Education (Early Childhood)

The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in early childhood education. This degree focuses on equipping future educators with the essential knowledge, practical skills, and professional attitudes required to promote young children's development, learning, and well-being. Throughout the course, students delve into a wide range of topics including child development theories, curriculum design, inclusive education, and classroom management, ensuring they are well-prepared to create supportive and engaging learning environments. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, offering students opportunities for hands-on experience through supervised placements in early childhood settings such as preschools, daycare centers, and kindergartens. These placements enable students to apply their learning in real-world contexts, develop their teaching competencies, and build confidence as early childhood educators. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, reflective practice, and evidence-based approaches to education, aligning with current standards and best practices in early childhood teaching. Additionally, students will explore contemporary issues such as diversity, cultural competence, and the importance of play in learning, equipping them to address the diverse needs of young children and their families. The program also emphasizes lifelong learning and professional development, preparing graduates not only for initial employment but also for ongoing growth within their careers. Upon completion, graduates will be eligible for registration with relevant educational authorities, opening doors to various roles within early childhood education sectors across Australia and internationally. The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) at USQ is committed to fostering passionate, innovative, and compassionate educators who are dedicated to making a positive difference during the crucial early years of children's lives.

Program structure

Courses to be studiedUnits

Core courses10

Plus 10 x Shared courses 10

Plus 8 x Specialisation Courses8

Plus 4 x Electives4

Plus 110 days of professional experience

Total    32

Course codeCourse name

Core Courses:  

CMS1000Communication and Scholarship

EDC1100Lifespan Development and Learning 

EDC1300Perspectives in Education

EDC1400Foundations of Curriculum and Pedagogy 

EDC2100Managing Supportive Learning Environments

EDC2200Indigenous Perspectives 

EDC2300Assessment and Reporting

EDC2400Diversity and Pedagogy

EDC3100ICT and Pedagogy

EDC4000Professional Placement and Portfolio

Shared Courses:

EDX1170Foundations of Language and Literacies

EDX1250The Arts Curriculum and Pedagogy

EDX1280Foundations of Numeracy 

EDX1450HPE Curriculum and Pedagogy

EDX2170English Curriculum and Pedagogy

EDX2190Australian History and Geography: Curriculum and Pedagogy

EDX2260Teaching Science for Understanding

EDX3160Science Curriculum and Pedagogy 

EDX3270Literacies Education

EDX3280Mathematics Curriculum and Pedagogy

Early Childhood Specialisation: 

EDE2010Play and Pedagogy I

EDE2101Early Childhood Education Contexts

EDE2201Development and Learning: Birth - 8

EDE3009Professional Practices in Early Childhood

EDE3103Play and Pedagogy II

EDE4010Leadership and Management in Early Childhood

EDE4012Cross-cultural Communication in Early Childhood

EDE4103Multilevel Early Childhood Pedagogy and Curriculum

Electives:Choose from a wide range of electives.

Entry requirements

• Year 12 English (4 SA) or equivalent
• From 2016 students will also need:
  • Year 12 maths A, B or C (4 SA) or equivalent
  • Year 12 science subject (4 SA) or equivalent
• Special entry pathways may be available. Please contact USQ. 

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 7.5 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

OP/Rank

The 2015 OP/Rank for this program is: 15/67

International entry requirements

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 7.5 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

Pre-requisites

Year 12 Senior Certificate or equivalent from a recognised institution. Find your country's level of qualificationand minimum entry requirements for this program.

• Year 12 English (4 SA) or equivalent
• From 2016 students will also need:
  • Year 12 maths A, B or C (4 SA) or equivalent
  • Year 12 science subject (4 SA) or equivalent
• Special entry pathways may be available. Please contact USQ. 

The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) program at the University of Southern Queensland offers a range of financing options to assist students in funding their studies. Tuition fees are structured according to the Commonwealth supported place (CSP) system and full-fee-paying places. Domestic students enrolled in CSPs are eligible to access government-funded student concessions and HECS-HELP loans, which substantially reduce the upfront cost of their education. These loans allow students to defer the payment of tuition fees until after graduation, when their income surpasses a certain threshold. International students, on the other hand, are required to pay full tuition fees, which vary depending on the course and level of study. The university provides detailed fee schedules on their official website, and prospective students are encouraged to review these to understand the financial commitments involved.

The university also offers a range of scholarship opportunities to support students financially. These scholarships are based on academic merit, financial need, or specific eligibility criteria related to the program. Students can apply for scholarships such as the Southern Queensland Innovation Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to students demonstrating academic excellence or innovative potential. Additionally, the university provides grants and bursaries that can help offset costs related to study materials, laptop purchases, or living expenses. In terms of external funding, students are encouraged to explore government grants, private scholarships, and sponsorship opportunities offered by various organizations supporting education.

Students are advised to consult the university’s financial aid office for personalized guidance, application procedures, and the latest information on available funding options. The university’s flexible payment arrangements and payment plan options allow students to spread their payments over the duration of their studies, alleviating financial pressure. Furthermore, the university works with a range of financial institutions to facilitate student loans and credit options, ensuring accessible and manageable ways to finance their education.

Overall, the University of Southern Queensland is dedicated to making early childhood education degrees accessible to a broad range of students by providing comprehensive information on financing options, scholarships, and support services. Prospective students are encouraged to explore all available resources and plan their finances accordingly to ensure a smooth academic journey through their early childhood education studies.

The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) at the University of Southern Queensland is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in early childhood education, focusing on the development, learning, and wellbeing of young children from birth to age eight. The program aims to equip graduates with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and professional values necessary to work effectively with children, families, and communities. Throughout the course, students engage with a comprehensive curriculum that covers child development, pedagogical theories, curriculum design and implementation, and inclusive education practices.

Students have the opportunity to undertake practical placements in a variety of early childhood settings, such as preschools, kindergartens, and childcare centers, which are integral to applying learned concepts in real-world environments. The program emphasizes the importance of fostering positive learning environments that support children’s holistic development, including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical aspects. Additionally, the course addresses contemporary issues in early childhood education, such as diversity, inclusion, Indigenous perspectives, and the use of technology in teaching.

The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) program at USQ also incorporates professional ethics and reflective practice components, encouraging students to develop as lifelong learners and dedicated educators. Graduates are eligible for registration with the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACEQA) and pursue careers as early childhood teachers in government and private early learning centers. They may also work in areas related to curriculum development, education policy, and community engagement.

The program is delivered through a combination of on-campus and online study modes, providing flexibility for students balancing other commitments. The teaching teams are experienced professionals with expertise in early childhood education, ensuring that students receive quality instruction and mentorship. Upon successful completion, graduates are well-prepared to contribute positively to the development of children and the early childhood education sector, making a meaningful difference in young learners’ lives.

Overall, the University of Southern Queensland’s Early Childhood Education program emphasizes evidence-based practices, cultural competence, and innovative teaching methods to meet the evolving needs of early childhood education. The program supports students in building a strong foundation for a future in education that is both fulfilling and impactful, promoting lifelong learning and professional growth.