-service teachers) must satisfy both academic and non-academic entry criteria for selection to the course. All applicants will need to complete an online questionnaire to meet the non-academic entry requirement for this program. Once you have submitted your application, you will be directed to the online questionnaire.

Fees and Scholarships

Indicative annual fee.

Approximate yearly cost of tuition (16 units). Your fees will vary according to your selected courses and study load. Fees are reviewed each year and may increase.

Learn more about undergraduate fees

Approximate yearly cost of tuition (16 units). Your fees will vary according to your study load. Fees are reviewed each year and may increase.

AUD $41,120

Additional costs.

• There may be additional course costs associated with travel or materials.
• Books, technical notes etc (approx $150)
• Consumables, paper, pens etc (approx $100-200)
• Students are expected to fund travel and living expenses associated with placements, some of which may be outside the Brisbane metropolitan area.
• All students are required to successfully meet the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education (LANTITE) standards prior to graduation.
• Students are responsible for the cost of the LANTITE (approximately $196 or $98 per test). ACER website (https://teacheredtest.acer.edu.au) lists current fees.
• Please contact the School of Education for further details ([email protected]) or visit the School of Education office.
• For more information on the LANTITE tests, including sample tests and registration information, please visit the Australian Council for Educational Research website: https://teacheredtest.acer.edu.au
• Students are responsible for the cost of transportation and accommodation to attend residential schools or practicals.
• A clinical uniform shirt is required and may be purchased through the School.

Government assistance

Financial aid.

As an international student, you might be eligible for financial aid – either from your home country, or from the Australian Government.

Learn more about financial aid

Domestic places in the Bachelor of Education (Primary) are Commonwealth Supported. This means the cost of your education is shared between you and the Australian Government.

Instead of tuition fees, Commonwealth Supported students pay what are called student contribution amounts.

HECS-HELP is an Australian Government loan scheme to assist eligible students with the cost of their student contribution amounts.

Learn more about HECS-HELP

Centrelink support

The Australian Government offers a number of income-support payments to eligible Australian university students.

Learn about Centrelink payments for students

Scholarships

You may be eligible for more than 100 scholarships, including:

How to apply

Applying online.

If your senior schooling is from outside Australia, you can submit your application to UQ. Or, if you prefer, you can use an  approved UQ agent in your country .

The program code for the Bachelor of Education (Primary) is  2306 .

Find out more about applying for undergraduate study

If your senior schooling is from Australia

Submit your application to the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre if you're an international student who is currently studying:

• Australian Year 12 (in Australia or another country), or
• the International Baccalaureate in Australia.

The QTAC code for the Bachelor of Education (Primary) is  742401 .

Applying through QTAC

All domestic applications should be submitted to the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC).

The QTAC code for the Bachelor of Education (Primary) is 742401 .

Find out more about applying for undergraduate study

Important dates

If you’re studying Year 12 in Australia ,  go to the QTAC website  to check the closing date for this program. 

If you’re applying to UQ , the closing date for this program is: 

• To commence study in semester 1 - November 30 of the previous year.

To learn more about UQ dates, including semester start dates,  view the Academic Calendar . 

To check the closing date for this program, go to the QTAC website .

To learn more about UQ dates, including semester start dates, view the Academic Calendar .

Admissions schemes

Applying to university can be both exciting and daunting, which is why we’ve tried to make the process as simple as we can.

We have several schemes in place to improve your chances of getting a place at UQ.

Learn more about admission schemes

Pathway options

A rank or score doesn’t determine your potential.

If you're not offered a place in your first-choice program – or if you don't meet the entry requirements – you still have a number of options.

Learn more about pathway options

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants

For support with applying – or if you have any questions about university life – get in touch with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit.

Contact the ATSIS Unit

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Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching)

Are you ready to give children the best start in life ? Early childhood teachers play a vital role in the development of young lives.

Undergraduate

Qualification

4 years full-time

Mar, Jul, Nov

Enquire about the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching)

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A Course Consultant will be in touch to guide you through your enquiry.

They will also be able to help with any questions regarding your enrolment process, documentation you may need, course fees or how online study works.

Ready to enrol? Visit our enrolment page to submit your documents directly for our course consultants to review.

Want more information?

Fill in your details to download a detailed course guide containing:

• Career and industry pathways
• Course information
• How online study works
• Information about course fees and how to apply

‘The benefit of studying online with Swinburne Online has allowed me to schedule my time efficiently and effectively around [my life]. I have been provided with a world-class education led by industry leaders and professionals.’

