Melbourne City Institute of Education

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

If you’re passionate about helping young children grow, learn and thrive, the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care offers the skills and knowledge to turn that passion into a meaningful career. This diploma prepares you not just to work in childcare but to lead.

You’ll gain the confidence to implement, evaluate and be creative with programs that support children’s learning across all areas—emotional, social, physical, and cognitive. You’ll also learn how to guide and support other educators in your team. 

With the growing demand for qualified educators across Australia, this diploma opens the door to a stable and fulfilling career. Whether you want to work in long day care, kindergartens, or community centres, your skills will be in demand—and you’ll be doing work that truly matters. 

Career Prospects

• Nominated Supervisor
• Early Childhood Educator
• Group, Team or Room Leader
• Early Childhood Centre Manager
• Early Childhood Centre Coordinator
• Educational Leader
• Early Childhood Educator

Facts

• There are currently 24,500 Child Care Centre Managers in Australia
• This occupation has considerable future growth of 21.8%
• Average weekly earnings are $1,494
• Currently 24,500 Child Care Centre Managers in Australia
• 72% of CCMs work full-time

Pathway to University

This program provides a direct pathway into Victoria University’s Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (reduced from 3 years to 2 years) or extended Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and Leadership (reduced from 4 years to 3 years), developing the skills and practical experience to set themselves apart.