Program Overview

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to 8)

The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to 8) is a nationally accredited degree that qualifies students to teach in both early childhood and junior primary school settings. This four-year full-time degree (or part-time equivalent) prepares students to support children's learning and development from birth through their foundational school years.

Overview

The program focuses on educational theory and practice, with extensive professional placements that start in the first year. Students will develop skills in relationship-building, educational planning, creative teaching, and effective use of technology. The degree is accredited by the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) and supports graduates' eligibility to register as early childhood teachers in Australia.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to 8) can pursue a diverse range of career opportunities, including:

• Preschools and kindergartens
• Long day care and early learning centres
• Reception to Year 2 classrooms in primary schools
• Family day care environments
• Education and care services in both government and non-government sectors

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for admission, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Guaranteed Entry ATAR: 75.00
• No ATAR: Alternative entry options are available, including the STAT test and TAFE/VET qualifications
• GPA: 5.0
• TAFE/VET: Advanced Diploma or above
• English language requirements: IELTS overall 7.0, with no band less than 7.0, or Pearson overall 65

Program Structure

The degree consists of four years of study, with a combination of core topics and a Curriculum Specialisation Minor. The core topics include:

1. Year 1: Professional experience, philosophies of early childhood, expressive arts, pedagogies of belonging, health and physical education, partnerships, parents and participation, play, learning and development
2. Year 2: Inclusive education, language development, play and development, Indigenous pedagogy, early literacy and numeracy, Teaching Curriculum Specialisation Minor
3. Year 3: Professional experience, reading in the early years, mathematics, relational pedagogies in early childhood, discovering technologies, Teaching Curriculum Specialisation Minor
4. Year 4: Professional experience, writing in the early years, curriculum, programming and planning, leadership in early childhood, playing on country, supporting children on the autism spectrum, Teaching Curriculum Specialisation Minor

Accreditation and Professional Recognition

The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to 8) is accredited by the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). Graduates are eligible to register as early childhood teachers in Australia and can work in a variety of settings, including preschools, kindergartens, and primary schools.

Tuition Fees

The annual tuition fees for the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to 8) are:

• 2026: $4,738 (CSP)
• 2026: $35,700 (FFP)

Research Areas

Flinders University has a strong research focus in the area of early childhood education, with research areas including:

• Engineering and technology
• Health and medical
• People and society
• Science, environment and natural resources
• Emerging research - Defence

Support Services

Flinders University offers a range of support services for students, including:

• Academic advice and guidance
• Counselling
• Career guidance
• Assistance with placement arrangements

Inherent Requirements

The Australian Government has introduced the Literacy and Numeracy Test for all initial teacher education (ITE) students to ensure they have the high level of personal literacy and numeracy skills required of teachers. All students graduating from any ITE course in South Australia must have achieved the standard for both the literacy and numeracy components of the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education (LANTITE) to graduate.

English Language Pathways

If you don't meet the English language entry requirements, you can improve your English language proficiency through Flinders University Academy or approved English Language Instruction Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) providers.

Academic Program Pathways

If you don't meet the academic entry requirements, you can still gain entry to Flinders University through Flinders University Academy, with a range of diplomas, foundation, and English language courses available.

How to Apply

Applications are completed via SATAC. You can apply directly through Flinders University or an authorised agent in your country. If you are from one of the countries listed, you are required to apply via an education agent. If you reside onshore in Australia, you will not require an agent even if you are from the countries listed above.