Kate, Swinburne Online Education graduate

As a Kindergarten Teacher, you’ll have a strong future ahead of you, with a 17.2% increase expected in the next five years.

Our undergraduate education courses have been awarded a five-star rating for overall experience, learning resources, skills development, teaching quality and student support.

For young children, the time leading up to entering primary school is an important one, in which a child grows both physically and mentally, and cognitive skills develop at a faster rate than at any other time of life. Early childhood teachers play a vital role in shaping young minds.

The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) is accredited by the leading industry body, the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). Upon graduation, you will be qualified to teach in the pre-primary school early childhood education sector, with the flexibility to work in a range of settings including children’s centres, kindergartens, preschools and early learning centres.

Completed over four years (or part-time equivalent), you will develop a foundation in educational theory, literacy and numeracy, and build the practical skills and techniques you need to manage a classroom and the specific needs of pre-primary aged children. You will have the opportunity to implement these techniques in your practicums and fourth-year work placements.

This course is not available to international students. This is not offered to students residing in South Australia (SA) due to AITSL accreditation requirements.

What will you learn?

• Classroom Management Techniques: Learn practical, age-appropriate classroom management techniques that help nurture a positive and dynamic learning environment for children aged 0–5.
• Practical Skills for Early Childhood Teaching: Apply early-childhood specific learning techniques in group learning contexts, preparing dynamic lesson plans that harness the education potential of play and creativity.
• Curriculum Planning: Create learning activities to engage students and develop their skills.
• Child Behaviour: Understand why children display different behaviours and learn how to best approach them.
• Health & Activity: Explore a range of issues surrounding children’s health, nutrition and safety.
• Twenty-First Century Teaching: Embrace the role of being a teacher in an era of rapid change.

Learn more about our professional accreditations. Download a Course Guide.

Flexible study, how you'll learn, entry requirements, career outcomes, what does flexible study mean for me.

Studying at Swinburne Online gives you the freedom to study how it suits you. Decide when and where it fits in with your life and tailor your study journey to your own needs. Get a world-class degree without giving up what’s important.

Flexible study at Swinburne Online

Personalised study journey

Set a study pace that work with what’s going on in your life. If you’re unsure about how much you can commit to, we can offer part-time options and the option of increasing your unit load as your progress. Interested in fast-tracking your studies? You also have the opportunity to complete up to 12 units per year.

Fit study around your life

You don’t have to put your life on hold to study. Prioritise what matters to you and fit study around family, work and personal commitments through a course that is flexibly designed for online learners.

Multiple intakes

Start when it suits. Swinburne Online offers multiple intake dates and flexible unit availability, so you can choose when you begin your studies or if you need to take a break.

7-day support

Flexible study requires flexible support. As a Swinburne Online student, you’ll have support for extended hours, seven days a week, with Student Advisors available to help with any queries. You will also have dedicated online tutors in each of your units.

Your course structure

The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) consists of 32 units, including 11 core units, 13 major units, four practicum units and four elective units.

Your units are led by experienced education professionals with recent or current teaching experience and focus on arming you with the practical skills you can take straight into the classroom. You will also undertake practicum units that give you the opportunity to work and learn in an Australian school.

Why study a degree in education with Swinburne Online? Our courses are at the forefront of industry and provide you with the practical skills to success come graduation. View all units in this bachelor’s degree.

Learning designed for online

Your study journey with Swinburne Online is tailored to the digital space. You’ll study in a dynamic virtual classroom environment and interact with your peers in the custom-built social platform. You will also receive support at the times you need it from advisors who understand studying online.

Your online study journey

Online classroom

You’ll complete each of your units in Canvas, your online classroom, and guided through coursework by an online tutor with real-world experience in your field of study. Canvas is where you’ll access classes, assignments and discussion boards with your peers.

Online campus

The Student Hub is your online campus, where you’ll access the support and resources to assist you throughout your study journey. From managing your course to technical support and library resources, you’ll find it all in one easy location.

Tailored support

Swinburne Online will be there for you each step of the way. From enrolment through to graduation, we offer extended, flexible support in each of your units and advisors to assist with any queries.

