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Key facts

Domestic students course information. This course is currently not available to international students.

Entry requirements

Guaranteed ATAR: 77.10

Entry is based on recent secondary (ATAR), higher education, VET study, or VET study and relevant professional experience.

View full entry requirements
Duration
  • 2.5 or 3.5 or 4 years full-time
  • Up to 10 years part-time
Number of Units (Subjects)
  • 32 units (192 credit points)
View course structure
Fees
  • Commonwealth Supported Place
View more fees information
Start Dates and Campus
Trimester 1 – February 2026Trimester 2 – June 2026Trimester 3 – October 2026
Online OfferedOfferedOffered
Armidale Campus OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered
Sydney Campus Not OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered

View 2027 course information

Course information

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UNE student assists school student in front of a laptop

Develop the knowledge and skills to work with children from birth to 12 years with UNE's Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary). This is the degree for you if you have a commitment towards educating and inspiring children and want a qualification that paves the way for a flexible teaching career. If you are looking to get started in early childhood teaching, this degree has a variety of admission rules, including rules for those with no experience or qualifications in early childhood teaching.

Why study the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) with UNE?
The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) is a unique teacher education course that offers you two pathways as a graduate. As an initial-teacher education qualification, it enables you to work with children across the age range from birth to 12 years, in either early childhood services or primary schools.

This degree is perfect if you are looking to get started in early childhood teaching as it includes a variety of admission rules, including rules for those with no experience or qualifications in early childhood teaching. If you already hold a previous qualification, this degree is a great way to become four-year qualified.

At UNE, our teaching team is involved in local and international professional communities, maintaining direct links with the field. And we continue to develop and evolve our teaching approach to help you respond to global trends, challenges and opportunities.

With UNE’s long track record of 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support, we have the expertise and the support to help you make a real difference to young people’s lives through education.

What makes our course different?
UNE’s Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) comes with opportunities:

  • As a fully prescribed (all core units) course, you will study an equal weighting of both early childhood and primary teacher education, giving you the best possible grounding in both fields.
  • Learn from a research-active teaching team with significant expertise in both primary and early childhood education.
  • Hone your knowledge with a Primary Specialisation in Literacy across Transition Years.
  • Be supported and challenged to achieve your best with guidance in various modes, including online discussion forums.
  • Develop your practical skills with 135 days of professional experience: 75 days in primary schools and 60 days in early childhood centres. Our dedicated Office for Professional Learning manages your professional experience and publishes a schedule of dates and schools to support your placement journey.
  • If you are working in an ACECQA-approved early childhood centre-based service, most early childhood education placements can be completed in-service.

This course is accredited with the following bodies:

  1. NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) - the Jurisdictional teacher regulatory authority responsible for ensuring compliance and accreditation in conjunction with the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL); and
  2. Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) - the national regulatory authority for the early childhood education and care sector.

Study online
Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.

Study on campus
Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.

* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.

Entry requirements

Select the option that best describes your experience.

You are currently studying Year 12 (school or TAFE) or have done so within the past 2 years.

Guaranteed ATAR
77.10
In addition to meeting the minimum Guaranteed ATAR, you must also satisfy the School of Education of your suitability for teaching by completing a Personal Statement.

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

There are ATAR-related adjustments that can be applied to increase your rank when applying for this course.

UNE ATAR Adjustment Scheme
UNE can automatically award additional points as adjustment factors to the ATAR of eligible applicants for this course without the need for an additional application.
> Learn more about the UNE ATAR Adjustment Scheme

Education Adjustment Scheme (EAS)
UNE acknowledges and provides consideration for applicants who have experienced an educational disadvantage. If you are planning to study on campus you can seek consideration for this scheme when applying for this course.
> Learn more about EAS

UNE Early Entry Program
Early Entry is open to all Year 12 applicants and relies on your school’s assessment of your attributes and suitability for study. You can apply early, receive an offer and secure a place with UNE, even before your scores are released.
> Learn more about the UNE Early Entry Program

