Overview

The Master of Teaching (Early Childhood) (Birth to Five) offered by the Crown Institute of Higher Education (CIHE) is a 2-year full-time postgraduate program designed for students who wish to become qualified early childhood teachers in Australia.

This degree prepares graduates to teach and lead learning for children from birth to five years, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience in early education settings.

The program is ACECQA-accredited (Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority) and provides eligibility for registration as an early childhood teacher in Australia. Students gain deep insights into child development, curriculum design, and inclusive education while completing professional teaching placements.

Key Features

• Recognized by ACECQA as a teacher-qualifying program under Australia’s National Quality Framework.

• Focuses on child development, pedagogy, curriculum planning, and inclusive education.

• Integrates theory with professional experience placements in early childhood centers.

• Emphasizes play-based learning, creativity, digital literacy, and leadership in education.

• Builds strong communication, critical thinking, and reflective practice skills essential for teachers.

• Designed for both education graduates and professionals from other fields seeking a teaching career.

Admission Requirements

Academic:

• A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized university in any discipline.

• Applicants without prior education studies will complete foundation teaching units.

English Language:

• IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0), or

• PTE Academic 58 overall (no band below 50), or equivalent.

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants may need to undertake a pre-admission interview to assess communication and suitability for teaching.

• Students must meet Working with Children Check (WWCC) requirements before placements.

Learning Approach

The program blends interactive workshops, seminars, online learning, and professional experience placements.

Students explore evidence-based teaching strategies, child psychology, and contemporary education frameworks.

Assessments include lesson planning, reflective journals, research essays, and practical teaching evaluations during placements.

Professional placements allow students to apply classroom knowledge in real early learning environments, ensuring graduates are confident and job-ready educators.

Graduate Attributes

Graduates of the Master of Teaching (Early Childhood) will:

• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of early childhood learning and development.

• Design, implement, and evaluate inclusive, play-based learning experiences.

• Communicate effectively with children, families, and professional colleagues.

• Apply ethical and reflective practices in teaching.

• Lead and contribute to the advancement of early childhood education.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program are eligible for teacher registration and can work across a range of early childhood settings in Australia and internationally.

Career paths include:

• Early Childhood Teacher

• Educational Leader

• Preschool / Kindergarten Teacher

• Curriculum Coordinator

• Childcare Centre Director / Manager

• Early Learning Consultant or Trainer

Graduates may also pursue doctoral or research studies in education or child development.