Course Overview

About This Course

The Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) (MC-TCHECP) is for those seeking dual registration to teach in early childhood settings (0-5 years) and across all primary years (5-12 years) as a generalist teacher. The course integrates the latest theory with practice, developing readiness to work with learners of all abilities and evaluate, identify and support their individual learning needs. Students become an active member of a school or early childhood community from their first semester, supported by a Mentor Teacher and Clinical Specialist, and build skills in establishing safe environments, promoting positive wellbeing, understanding Indigenous worldviews, and taking on leadership positions in educational communities.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Melbourne

234 St. Kilda Road, Southbank, VIC 3006

Open in Maps ↗

Student Information

Fees & Entry by Student Type

Tuition Fee

AUD $40,500 (2026 indicative first year fee) / AUD $85,050 (indicative total course fee). Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) available; Australian full fee (AF) places also available.

Duration

2 years full time / 3 years part time

Intakes

February, July

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

An undergraduate degree in any discipline that includes at least one full year of full-time equivalent study relevant to one or more learning areas of the primary school curriculum
Completion of the Initial Teacher Education Assessment (iTEA)
Guaranteed Entry pathway available for University of Melbourne bachelor graduates, including early admission and a Commonwealth Supported Place (domestic students only)
Graduate Degree Package pathway available for Year 12 students
English language requirements: IELTS 7.0 with no band less than 7.0 (writing 7.0, speaking 7.5, reading 7.0, listening 7.5), or equivalent approved test score
Graduate Access Melbourne (GAM) entry scheme available

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Accredited by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) per AITSL Graduate Standards, and by the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA); graduates may register to teach children aged 0-12 years in Australian schools and early childhood settings
Roles in government (policy reform), research and community sectors including children's services coordination, youth health and wellbeing, assessment and evaluation, and quality regulation
Research pathway available via the Master of Education (Research), leading to potential entry into the Doctor of Philosophy - Education

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Professional Body

Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) / AITSL

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

AITSL / ACECQA

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units2 units

Core early childhood and primary teaching subjects

Integrating theory with practice to teach learners aged 0-12 years, evaluating and supporting individual learning needs.

Professional placement

Placement experience across school and early childhood settings from semester one, supported by a Mentor Teacher and Clinical Specialist.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Master of Teaching (Primary) and the Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary)?

While a Master of Teaching (Primary) prepares you to teach primary school-aged children (5–12 years), a Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) also prepares you to teach younger children in early childhood settings (0–5 years). Graduating with a Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) allows you to seek dual registration to teach both age groups.

What practical experience will I gain during the Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary)?

You will become an active member of a school or early childhood community from your first semester and be supported by a Mentor Teacher and Clinical Specialist every step of the way.

Is the Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) available as a Commonwealth Supported Place?

Yes, Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) are available for this course. Students who have completed a bachelor's degree at the University of Melbourne and use the Guaranteed Entry early admission pathway are also eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place (for domestic students only).

What teaching registration does this course lead to?

The Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary) is designed for those seeking registration with the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) to teach in specialised early years learning and development settings (0–5 years) and across all primary years (5–12 years) as a generalist teacher.

What support is available for Indigenous students enrolled in this course?

If you are an Indigenous student, the University of Melbourne offers a range of support services via Murrup Barak throughout your enrolment and studies.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $55,000 to $70,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $70,000 to $82,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $82,000 to $92,000 per year

Career Paths

Early Childhood Educator (Certificate III level)Early Childhood Teacher (ECT)Room Leader / Lead EducatorEducational LeaderChildcare Centre Director / Centre Manager

Key Skills

Child development assessment and observationPlay-based curriculum design and implementationApplication of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)Inclusive education practices for children with diverse needsBehaviour guidance and positive relationships with children

Full Course Overview

💬

Need guidance?

Free advisor support

Our advisors help international students choose the right course and navigate visa pathways — at no cost.

Promote your Institution with Find the Courses