UAC Schools Recommendation Scheme (SRS)
This scheme provides eligible Year 12 applicants who have applied via the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) the opportunity to receive early offers of undergraduate admission to UNE based on their school ratings and Year 11 results.
> Learn more about SRS

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

English Language Requirements

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

Assumed Knowledge

By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English and any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge

Fit for Practice/Informed Consent Information

You should only accept an offer for this course if you meet the following Fit for Practice requirements. You must:

  • abide by UNE policies, such as Student Behavioural Misconduct Rules;
  • abide by School of Education policies, such as the Professional Experience Policy for professional placements;
  • exercise sound judgment, based on cognitive, mental and physical health, and be able to respond appropriately to the demands of teaching situations;
  • show personal resilience and persistence to cope and maintain wellbeing under stressful situations;
  • uphold UNE’s integrity and show duty of care to students/children while completing professional experience;
  • show personal maturity to ensure that a professional relationship is established with students/children;
  • communicate with students/children with clarity and in a manner appropriate to their age/profile;
  • have and model the literacy and numeracy skills expected of teachers in interactions both inside and outside the classroom;
  • be able to create, evaluate and reflect on the physical and emotional safety of students/children in various situations and environments; and
  • be able to establish and maintain effective professional relationships with colleagues and broader school/early childhood communities.

If you have or develop a disability that could prevent you from meeting these requirements, please contact UNE’s Student Services team to see how we can help you succeed. If you find that you have difficulties meeting the requirements above during your studies, please contact the Office for Professional Learning for assistance.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

You have studied at UNE or other higher education institutions, completed or otherwise.

This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study). 

Rule C: You have completed a three-year or four-year Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7) in Early Childhood. Your Bachelor qualification must be approved by the Australian Children’s Education & Care Authority (ACECQA) and have a conferral date within ten years prior to your commencement of this course.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule C. Please see the Rule C Course Structure (Program of Study).

You must also satisfy the School of Education of your suitability for teaching by completing a Personal Statement.

Rule D: You have completed ONE of the following qualifications:

  • A four-year Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7) in Primary Education
  • OR a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7) and a two-year pre-service postgraduate primary teaching qualification (AQF Level 9).

Your teaching qualification must be recognised by the NSW Education Standard Authority (NESA) or equivalent interstate body, and have a conferral date within 10 years prior to your commencement of this course.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule D. Please see the Rule D Course Structure (Program of Study).

You do not need to complete the Personal Statement if applying for admission under Rule D.

Transfer from another UNE course
If you are currently studying another undergraduate qualification at UNE, you can apply to transfer into this course. To be assessed for admission you must:

  • Be eligible for admission to this course under Rules A, B, C or D.
  • Have completed 4 units of study within a single course with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.3, OR 5 or more units of study within a single course with a minimum GPA of 4.0.
  • Satisfy the School of Education of your suitability for teaching through the completion of a Personal Statement.

The admission rule you are admitted under will depend on which admission rule you fulfil in addition to meeting one of the above GPA requirements.

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

English Language Requirements

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

Assumed Knowledge

By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English and any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge

Fit for Practice/Informed Consent Information

You should only accept an offer for this course if you meet the following Fit for Practice requirements. You must:

  • abide by UNE policies, such as Student Behavioural Misconduct Rules;
  • abide by School of Education policies, such as the Professional Experience Policy for professional placements;
  • exercise sound judgment, based on cognitive, mental and physical health, and be able to respond appropriately to the demands of teaching situations;
  • show personal resilience and persistence to cope and maintain wellbeing under stressful situations;
  • uphold UNE’s integrity and show duty of care to students/children while completing professional experience;
  • show personal maturity to ensure that a professional relationship is established with students/children;
  • communicate with students/children with clarity and in a manner appropriate to their age/profile;
  • have and model the literacy and numeracy skills expected of teachers in interactions both inside and outside the classroom;
  • be able to create, evaluate and reflect on the physical and emotional safety of students/children in various situations and environments; and
  • be able to establish and maintain effective professional relationships with colleagues and broader school/early childhood communities.

