Applications now open
The online Bachelor in Early Childhood Education provides you with a path to leadership. Influenced by our industry connections, our curriculum delivers a dynamic learning experience linking theory with practice.
- The School of Education develops graduates who are equipped with practical knowledge and skills which are informed by research and practice.
- This course will assist you in understanding how the brain works during learning to develop your skills in understanding effective learning and managing classrooms to ensure social equity is core to your development as a teacher.
- Gain access to the most up-to-date curriculum resources, all scaffolded across your degree, giving you the opportunity to build your skills as you become more experienced.
- The Online Bachelor of Early Childhood Education will equip you with the strategies you need to ensure that every student succeeds
- This course will support meaningful connections with the community with a focus on learning opportunities that take place within schools and the community.
Entry requirements and pathways
Recent school leavers
Credit for previous study (advanced standing)
Credit for previous study (advanced standing) is the recognition of prior study or learning that can be counted towards a qualification. This can reduce the number of subjects required to complete your course. The amount of credit received depends on the level and relevance of your previous study and the number of subjects completed.
The University will designate courses where there is only admission into Year 1 of the course. In these cases, there is limited credit. See list of limited entry courses.
To check if this course is available for credit, please visit the Advanced standing webpage.
Pathways
A pathway is simply an alternative way for a student to get into their dream course - if direct entry isn't an option.
We've listed the 'pathway method and outcome' - which is how you can transfer into the area you want to study, assuming you meet the entry requirements (e.g. minimum WAM). You'll also find an estimate of how long it could take you to graduate, from the start of your pathway to the completion of your dream degree.
| Preferred course | Alternative pathway courses | Pathway method & outcome | Years to graduate including the Pathway course (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education | Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education | Graduate and apply for entry into third year of preferred course | 4 years |
Questions about the course?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
What you'll study
Work-Based Learning
Compulsory placements (Work Based Learning)
During this course, you will participate in one or more supervised Work Based Learning (WBL) placements designed to allow you to practice newly acquired skills, behaviours and knowledge while integrating theory with practice. The placements will immerse you in professional work culture, enabling you to develop and further enhance your skills. WBL provides you with the opportunity to gain valuable industry experience at one or more of our local, interstate or international industry partners or agencies. WBL placements will generally be arranged by the College based Placements Operation Team or Experiential Learning Team at La Trobe University. The number of hours undertaken can vary considerably, depending on the requirements of the course. Students may incur additional costs and it may be necessary to travel or relocate to complete a specific placement. Please refer to the individual subject entries for more information.
See La Trobe University Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options. The delivery of this course can vary between campuses.
View course information for Online
Questions about the course?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education course and career outcomes
However you choose to structure your study, La Trobe recognises your hard work. Here are the pathways you could follow as you move through your course.
Year 2
After completing 2 years of full-time study
You can exit with an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education
Year 4
After completing 4 years of full-time study
You can exit with a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
Course intended learning outcomes
- Critically analyse research, policies and theories and apply to early childhood education practices
- Apply theoretical and practical knowledge and skills relevant to early childhood education
- Create dynamic programs and practices which reflect the diversity of complex early childhood education settings
- Engage with contemporary issues to generate equitable and sustainable practices
- Engage actively as ethical and professional agents of change
- Apply relevant information and communication technologies to create innovative practices
- Generate and apply inquiry based research to enhance learning
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education career opportunities
Graduates will be well placed to find work in early learning centres, kindergartens, preschools and early intervention programs.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education is approved by the Australian Children's Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). Graduates of the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education may be eligible to apply for registration with the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) as an early childhood teacher. Professional registration may be subject to additional or ongoing requirements beyond completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.
Questions about the course?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
Fees and scholarships
Estimated course fees for domestic students
Estimated fees per year (2025):
Indicative based on 2024 fees
$4,627 (CSP) per 120 credit points.
Commonwealth supported places (CSP):
The estimated fees are indicative only. The tuition fees you pay will depend on the subjects you choose to study, with each subject having its own cost. In some cases, your course fees may be higher than the indicated fees because of the subjects you choose.
To get a more accurate estimation, you can use the fee calculator to calculate your course fees and study load (EFTSL: Equivalent full-time study load)
How your fees are calculated
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the subjects you choose to study, with each subject having its own cost. This estimated cost is provided as a guide only – the actual cost will vary depending on:
- the subjects you choose
- the time it takes to do your course based on your study load (full-time/part-time)
- approved credit for prior learning
If part-time study is permitted, your annual fees will be proportionally lower based on the number of subjects taken per semester.
Fee help
Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
In a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), your tuition fees are subsidised by the Australian Government. Your share of the fee (the student contribution), is set each year by the government and is determined by the discipline areas (bands) of your individual subjects, not the overall course.
Learn more about Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP)
HECS-Help Loan
HECS-HELP is the Australian Government’s Higher Education Loan Program. It enables you to borrow the amount of your student contribution and then pay that loan back once you are in the workforce and earning at a specified level. A HECS-HELP loan is not means tested.
HECS-HELP is available to eligible Australian citizens and permanent humanitarian visa holders who are enrolled in a CSP. As a CSP student, you may be eligible to apply for a HECS-HELP loan, which allows you to defer payment of up to 100% of your student contribution.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available for both current and future students. Find out what La Trobe scholarship opportunities might be available to you. View all available scholarships
Note: You must first have an offer to study at La Trobe before you are eligible to apply for a La Trobe scholarship.