Non-Year 12 entry

• Completion or partial completion of an approved tertiary qualification (including Certificates, Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas, Associate Degrees and Degrees). Additional performance criteria and prerequisite requirements may also apply.
• Students admitted to the course with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this course may be eligible for academic credit of up to 16 units.
• Applicants without a formal qualification but with significant and relevant work experience will be considered if they can demonstrate that they can undertake the course with a reasonable prospect of success.

Year 12 entry

• Successful completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or its equivalent, such as an interstate or international Year 12 qualification. Minimum ATAR requirements may apply.

Course Pre-requisites

VCE Units 3 and 4: a minimum study score of 25 in any English (except EAL) or 30 in English as Alternate Language (EAL) or equivalent.

Other requirements

All enrolled students must maintain a current Working with Children Check from the appropriate State Authority.

A Police Check may also be required by a school prior to a placement.

Scholarships

The Victorian Government is now offering scholarships to encourage early childhood teachers throughout the state through the Early Childhood Scholarship Program. Students applying for an approved qualification may be eligible to receive up to $25,000 towards an early childhood bachelor degree. Find out more through the Early Childhood Scholarships Program Guidelines, and apply by visiting the Victorian Government website .

The estimated annual fee for this course is $4,445*. This is based on completing eight 12.5 credit point units in one calendar year.

Commonwealth provided loans are available to assist eligible students to pay their course fees and there are a range of university, government and privately funded scholarships and prizes.

Discover more information about HELP loans .

Course fees will be affected by a student’s unit selection and any credit awarded in recognition of previous academic experience.

Early Childhood Teaching Scholarships Program

Scholarships are available in a bid to increase the number of qualified early childhood teachers in the early childhood education sector in NSW. More information can be found  here .

This course is not offered to international students.

Domestic students also contribute to student services and amenities via an annual fee .

Scholarships are available for both commencing and current students. You may be eligible for Swinburne Scholarships .

Become a teacher of the future

Our education graduates work in a range of rewarding roles and industries. The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) prioritises practical theory and experience inside a real classroom so that you can graduate with your foot already in the door. You will:

• Undertake practicum units that place you inside an Australian classroom
• Learn where the future of education is heading and how you can keep pace
• Learn from real educational professionals.

Early Childhood Teacher

Teach the basics of numeracy, literacy, music, and art to early childhood students.

Kindergarten Teacher

Guide young children in the acquisition of fundamental literacy and numeracy skills, effectively preparing them for a successful transition to primary school.

Early Childhood Teaching Director

Develop the curriculum, set policies and oversee daily operations of an early childhood centre.

Early Childhood Service Manager

Combine your leadership skills with your early childhood sector expertise to lead community and family engagement for an early childhood teaching centre or service.

Accreditations

The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) is accredited by the leading industry body, the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA).

Testimonial

‘I have been provided with knowledge and skills as a direct result of my time at Swinburne Online to start my teaching life positively and prepared. I found that the knowledge that I was building throughout my studies supported my assistance in the classroom and led to being well prepared during placements.’

Swinburne Online graduate

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Advancing your career in early childhood education

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Three ways Swinburne Online supports pre-service teachers during placement

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Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) | UniSC | University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

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Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)

The early years of children’s lives are incredibly important. This nationally accredited program focuses on children aged 0-8 years. Develop competence and expertise to contribute to young children's sense of agency, wellbeing and learning capabilities.

In this program you will:

• Learn the importance of wellbeing, play and supportive environments in early learning
• Qualify to work and lead in childcare, kindergarten and primary school (focusing on Prep to Year 3)
• Connect knowledge and practice through Supervised Professional Experiences in a range of early childhood and school settings

CRICOS code

Entry threshold, indicative fees, indicative 2024 fees (a$).

Career outcomes

Program detail, entry requirements, fees and scholarships, career opportunities.

• Children's advocate
• Early Childhood centre leader/director
• Early Childhood teacher
• Education consultant
• Primary school teacher
• Youth support

Memberships

Graduates may be eligible to become members of:

• Early Childhood Australia
• Queensland College of Teachers

• Blended Learning
• Dr Anne Drabble

Introductory courses (8) 96 units

EDU101 Human Development and Learning EDU103 Teaching with Technology EDU109 Professional Experience: Play and Pedagogy in Early Learning EDU110 Engagement and Behaviour in Early Learning EDU112 Professional Experience: Communities and Partnerships EDU115 Creative Expression and Play through the Arts EDU118 Foundations of Numeracy EDU119 English Language and Literacy