If you have or develop a disability that could prevent you from meeting these requirements, please contact UNE’s Student Services team to see how we can help you succeed. If you find that you have difficulties meeting the requirements above during your studies, please contact the Office for Professional Learning for assistance.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

You have undertaken VET study through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), e.g. TAFE.

This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study). 

Rule A: You have undertaken VET studies. When assessing your application, we will look at the following factors:

  • Level and type of qualification (completed graded Diploma or above)
  • Graded or ungraded (competency-based)
  • Complete or incomplete.

You must also satisfy the School of Education of your suitability for teaching by completing a Personal Statement.

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

 

Rule B: You have completed a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (AQF Level 5) or equivalent. Your Diploma must be approved by Australian Children’s Education & Care Authority (ACECQA).
You must also meet at least one of the following entry requirements:

  • You have undertaken 1 year of full-time (or part-time equivalent) early childhood workplace experience as a room leader.
  • OR you have undertaken 2 years of full-time (or part-time equivalent) early childhood workplace experience as an early childhood teacher assistant/aid, family daycare accredited provider, or an accredited before and after school carer.

You must also satisfy the School of Education of your suitability for teaching by completing a Personal Statement.

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

English Language Requirements

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

Assumed Knowledge

By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English and any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge

Fit for Practice/Informed Consent Information

You should only accept an offer for this course if you meet the following Fit for Practice requirements. You must:

  • abide by UNE policies, such as Student Behavioural Misconduct Rules;
  • abide by School of Education policies, such as the Professional Experience Policy for professional placements;
  • exercise sound judgment, based on cognitive, mental and physical health, and be able to respond appropriately to the demands of teaching situations;
  • show personal resilience and persistence to cope and maintain wellbeing under stressful situations;
  • uphold UNE’s integrity and show duty of care to students/children while completing professional experience;
  • show personal maturity to ensure that a professional relationship is established with students/children;
  • communicate with students/children with clarity and in a manner appropriate to their age/profile;
  • have and model the literacy and numeracy skills expected of teachers in interactions both inside and outside the classroom;
  • be able to create, evaluate and reflect on the physical and emotional safety of students/children in various situations and environments; and
  • be able to establish and maintain effective professional relationships with colleagues and broader school/early childhood communities.

If you have or develop a disability that could prevent you from meeting these requirements, please contact UNE’s Student Services team to see how we can help you succeed. If you find that you have difficulties meeting the requirements above during your studies, please contact the Office for Professional Learning for assistance.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

You left high school more than two years ago or did not finish Year 12.

You can apply for this course on the basis of work and/or life experience via a Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT).
The STAT is a test that assesses a range of competencies considered important for successful tertiary study. UNE accepts the multiple-choice component provided you have completed it within the three years prior to course commencement.
> Visit ACER for more information

You must also satisfy the School of Education of your suitability for teaching by completing a Personal Statement.

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Course Rule A Structure (Program of Study).

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

Teaching Solution Finder
There is more than one way to study the course of your dreams at UNE. Head over to our Teaching Solution Finder to find the right pathway for you.

Foundation Program
This is a free (fees exempt) and 100% online program designed to help you prepare for university. It will provide you with all the skills needed to undertake undergraduate study.
> Learn more about the Foundation Program

 TRACKS Indigenous Foundation Program (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants)
TRACKS is a foundation program run by the UNE Oorala Aboriginal Centre. Over two trimesters you will experience what university study is about and learn in a supported environment. Be part of a community of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples who share your goals and interests.
> Learn more about TRACKS

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

English Language Requirements

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

Assumed Knowledge

By applying for this course, we assume that you have sound knowledge of any 2 units of English and any 2 units of Mathematics studied at a Year 12 level (or overseas equivalent).
> Learn more about Assumed Knowledge

