Central Queensland University

What you'll study

This degree covers the theory and practice of early childhood education from birth to the early primary years. Core topics typically include child development and learning theory, curriculum design and pedagogies for play-based learning, literacy and numeracy foundations for young children, behaviour guidance and trauma-aware practice, inclusive education and supporting children with additional needs, family and community engagement, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in early childhood.

Program delivery combines campus-based teaching, online learning units and sustained professional experience placements in early childhood settings. You will undertake sequential supervised practica that place you in long day care, kindergarten/preschool, community-based programs and occasional early primary classrooms, allowing you to apply curriculum planning, observation and assessment, and professional communication skills in real-world contexts.

Typical subjects and learning experiences

• Foundations of child development and learning across the early years
• Play-based curriculum design and assessment for learning
• Language, literacy and numeracy in early childhood
• Inclusive practices, special needs and early intervention approaches
• Partnerships with families, communities and First Nations perspectives
• Professional practice, ethics and leadership in early childhood settings
• Practicum sequences with reflective professional portfolios

Entry requirements

Entry is typically via completion of secondary school (or equivalent) with an Australian university entrance qualification, or through recognised prior tertiary study. Applicants are selected on the basis of prior academic results and demonstration of suitability for the profession; some campuses may require an interview or submission of a personal statement.

Applicants with vocational qualifications or previous study in early childhood may be eligible for credit. International applicants must provide evidence of English language proficiency at the level required for teacher education by the university and by the relevant state or territory registration authority.

Successful applicants will need to meet professional requirements for placement, such as a current working with children check (or equivalent), a national police check, and compliance with health and immunisation requirements; these are mandatory for undertaking professional experience in early childhood settings.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for professional roles in early childhood and early learning settings, including kindergarten/preschool teacher, centre director or room leader in long day care, family day care coordinator, and inclusion support officer. Other career directions include roles in community-based programs, early intervention services, curriculum coordination, early years policy and advocacy, and further study in special education or leadership.

The degree also provides a pathway to postgraduate study for those seeking specialist qualifications or teacher registration in different jurisdictions.

Why study at Central Queensland University

Central Queensland University offers a strong emphasis on practical, profession-ready training with extensive regional and community partnerships that provide diverse placement opportunities, including in rural and remote communities. The course is delivered with flexible learning modes to suit on-campus and distance students, supported by experienced academic staff who have current practice in early childhood settings.

CQU provides student support services for placements, academic skills and career development, and prioritises culturally responsive practice and engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives across the curriculum — important for educators working in diverse Australian communities.