Developing courses (10) 120 units

EDU206 Sustainability Through Play and Pedagogy EDU208 Professional Experience: Learning Theories in Early Learning EDU209 Teaching Mathematics in the Early Years EDU212 Teaching Science in the Early Years EDU213 Teaching English: Curriculum and Pedagogy EDU214 Teaching Arts in the Early Years EDU216 Teaching HPE in the Early Years EDU217 Professional Experience: Evidence Based Decision Making in Early Learning EDU218 Inclusive Practices and Intervention in Early Learning SCS203 Introduction to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education

Graduate courses (14) 168 units

EDU300 Assessing Learning EDU308 Professional Experience: Differentiated Practice EDU309 Teaching Science in Primary Schools EDU316 Teaching HASS in Primary School EDU339 Professional Experience: Curriculum Approaches and Pedagogies EDU340 Teaching Reading and Writing EDU344 Leadership and Advocacy in Early Learning EDU361 Teaching English: Language, Literature and Literacy EDU400 Teaching Primary School Mathematics EDU408 Professional Experience: Teacher Identity and Professional Practice EDU410 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Perspectives in Learning and Teaching EDU415 Teacher as Researcher EDU421 Using Data for Learning EDU423 Reflective Practices in Early Learning

Note: Program structures are subject to change. Not all UniSC courses are available on every UniSC campus.

This study sequence reflects the current program structure. Continuing students must follow their commencing structure, which can be found in the   previous student handbooks .

(Sunshine Coast) Semester 1 commencement (February)

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Adjusted ATARs are a calculation of a student's ATAR + eligible adjustment factors and are used to determine admission. The raw ATAR is the student's rank before any adjustments are applied.

Personal statement requirement

As part of your application, you are required to complete an online questionnaire to demonstrate your motivation for, and understanding of, the program and profession. In the questionnaire, you will be asked to rank a series of statements in order of what you think is most to least important. You will also need to write a 600-1000 word personal statement on why you think you would make a great teacher, and why influencing the future appeals to you. After you have submitted an application for this program, you will be contacted with further information about the written statement and how to complete your application.

More information is on the  QTAC website.

For entry into most USC undergraduate degree programs, you need to have completed a minimum level of education similar to successful completion of Australian Year 12 with good grades.

Further studies, for example, a semester or more at college or university, can also be considered for entry and may give you credit transfer towards a degree.

Some examples of upper secondary qualifications and a guide to the minimum grades that USC will consider are listed  here . These are minimum requirements and do not guarantee entry. Some programs may require higher grades. Alternative qualifications may also be considered on a case by case basis.

If your qualification (grouped by country) is not listed, send the qualification transcripts with your application form to the International Office  for assessment.

English language requirements

You will also need to meet the English language requirements for this program. If you do not meet the minimum requirements, you may be able to enrol in our English Language Programs to reach the required level for most of UniSC’s programs (exceptions apply to non-standard English requirement programs).

Minimum entry threshold

Applicants must meet the minimum ATAR/Rank.

Post admission requirements

Students must obtain a Blue Card (or link their existing Blue Card to UniSC) prior to commencing Professional Experience. Applications for a Blue Card should be submitted at least 12 weeks prior to the PEx start date.

Blue Cards are free-of-charge for Education students when applying through the School of Education and Tertiary Access at UniSC. Students will also need to successfully complete the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education students. For further information on the test, including sample test questions and registration information, please visit the Australian Council of Educational Research (ACER) website.

Additional entry information

Applicants must demonstrate non-academic capabilities as per Personal Statement requirement. Applicants from a non-English speaking background must attain an IELTS score of at least 7.5 with a minimum of 8.0 in speaking and listening and 7.0 in all other subtests. Refer to English language requirements .

English (Units 3 and 4, C); General Maths, Maths Methods or Specialist Maths (Units 3 and 4, C); a General science subject (Units 3 and 4, C)

In order to graduate you must:

• Successfully complete 384 units as outlined in the Program Structure
• Complete a minimum of 95 days of Professional Experience 
• Successfully complete the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education students. FFurther information on the test, including sample test questions and registration information, please visit the  Australian Council of Educational Research website .