Fit for Practice/Informed Consent Information

You should only accept an offer for this course if you meet the following Fit for Practice requirements. You must:

  • abide by UNE policies, such as Student Behavioural Misconduct Rules;
  • abide by School of Education policies, such as the Professional Experience Policy for professional placements;
  • exercise sound judgment, based on cognitive, mental and physical health, and be able to respond appropriately to the demands of teaching situations;
  • show personal resilience and persistence to cope and maintain wellbeing under stressful situations;
  • uphold UNE’s integrity and show duty of care to students/children while completing professional experience;
  • show personal maturity to ensure that a professional relationship is established with students/children;
  • communicate with students/children with clarity and in a manner appropriate to their age/profile;
  • have and model the literacy and numeracy skills expected of teachers in interactions both inside and outside the classroom;
  • be able to create, evaluate and reflect on the physical and emotional safety of students/children in various situations and environments; and
  • be able to establish and maintain effective professional relationships with colleagues and broader school/early childhood communities.

If you have or develop a disability that could prevent you from meeting these requirements, please contact UNE’s Student Services team to see how we can help you succeed. If you find that you have difficulties meeting the requirements above during your studies, please contact the Office for Professional Learning for assistance.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:

Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.

Course Entry Advanced Standing
Some entry rules come with Advanced Standing or Articulation Programs that are assessed automatically without the need for you to fill in an additional application. Simply apply for your course and we’ll look after the rest.

  • If you are admitted under Rule B, you will be granted 36 credit points of Specified Advanced Standing.
  • If you are admitted under Rule C, you will be granted 72 credit points of Specified Advanced Standing.
  • If you are admitted under Rule D, you will be granted 96 credit points of Specified Advanced Standing.

Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.

  • If you are admitted under Rule A, you can apply for up to 126 credit points of Advanced Standing based on undergraduate Early Childhood units taken as part of an incomplete Early Childhood Teaching qualification (AQF Level 7 and ACECQA-approved).
  • If you are admitted under Rule B, you can apply for up to a further 90 credit points of Advanced Standing based on undergraduate Early Childhood units taken as part of an incomplete Early Childhood Teaching qualification (AQF Level 7 and ACECQA-approved).
  • If you are admitted under Rule C, you can apply for up to a further 54 credit points of Advanced Standing based on units which are not part of the qualification you used for admission.
  • If you are admitted under Rule D, you can apply for up to a further 30 credit points of Advanced Standing based on units which are not part of the qualification you used for admission.

Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for the following units:

  • EDUC106 Teaching Development 1: Online PrEx 10 days
  • EDSP410 Inclusive Teaching: PrEx 30 days

Please note:

  • Advanced Standing for EDEC coded units that include both theory and placement can only be considered when evidence of having previously fulfilled both components is provided, and when the placement component has been completed within the past 5 years.
  • Advanced Standing for EDEC coded units under Rules B, C and D can only be granted on the basis of previous tertiary studies. Professional experience cannot be considered, as your professional experience has already been recognised as part of the credit received at admission.

> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing

Course structure

  1. To qualify for the award a candidate must pass units to the value of 192 credit points, which includes 135 days of professional experience.
  2. With the exception of candidates admitted under Rule D, who already have an approved Initial Teacher Education qualification, all candidates are expected to attempt the National Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students within the first year of full time study or equivalent (the first 48cps of study) and must pass it before the final professional experience placement.
  3. With the exception of candidates admitted under Rule D, who already have an approved Initial Teacher Education qualification, all candidates must pass the Graduate Teacher Performance Assessment (GTPA) during the final professional experience placement.

192 credit points

For candidates admitted under Rule A IMPORTANT ADVICE All students admitted under Rule A must complete 24cps of Discipline Units before being permitted to undertake the remainder of their Program of Study. The units approved to count towards the 24cps are EDME145, EDEC102, EDEC105 and EDEC106. Completion of the 24cps of Discipline Units before progressing further into this program is a requirement of accreditation and is deemed comparable to a Band 4 in Mathematics and three Band 5 HSC results, including one in English.

