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Graduate Certificate in Education (Early Childhood)

Graduate Certificate

Course snapshot

Domestic snapshot

  • Course abbreviation

    GradCertEd(EC)

  • Course code

    1008500

  • Credit points

    48

  • Equivalent units

    4

  • Indicative Fee

    Commonwealth supported

Overview

Early childhood education has a profound effect on the development of children and skilled educators in this area are in high demand as the sector continues to experience very strong growth. (Job Outlook, 2020).

This course is ideal for Bachelor graduates from any discipline looking to enter early childhood education, or those seeking to change careers and enter this field.

It provides an understanding of the key areas of early childhood education and care, and an introduction to the theory, principles and practices that best support children's learning and development.

Delivered fully online in flexible mode, the course is the first step on a pathway to becoming a fully qualified early childhood teacher. Successful completion of this certificate provides guaranteed entry and up to four units of advanced standing into the professionally accredited Graduate Diploma of Education (Early Childhood).

Course Learning Outcome

Exercise critical analysis, problem solving, and decision making in Early Childhood educational based practice

Demonstrate cognitive, technical, and creative skills to investigate, analyse, and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts, and theories

Demonstrate a knowledge of social responsibility, ethics and legal principles consistent with what is expected of an Early Childhood professional working in a learning community with all stakeholders

Demonstrate an evidence based understanding and knowledge of the pedagogy for effective Early Childhood educational practice

Demonstrate a commitment to personal and professional development through self-directed learning and reflective practice

Demonstrate an advanced ability to communicate and interpret evidence based research which inform professional decision making

Apply and integrate an understanding of social, indigenous and cultural diversity, and respect for the identity of all persons, in local and international contexts

The course comprises three core units:
  • Principles and Practice in Early Childhood Education
  • Children, Families and Communities
  • Leadership and Advocacy in Early Childhood
and a choice of one of the following units:
  • Professional Experience in Early Childhood Education II: Infants and Toddlers
  • Strengthening Young People's Social and Emotional Wellbeing.

 

Location Teaching period UAC code QTAC code
Online Session 1, Session 2 N/A N/A

Requirements

We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, our team will work with you to find the best pathway option.

Before applying, make sure you double check all entry requirements, gather required documentation and review the University’s Rules Relating to Awards, noting any specifics listed below.

Entry requirements

A three (3) year bachelor qualification or equivalent work experience.

Credit for prior learning

Successful completion of this course provides guaranteed entry and up to four units of advanced standing into the Graduate Diploma in Education (Early Childhood) or the Master of Teaching where candidates meet the course specific professional accreditation admission requirements.

Course requirements

To be eligible to receive the Graduate Certificate in Education (Early Childhood) students must complete the equivalent of 4 single-weighted units (48 credit points) comprising:

  • 3 core units (36 credit points); and
  • 1 elective unit (12 credit points)

 

Course structure

Unit Code Unit Title Notes

Core Units
TCHR5003 Principles and Practice in Early Childhood Education
TCHR2002 Children, Families and Communities
TCHR3004 Leadership and Advocacy in Early Childhood

Electives
Select one unit from the following:
TCHR6001 Professional Experience in Early Childhood Education II: Infants and Toddlers Note 1
WELF6001 Strengthening Young People's Social and Emotional Wellbeing