Graduate Certificate of Education (Early Childhood Studies)

About the course

This graduate certificate is designed for qualified primary or secondary teachers who want to extend their qualifications into early childhood education (birth to pre-primary/age 8). It leads to an ACECQA-recognised qualification and is structured to suit working teachers, with practicums scheduled in school holidays or within your own workplace where applicable. The Graduate Certificate in early childhood teaching can be completed in 8 months. The programme enhances curriculum leadership, pedagogical innovation, and educational policy understanding for professional educators.

Career outcome

Graduates can work in early childhood education settings with children from birth to eight years, including early learning services and the early years of schooling. The course supports teachers seeking to broaden their scope into early childhood roles and can strengthen pathways into pedagogical leadership and school leadership opportunities. This Graduate Certificate supports professional practice in the early childhood education and care sector. Preparing graduates for education leadership, instructional design, and advanced teaching specialist roles.

Living Costs in Sydney**

Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 17 - 22	Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 2,207 - 2,918	Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,599 - 2,115
Transportation (Daily) A$ 9 - 10	Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 219 - 290

Average Salary***

*Source: QS World University Subjects Rankings (2026)

**Source: numbeo.com

***Source: PayScale.com (2026)