192 credit points

Complete the following units:

The following units are Primary curriculum units:

EDAE303 Creative Arts Key Learning Areas
EDEC350 Literacy in the Early Years
EDEE150 Introduction to English in the Primary Years
EDEE250 English in the Primary Years: Focus on Teaching Early Reading
EDEE450 English in the Primary Years: Focus on Writing and Creating
EDME358 Primary Mathematics 2A: Space, Measurement and Number
EDME369 Primary Mathematics 2B: Statistics, Algebra and Number
EDPE247 Teaching Physical Education in Primary Schools
EDPE346 Teaching Health Education in Primary Schools
EDSE359 Teaching Primary Science and Technology
EDSS379 Primary School Society and Environment Teaching

Note: At least one of the professional placements in EDLT301, EDSP324 or EDSP410 must be completed in Early Stage 1/Stage 1.

Candidates are required to pass the National Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students prior to commencing their final professional experience placement.

Candidates are also required to successfully complete the Teaching Performance Assessment during their final professional experience placement.

192 credit points

For candidates admitted under Rule B

Diploma in Children's Services or equivalent. Candidates must pass units to the value of 156 credit points.
See the ACECQA website for ACECQA-approved Diploma-level qualifications.

36 credit points

36 credit points specified advanced standing granted to those candidates who have completed the ACECQA-approved Diploma in Children's Services or equivalent and work experience as set out in Admission Rule B.

156 credit points

Complete the following units:

The following units are Primary curriculum units:

EDAE303 Creative Arts Key Learning Areas
EDEC350 Literacy in the Early Years
EDEE150 Introduction to English in the Primary Years
EDEE250 English in the Primary Years: Focus on Teaching Early Reading
EDEE450 English in the Primary Years: Focus on Writing and Creating
EDME358 Primary Mathematics 2A: Space, Measurement and Number
EDME369 Primary Mathematics 2B: Statistics, Algebra and Number
EDPE247 Teaching Physical Education in Primary Schools
EDPE346 Teaching Health Education in Primary Schools
EDPE359 Teaching Primary Science and Technology
EDSS379 Primary School Society and Environment Teaching

Note: At least one of the professional placements in EDLT301, EDSP324 or EDSP410 must be completed in Early Stage 1/Stage 1.

Candidates are required to pass the National Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students prior to commencing their final professional experience placement.

Candidates are also required to successfully complete the Graduate Teaching Performance Assessment during their final professional experience placement.

192 credit points

For candidates admitted under Rule C

Three or four Year AQF Level 7 ACECQA approved Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood Teaching (ECT) with a conferral date of not more than ten years prior to the proposed commencement of studies in the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary). Candidates must pass units to the value of 120 credit points.
See the ACECQA website, Qualification Level "ECT".

72 credit points

72 credit points specified advanced standing granted to those candidates who have completed an AQF Level 7 ACECQA-approved Bachelor degree in Early Childhood Teaching (ECT).

120 credit points

Complete the following units:

The following units are Primary curriculum units:

EDAE303 Creative Arts Key Learning Areas
EDEC350 Literacy in the Early Years
EDEE150 Introduction to English in the Primary Years
EDEE250 English in the Primary Years: Focus on Teaching Early Reading
EDEE450 English in the Primary Years: Focus on Writing and Creating
EDME358 Primary Mathematics 2A: Space, Measurement and Number
EDME369 Primary Mathematics 2B: Statistics, Algebra and Number
EDPE247 Teaching Physical Education in Primary Schools
EDPE346 Teaching Health Education in Primary Schools
EDPE359 Teaching Primary Science and Technology
EDSS379 Primary School Society and Environment Teaching

Note: At least one of the professional placements in EDLT301, EDSP324 or EDSP410 must be completed in Early Stage 1/Stage 1.

Candidates are required to pass the National Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students prior to commencing their final professional experience placement.

