Graduate Certificate in Early Years Education

Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Early Years Education is an exciting new program which specialises in working with children 0-5 years. It is a specialist postgraduate early childhood education program of the highest quality studied part time over one academic year, ensuring that graduates are well equipped for the increasingly expanding and rewarding role of early childhood educator. This Graduate Certificate is part of a strategy by the University and the Faculty of Education to prioritise education in the Early Years. The Certificate supports the capacity of relevant professionals to meet workforce requirements in line with Australian Government directions in early childhood education and care reform.

At the time of printing the new program is being assessed by the NSW Department of Community Services to ensure the Graduate Certificate meets all the regulatory requirements for staff member positions in licensed child care services. The Graduate Certificate in Early Years Education will provide:

a) a fourth year of study in Early Childhood Education for students who have completed a three year early childhood qualification

b) an accredited Early Years Education qualification for teachers who have qualified in Primary Education and are working in early childhood

c) a postgraduate program of study for students interested in pursuing higher degree study in this area.

Current employment experiences will be recognised for professional experience but recognition by DOCS requires students to demonstrate competence across the entire 0-5 years age range. This may require some field visits or placements.

Entry Requirements

Academic Requirements

3 or 4 year recognised teaching qualification or equivalent eg. Bachelor of Teaching or Bachelor of Education

Other Acceptable Qualifications: 3 year degree plus Grad Diploma in Education

Special Note: Entry may be considered for students with a combination of tertiary studies and professional experience that is deemed equivalent to a three year teaching degree.

English Language Requirements

Standard English Language Requirements: IELTS score - Minimum overall: 7

Reading: 7 Writing: 6.5 Speaking: 6 Listening: 6

This minimum level of English language proficiency is so that students can function effectively in a professional early years setting.

Course Program

The Graduate Certificate in Early Years Education consists of 24 credit points of study, completed over a minimum of one year of part-time study. The four subjects are chosen from the list below, however other subjects from the Faculty's postgraduate program could be included with the approval of the Early Years Program Director.

Subjects