To commence field education placement you must:

• Hold a valid Blue Card, throughout the duration of your program, issued by the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian (CCYPCG). You should allow 12 weeks for CCYPCG to issue the card. Note: students who do not possess a valid Blue Card will be unable to complete the field education component of their program and will be unable to meet graduation requirements
• Have a National Criminal History check (by Queensland Police Service or other state/territory authority)
• Be willing to travel to attend field education placements
• Please note, while every endeavour will be made to place students for field education placements in a given semester, this is not guaranteed, and students may need to enrol at a later time should a position at an agency be unavailable in the preferred semester
• Visit  Education - Professional Experience (PEx)  for more information regarding requirements for placements

It is no longer a requirement that students in Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Please note that some placement host organisations have chosen to continue requiring COVID-19 vaccination. If you are not fully vaccinated, it is important to know that placement opportunities in your program may be limited and may result in a delay to your placement.

UniSC still strongly recommends that all students undertaking placement are fully vaccinated and provide evidence of this vaccination status to the University.

Program notes

• EDU423 and EDU415 MUST be studied in your final semester of study with your final Professional Experience ( EDU408 )
• Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per semester (normally 4 courses) and following the recommended study sequence
• The unit value of all courses is 12 units unless otherwise specified
• It is each students responsibility to enrol correctly according to your course requisites, program rules and requirements and be aware of the academic calendar dates
• Cross-institutional study is not permitted for the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)
• Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods which may include essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations
• The  Study Overseas Program is not currently available to Early Childhood students
• Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa
• Refer to the Managing your progression page for help in understanding your program structure, reviewing your progress and planning remaining courses.

Prospective students must consider the Inherent Academic Requirements before applying to study this program.

Refer to Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) - Inherent Academic Requirements

UniSC strongly supports the rights of all people to pursue studies. The University embraces diversity and endeavours to accommodate all students.

What are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs)?

The IARs of a program are those fundamental skills, capabilities and knowledge that students must be able to demonstrate in order to achieve the essential learning outcomes of the program, while maintaining the academic integrity of that program.

Students with a disability or chronic health condition may be able to have reasonable adjustments made to enable them to meet these requirements.

UniSC is committed to making reasonable adjustments to teaching and learning, assessment, placement and other activities to enable students to participate in their program.

Reasonable adjustments must not fundamentally change the nature of the IAR.

Consideration is given to a student's cultural and religious background/beliefs, which may impact on participation in their program or course. For further information contact Student Support .

Why are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs) important?

IARs ensure the academic integrity of a program is maintained and preserves the University's learning, assessment and accreditation processes. They must be met by all students.

How does this affect you?

To successfully complete a program at UniSC, you need to be able to meet all the Inherent Academic Requirements.

If you are applying for a program, you should read the IAR statement carefully to ensure you are able to meet them.

If you have a disability or chronic health condition, contact a UniSC Disability Advisor to talk about the adjustments that may be put in place so you can meet the requirements.

Headstart Program - Years 10 to 12

The Headstart program lets you study uni subjects while you’re still in high school. If you successfully complete two Headstart courses, you’ll get a selection rank that you could use to get into uni.

Early Offer Guarantee scheme - Year 12

The Early Offer Guarantee scheme enables Year 12 students to be offered a place at UniSC on the basis of their Principal's recommendation.

Prior study or work experience

• have completed Year 12 (no matter how long ago)
• have a TAFE/VET qualification
• have relevant work experience, or
• have studied at university before (even if you didn’t complete your studies)

You may be eligible for a selection rank, which can help you get into uni. For more detailed information selection ranks and how applications are assessed, visit Admissions explained .

Tertiary Preparation Pathway

If you don’t have qualifications or experience that will give you a selection rank, you can complete the Tertiary Preparation Pathway as a stepping stone into most degrees. You can also use TPP to complete subject prerequisites.

If you haven’t studied in a while, TPP is also a great way to brush up on essential study skills like critical reading, assignment writing and referencing.

It can also build your knowledge and confidence in the subject areas you’ll need for your degree, like science or maths. TPP courses are fee-free for eligible domestic students.

Indigenous Direct Entry and Access Scheme (IDEAS)

You may be eligible for direct entry into a UniSC degree based on your potential to succeed, under UniSC’s Indigenous Direct Entry and Access Scheme (IDEAS) . All you have to do is complete an online application through our website.

High-school leavers completing year 12 are not   eligible, and  must apply  through  QTAC .

Commonwealth supported places

Commonwealth supported places are substantially subsidised by the Australian Government so that students only pay 'student contribution" amounts. The student contribution amount will vary depending on the course you are studying and how much funding the Government provides.