Candidates are also required to successfully complete the Graduate Teaching Performance Assessment during their final professional experience placement.

192 credit points

For candidates admitted under Rule D

Four-year AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree in Primary Education, or AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree and an AQF Level 9 two year pre-service primary teaching qualification, recognised by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) or interstate equivalent body, with a conferral date of not more than 10 years prior to the proposed commencement in the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary).
Candidates must pass units to the value of 96 credit points.

96 credit points

96 credit points specified advanced standing granted to those candidates who have completed a four-year AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree in Primary Education, or an AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree and a Level 9 two year pre-service primary teaching qualification.

The following units are Primary curriculum units:

EDAE303 Creative Arts Key Learning Areas
EDEC350 Literacy in the Early Years
EDEE150 Introduction to English in the Primary Years
EDEE250 English in the Primary Years: Focus on Teaching Early Reading
EDEE450 English in the Primary Years: Focus on Writing and Creating
EDME358 Primary Mathematics 2A: Space, Measurement and Number
EDME369 Primary Mathematics 2B: Statistics, Algebra and Number
EDPE247 Teaching Physical Education in Primary Schools
EDPE346 Teaching Health Education in Primary Schools
EDPE359 Teaching Primary Science and Technology
EDSS379 Primary School Society and Environment Teaching

96 credit points

Complete the following units:

See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.

Fees and scholarships

Understanding Your Course Fees

Your total course fees are based on the number of units you complete, not the length of time you study. This gives you flexibility to tailor your study journey to suit your circumstances.

Here's how it works:

  • Unit-based pricing - Each unit has its own fee. Visit our Fees and Costs section for detailed unit pricing information
  • Advanced standing - If you're eligible for credit for previous study, you'll complete fewer units and pay less overall
  • Study pace - Choose part-time or full-time study to fit your schedule without affecting unit costs
  • Trimester 3 option - Students who choose to accelerate their progress by studying during Trimester 3 can do so without increasing overall costs

The table below shows estimated fees for a typical full-time year of study (48 credit points which typically equates to 8 units)

How much will it cost?

Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:

Fee typeCost
Commonwealth Supported Place
$5,137*
Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time$373
*The costs will depend on the units you choose to study as the cost of individual units vary. “Estimated fees” are provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking a study load of 48 credit points in the first year of this course. For courses that require less than 48 credit points the fees indicated are based on the total credit points required for completion of that course. For more information, please see fees and costs.

What are the course fee payment options?

A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.

If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.

UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.

There are plenty of scholarships to choose from
Find your perfect scholarship using our Find a Scholarship tool and reduce the cost of your future studies with us today.
Find a scholarship

Your career

Career outcomes

The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) will give you an accredited qualification as both a Early Childhood Teacher and Primary Teacher. Studying the combination of early childhood and primary teaching feeds directly into a variety of employment opportunities in the education profession, including: 

  • early childhood teacher
  • primary school teacher 
  • service director/coordinator or centre educational leader 
  • coordinator/leader of cluster of services, family day care coordination unit educator or manager
  • early childhood advisor for governments, professional development educator or child and family services support worker or manager 
  • early childhood expert for projects and studies, TAFE teacher or community advocate roles for children and families. 
  • curriculum consultant, educational research
  • school management, educational administration, schools outreach
Professional recognition

On completion of the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) you will have a qualification accredited with both the New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA) and Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). The program meets;

  • the requirements of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) for initial teacher education programs. This ensures you meet the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers at the Graduate Career Stage. 
  • the requirements of the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) for early childhood teaching programs, at the Bachelor level. 

Teacher Registration - Early Childhood Teacher: Prospective students from states other than NSW should seek advice from their state and territory teacher accrediting bodies as to requirements for registration as an Early Childhood Teacher. 

Teacher Registration - Primary Teacher: Students should note that teacher registration requirements vary from state to state. UNE bases its degree structures on the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) guidelines, under the AITSL framework for teacher registration. It is the responsibility of each student to check their eligibility to teach with the relevant state authority (including students who intend to teach in NSW).

