A pathway into Early Childhood Education
Our early childhood education (ECE) programs prepare you to support children’s learning, wellbeing and development in professional early learning settings.
You will study in a learning environment designed to build confidence, strengthen professional practice and support your long-term development as an educator.
ECE is a growing and essential part of Australia’s education and community services sector. Graduates may pursue professional roles across a range of early learning settings, subject to relevant regulatory and professional requirements.
Explore our programs if you are:
- – starting your career in ECE
- – looking for a career change
- – upgrading your qualifications in ECE
Talk to us about studying
Share a few details below and our team will contact you to discuss courses, entry pathways and study options that suit your goals and circumstances.
Featured programs
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to 5)
Master of Teaching (Early Childhood) (Birth to Five)
Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood Education
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Why study early childhood education?
Early childhood educators play a vital role in supporting children’s learning, development and wellbeing during the most important years of life.
Develop professional knowledge of early learning and development, learn how to create inclusive, safe and engaging learning environments, strengthen communication and professional practice with children, families and communities and build confidence to work ethically and responsibly in early childhood settings.
Placements at CIHE Australia
Professional placements form an important part of your early childhood education degree. You will complete structured and supervised placement experiences in approved settings as part of designated subjects.
Placements support the development of professional practice and are aligned to your course learning outcomes. We will support you throughout your placements to ensure appropriate guidance, monitoring and academic oversight.
Entry pathways and flexible study
We welcome students from a wide range of backgrounds. You can get started if you are a school leaver, have previously completed study (e.g. at the certificate or diploma level) or have relevant industry or professional experience in ECE.
In certain cases, you may also be eligible to apply for course credit. Each application is assessed individually.
Why study with us?
Education for diverse journeys
Affordable fees, scholarships, and flexible study that supports diverse pathways into higher education.
In demand skills, real world impact
Study in high-demand fields and build practical skills and experiences that lead to meaningful careers.
Industry-connected learning
Industry informed programs and work-integrated learning to prepare you for the future of work.
Learning that’s personal
Small classes, workshop style teaching, and direct access to academics and industry experts.
Where you belong
A warm and inclusive community where you are supported to grow – academically and personally.
Grow with a global outlook
We are shaped by diverse voices and perspectives that help our students grow in a globally connected world.
Take the next step
Plan your return to study with a CIHE course advisor.
FAQs
No. Some students begin their studies without prior experience, while others are already working in early childhood settings. The course is designed to support both new and experienced educators.
Yes. Many students study early childhood education to formalise their experience to meet professional qualification requirements. Prior study and relevant experience industry may be considered for course credit to shorten the length of your studies. Each application is assessed individually to ensure alignment with learning outcomes.
Placements are organised through CIHE Australia in approved early childhood education settings. You will be supported by placement co-ordinators and academic staff throughout your placement.
Yes. Many students balance study with work and family responsibilities. CIHE Australia provides flexible learning options (e.g. part-time study or night classes) and academic support to help you manage your study and life commitments.
Yes. CIHE Australia is an accredited higher education provider and is registered with TEQSA – Australia’s national higher education regulator. Our degrees are aligned to the Australian Qualifications Framework standards for quality education.
CIHE Australia’s early childhood courses have been accredited by the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) which means our courses are recognised as an approved early childhood qualification for Early Childhood Teachers under the National Quality Framework.
Every State/Territory in Australia has its own Teacher Registration Authority. You can find a link to the authority which covers your location here. For Example, in New South Wales, the Authority is the NSW Educational Standards Authority (NESA). For graduates with qualifications from Birth to Five, NESA does not do its own assessment but refers to the assessment of the professional body which is the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). Therefore, your first step is to seek accreditation with ACECQA before applying for registration with NESA. You can apply for accreditation with ACECQA here.
Education that moves you forward
A rewarding career awaits.