If you accept a  Commonwealth supported place  you are a Commonwealth supported student. As a Commonwealth supported student you must make a contribution towards the cost of your education (unless you are enrolled in Enabling or  Tertiary Preparation Pathway  courses) with the majority of the cost met by the Commonwealth Government.

Commonwealth supported places are only available to domestic students. As a domestic student you are entitled to a Commonwealth supported place in an eligible program if you:

• meet the citizenship and residency requirements
• complete an electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form (eCAF)
• meet the University's entry requirements for your chosen program.

International fee-paying places

Annual tuition fees are based on 2024 rates and the equivalent full-time student load as per the recommended study sequence in the relevant program.

Actual fees payable are based on the actual enrolment load in a teaching period (excluding Study Abroad and Postgraduate Qualifying Pathway).

All prices quoted are in Australian Dollars (A$).

Domestic applicants apply for admission through the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC). Some applicants may be eligible to apply direct to UniSC if they meet certain criteria.

Find out about how to apply and key application closing dates .

No matter what kind of future you’re looking for, you can find it at UniSC. Our programs offer the choice and flexibility you need to get started on any career goal.

Visit How to apply for simple steps to submit your international student application and start your UniSC experience today.

Need help with submitting your application?

UniSC has appointed representatives to assist you with submitting your application and provide information about the steps you need to complete to begin your studies. You can contact a UniSC Representative in your area.

Any questions? Contact us .

Student story

“I am first in my family to attend and now graduate from university – something I never imagined was possible.”

Education for a better tomorrow

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Need advice on what to study or how to apply? 

Our student central team can help..

Call us  +61 7 5430 2890 Email us  [email protected] For locations and opening hours, visit Student Central .

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You are a domestic student if you are:

• an Australian citizen
• an Australian Permanent residency visa holder
• an Australian permanent humanitarian visa holder
• a New Zealand citizen

You are an International student if you are:

• a Temporary Resident (visa status) of Australia
• a Permanent Resident (visa status) of New Zealand
• a Resident or Citizen of any other country

STUDY LOCATION

At UniSC, programs are offered either on one of our campuses or fully online.

Full-time study is enrolling in three or more courses per study period, while part-time study is one or two courses per study period.

Some programs are offered as part-time only.

DOMESTIC STUDENTS

As a domestic student each study period you have the choice to switch between full-time and part-time study. You can choose to study either on campus or online, depending on the program offering.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

As an international student studying on a Student visa, you must study on campus and enrol full-time to finish your program within the set duration. This usually means enrolling in four courses per study period.

If you are an international student studying on any other visa type or if you are residing outside of Australia, you may study online and/or part-time.

Questions? Ask us anything about studying this program. Alternatively, contact Student Central with any student-related enquiries.

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Become an early childhood teacher

This information relates to teachers delivering specific learning programs, usually within long day care or kindergarten services.

Courses and qualifications

All long day care and kindergarten services with children under school age must have access to a qualified early childhood teacher or have one in attendance at the service.

Visit the  Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) website if you are already studying or have finished your course and want to check it against the national requirements. A fee is charged to have your qualifications assessed if they do not appear on the lists of approved qualifications.

Course requirements

Studying education at university level (e.g. a Bachelor degree) is usually required if you want to become an early childhood teacher.

You should choose a course on the ACECQA list of approved early childhood teaching qualifications .

You can read about tertiary entrance .

Search for courses at your chosen university or with the  Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC). Once you have chosen your course, you must apply through QTAC for entry.

Already a registered primary or secondary teacher?

If you hold a primary or secondary teaching qualification, a teacher registration in Australia and an ACECQA approved certificate III level (or higher) early childhood education and care qualification from ACECQA's list of approved qualifications, you will be recognised as an ' equivalent early childhood teacher '.

Jobs are usually advertised in newspapers and online job sites.

Find  childcare contacts for advice on job opportunities and industry news.

Registration

Registration is not compulsory for early childhood teachers working in early childhood services in Queensland, other than in the case of primary or secondary teachers with an ACECQA approved certificate III level (or higher) early childhood education and care qualification. However, any teacher employed in a Queensland school (including Prep to Year 3 teachers) does need to be registered with the Queensland College of Teachers .

You must have a  blue card to work with children in Queensland. This involves a police check. A fee is charged to apply.

Note: This blue card is not recognised anywhere else in Australia nor are Working With Children Checks issued interstate recognised in Queensland.