Applicants are advised to check with potential employing bodies regarding employment requirements. As of the date of publication, the NSW Department of Education requirements can be found here. Both public and private sector schools can set eligibility requirements relating to academic performance (including GPA requirements) in their degrees among other criteria. Requirements to teach internationally can vary from country to country.

Course outcomes

The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) provides graduates with an accredited professional qualification meeting; (i) the requirements of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) for initial teacher education programs, and ensuring all graduates meet the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers at the Graduate Career Stage. (ii) the requirements of the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) for early childhood teaching programs, at the Bachelor level. 
  1. meet ACECQA requirements for early childhood teaching by being: professional and inspirational educators; confident and competent communicators; critical enquirers engaged in a scholarship of teaching and learning; and innovative and people-focused leaders; and
  2. qualify as primary teachers and satisfy the seven standards prescribed by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership by: knowing their students and how students learn; knowing their subject/content and how to teach that content to their students; planning for and implementing effective teaching and learning; creating and maintaining supportive and safe learning environments; assessing, providing feedback and reporting on student learning; continually improving by engaging in professional learning; and continually engaging professionally with colleagues, parents/carers and the community.
Knowledge of a Discipline

Graduates will have the broad and coherent knowledge to effectively plan and deliver education in early childhood and primary school settings and will understand the cultural contexts and global perspectives of early childhood and schooling in general and the diversity of the family and student population. They will be able to demonstrate intercultural competence by responding flexibly to the needs of young children, students, colleagues, families and community members.

Communication Skills

Graduates will be able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with young children, students, colleagues, parents and other stakeholders.

Problem Solving

Graduates will be able to exercise critical thinking and judgement in identifying and solving problems with intellectual independence.

Information Literacy

Graduates will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of digital resources and tools and their safe, legal and ethical use, and be able to apply this knowledge in the early childhood and primary school settings.

Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility

Graduates will have developed responsibility for others and an understanding that personal beliefs and actions impinge on others. They will demonstrate this through ethical conduct and by being sensitive and responsive to the needs of children, students, colleagues, families and the community in the provision of a safe and supportive environment.

Lifelong Learning

Graduates will understand the importance of life-long learning and will be equipped with the skills to pursue professional and personal development.

Independence and Collaboration

Graduates will be able to work independently and collaboratively with others to achieve educational and professional goals.

Excellence in experience, equity and employability

2026 Overall Experience

Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.

Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
2026 Social Equality

Five Stars for
Social Equity

UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.

Good Universities Guide 2026
2026 Graduate Employment

Five Stars for
Graduate Employment

UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.

Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
2026 Diamond-Rated Digital Learning

Diamond-Rated Digital Learning

UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.

ASCILITE TELAS 2025
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Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.

We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*

*The Good Universities Guide

Find out how online study works

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Why study with us?

UNE Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) student Anna Fraser interacts with child

Early childhood and primary are complementary in nature. It offered me a unique perspective on the sequential development of a child from the early years to primary school.

Anna Fraser, UNE Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) student

How to apply

Applying to UNE is quick and easy. If you are applying as a
, the application process may be a little different depending on who you are and what you want to study.

Preparing to apply

You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.

The kind of documents you need will depend on:

  • Your preferred course/s
  • Your personal circumstances

Important Dates

Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.

If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.

IntakeApplication Closing DateTrimester Start Date
Trimester 124 February 202623 February 2026
Trimester 223 June 202622 June 2026
Trimester 39 October 202619 October 2026
Apply now

Future study opportunities

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The University of New England respects and acknowledges that its people, courses and facilities are built on land, and surrounded by a sense of belonging, both ancient and contemporary, of the world's oldest living culture. In doing so, UNE values and respects Indigenous knowledge systems as a vital part of the knowledge capital of Australia. We recognise the strength, resilience and capacity of the Aboriginal community and pay our respects to the Elders past, present and future.