Early childhood teachers are in higher demand than ever. Whether you are looking to take your first step into this rewarding sector, or you are an experienced early childhood educator looking to become a four-year qualified teacher, UNE's Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education and Care) is for you. We understand that many of our students are in remote or regional areas, which makes finding professional experience placements a challenge. UNE supports students throughout the placement process from start to finish, and for those working in the industry already, most of the placements in this course can be completed in the early learning service where you work, as long as your service caters for babies and meets the National Quality Standard.
This course is designed to meet the growing need for qualified early childhood teachers who share a genuine interest in being an agent for children's development. Accredited by the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA), UNE's Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education and Care) is uniquely designed to future proof your career with organisational leadership, contemporary pedagogies and interpersonal skills that are highly valued in a variety of careers. You can study this course with no prior Early Childhood Education (ECE) qualifications or experience (subject to meeting admission requirements). Alternatively, if you have prior ECE qualification/s and relevant professional experience, you may be able to reduce the length and cost of your study by entering at 3rd year or 4th year level, receiving Advanced Standing for the first 2 or 3 years.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
October 2026
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
June 2027
This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule A: You meet the following entry requirements:
You have completed a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (AQF Level 5) or equivalent. Your Diploma must be approved by the Australian Childrens Education & Care Authority (ACECQA).
You must also meet at least one of the following entry requirements:
After completion of your Diploma, you have undertaken a minimum of 1 year of full-time (or part-time equivalent) early childhood workplace experience as a room leader.
OR after completion of your Diploma, you have undertaken a minimum of 2 years of full-time (or part-time equivalent) early childhood workplace experience as an early childhood teacher assistant/aid, family daycare accredited provider, or an accredited before and after school carer.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule B: You have completed a three-year Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7) in Early Childhood. Your Bachelor degree must be approved by the Australian Childrens Education & Care Authority (ACECQA).
If you have not completed professional experience with the Birth-2 age group you may be admitted to this course, but must complete the unit PREX310 Professional Experience Birth to 2 Years (10 days) in addition to the standard Course Structure (Program of Study).
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
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UNE is the only Australian public university awarded the maximum 5 stars for Overall Experience 20 years in a row by the Good Universities Guide.