Scholarships that may be available for this course
Tertiary Access Payment (TAP) Program
Albury-Wodonga Campus, Bendigo Campus, Melbourne Campus, City Campus, Mildura Campus, Shepparton Campus – Future undergraduates, 1st year undergraduates, Australian Citizen, Humanitarian Visa, New Zealand Citizen, Permanent Resident
Full time enrolment and proof of relocation will be confirmed before payment is made into the recipient's bank account.
Questions about fees and scholarships?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
How to apply
Before you apply
If you are applying for multiple courses you will need to apply through UAC or VTAC (Semester 1 only). If you are applying for one course, you may be able to apply direct.
Applying for a Bachelor's degree
Current Year 12 students living in Victoria
Book a 1:1 consultation
If you’re a Year 12 student from Victoria, you’ll lodge an application via the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). Your application will then be assessed based on your Year 12 results when they’re released.
Current Year 12 students living in NSW
Find out how
If you’re a Year 12 student from New South Wales, you’ll lodge an application via UAC. Your application will then be assessed based on your Year 12 results when they’re released.
Ready to apply?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
Other courses you may like
COURSE
Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Online
COURSE
Associate Degree of Teacher Education
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent2 years full-time
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton
COURSE
Bachelor of Education
4 years full-time or part-time equivalent4 years full-time
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton
COURSE
Bachelor of Outdoor and Sustainability Education
3 years full-time or part-time equivalent3 years full-time
Bendigo
COURSE
Diploma of Teacher Education
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton
COURSE
Graduate Diploma in Education
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent1 year full-time
Melbourne (Bundoora)
COURSE
Master of Education
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent2 years full-time
Melbourne (Bundoora), Online
COURSE
Master of Teaching (Primary)
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent; 1.5 years accelerated2 years full-time; 1.5 years accelerated
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton, Sydney
COURSE
Master of Teaching (Secondary)
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent; 1.5 years accelerated2 years full-time; 1.5 years accelerated
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton, Sydney
COURSE
Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Online
COURSE
Associate Degree of Teacher Education
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent2 years full-time
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton
COURSE
Diploma of Teacher Education
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton
Overview
Key facts
| Award | Bachelor of Early Childhood Education |
|---|---|
| Start dates |
Indicative based on 2024 start dates LTU Term 2 (March 2025), LTU Term 4 (July 2025) |
| Duration | 2.5 years full-time or part-time equivalent; 2 years accelerated |
| Available locations | Online |
| Scholarships | View fees and scholarships |
| Prerequisite | Please refer to admission requirements for details |
| Fees |
Indicative based on 2024 fees Estimated cost per year if studying full time $4,627 (CSP) per 120 credit points.Actual fees may vary depending on subject choice; Learn more about Fees and scholarships. |
ATAR requirements
* based on the January 2025 ATAR profile
Online
Lowest selection rank N/A
Estimate your ATAR
ATAR calculator*N/A: Students not accepted in this category, NC: New course, N/P: Not published (includes categories with less than five students).
About the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
If you're an early childhood educator, La Trobe's Bachelor of Early Childhood Education allows you to upgrade your qualification and take the next step in your career.
Enjoy flexible learning that's designed to fit around your work and personal commitments. The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education is delivered entirely online, using virtual classrooms and meeting spaces; video and webinars; online learning modules and mobile learning apps.
This four-year degree includes 180 credit points of advanced standing for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, as well as relevant work experience. You'll complete a further 300 credit points to gain the Bachelor's qualification.
Build your skills and experience through supervised work-based learning (WBL) placements. You can also nominate to complete the WBL component in your place of employment, subject to the centre meeting the supervision requirements.
Graduate ready to build your career in learning centres, kindergartens, preschools or early intervention programs.
The qualification awarded on graduation is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) as Level 7 - Bachelor Degree.
Have questions?
Check when course applications close and find out how to apply directly or via VTAC.
Call 1300 135 045
Book a one-on-one
Book a consultation with us to get advice on your study options.
Ask a question
Submit a question online. We'll get back to you within the next business day.
Other courses you may like
COURSE
Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Online
COURSE
Associate Degree of Teacher Education
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent2 years full-time
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton
COURSE
Bachelor of Education
4 years full-time or part-time equivalent4 years full-time
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton
COURSE
Bachelor of Outdoor and Sustainability Education
3 years full-time or part-time equivalent3 years full-time
Bendigo
COURSE
Diploma of Teacher Education
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton
COURSE
Graduate Diploma in Education
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent1 year full-time
Melbourne (Bundoora)
COURSE
Master of Education
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent2 years full-time
Melbourne (Bundoora), Online
COURSE
Master of Teaching (Primary)
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent; 1.5 years accelerated2 years full-time; 1.5 years accelerated
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton, Sydney
COURSE
Master of Teaching (Secondary)
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent; 1.5 years accelerated2 years full-time; 1.5 years accelerated
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton, Sydney
COURSE
Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Online
COURSE
Associate Degree of Teacher Education
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent2 years full-time
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton
COURSE
Diploma of Teacher Education
1 year full-time or part-time equivalent
Melbourne (Bundoora), Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Mildura, Shepparton