Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This degree focuses on child development from birth to five years, curriculum and pedagogy for the early years, family and community partnerships, and inclusive practice for diverse learners. Core study areas typically include:

• Foundations of early childhood learning – theories of child development, attachment, temperament and brain development in the early years.
• Curriculum and pedagogy – play‑based learning, emergent curriculum, planning and assessment for infants, toddlers and preschoolers.
• Health, safety and wellbeing – promotion of physical and mental wellbeing, nutrition, safe sleep, and developmentally appropriate practice.
• Inclusive education and special needs – identification, adaptation and collaboration to support children with additional needs and diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Professional practice and ethics – reflective practice, professional standards, policy and the role of ethics and Catholic social teaching in education contexts.
• Research and assessment – introductory research methods, using observation and assessment to inform teaching and ongoing evaluation of programs.
• Practicum and professional experience – multiple supervised placements across settings such as long day care, community centres and regulated early learning services, allowing students to apply theory to practice and build a professional portfolio.

The program is usually structured over three to four years full‑time with a mix of on‑campus lectures, tutorials and block or ongoing placement experience. Electives or specialisation units may be offered to explore topics such as leadership, family support, or cultural competence.

Entry requirements

Typical entry pathways include completion of a recognised secondary qualification (for example Year 12 or equivalent) or successful completion of a recognised tertiary bridging program. Entry often considers:

• Academic achievement in secondary studies (ATAR or equivalent) or an approved alternative such as diploma qualifications or recognised prior learning;
• Competency in English language; international applicants may be required to meet English language proficiency standards;
• Relevant background checks and clearances such as a working with children check and police/vetting requirements;
• Up‑to‑date immunisation status as required for placement in early childhood settings;
• Some campuses or intakes may request a personal statement, referee reports, or an interview to assess suitability for work with young children;
• Mature‑age applicants or those with vocational experience in early childhood may be considered through alternative entry and credit transfer arrangements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to work directly with young children in a variety of early years settings. Common career paths include:

• Early childhood teacher in long day care, community preschool or early learning centres focused on birth to five years;
• Room leader or centre coordinator progressing into leadership and management roles within early childhood services;
• Specialist roles such as inclusion support worker, family engagement officer or early intervention support;
• Policy, advocacy and program development roles with community organisations, non‑government bodies and government departments focused on early childhood;
• Further study pathways into postgraduate education, leadership, research or allied health disciplines that work with young children and families.

Graduates typically enter a regulated profession, and career development may include registration or accreditation requirements that vary between Australian states and territories.

Why study at Australian Catholic University

Australian Catholic University offers a program that emphasises both high‑quality academic preparation and extensive professional experience in real early childhood settings. ACU is known for small‑group teaching and a strong focus on ethical, inclusive practice with opportunities to learn from experienced early childhood practitioners and researchers.

Key benefits include access to supervised practicum placements across diverse service types, curriculum informed by current research in early childhood development, and student support services that help with professional readiness. The university’s values emphasise respect, social justice and community engagement, which are integrated into courses that prepare graduates to work respectfully with children, families and communities.