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PG Diploma in Australia 2026

Last updated9th Dec 2025
9 mins read
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Nidhi Mehrotra
Published by Nidhi Mehrotra

Certified Australia & New Zealand Education Expert | Senior Manager

Did you know that Australia is home to over 700,000 international students? From graduation, master's and most significant percentage enrolling in PG diploma courses in Australia? These programmes offer great benefits to enhance your career prospects with a world-class education.

A postgraduate diploma course in Australia not only offers specialised skills but also provides a pathway to further academic opportunities. It also benefits students or employment in a thriving job market, with more than 73% of graduates finding full-time employment within four months of completing their studies.

Let us explore everything you need to know about studying a PG Diploma in Australia from eligibility its eligibility, tuition fees, application process, and scholarships for international students to career prospects after graduation.

What is a Postgraduate Diploma in Australia?

A Postgraduate Diploma in Australia is an advanced academic qualification that sits between a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

Structure and Key Characteristics

  • Duration: Your diploma course usually takes 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time.
  • Credit Points: You need 120 credit points.
  • Entry Requirements: Requires bachelors degree or equivalent experience.
  • Focus: It imparts specialised knowledge and skills with a practical orientation.
  • Difference from a master's degree.
  • Of shorter duration.
  • This often entails coursework only, with less emphasis on research.
  • It can be a pathway to a master's degree.

Benefits

  • Career Development: Ensure that relevant industry skills are available to be used for career progression.
  • Flexibility: This is especially useful for those who want to reskill without having to commit themselves to writing a master's degree.

Pathway: This is going to take you to the graduate programme; it normally facilitates credit transfer.

Australia offers various courses for Postgraduate diplomas in Australia that are made to add to your skill set and career prospects. Some of the popular courses according to the field of study have been mentioned:

PG Diploma in Business

Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration

  • Overview: Covers core business disciplines like finance, marketing, management, and strategy
  • Universities: University of Melbourne, Monash University

Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management

  • Overview: Focuses on employee relations, recruitment, and performance management
  • Universities: University of Sydney, Griffith University

PG Diploma in Engineering

Postgraduate Diploma in Civil Engineering

  • Overview: Emphasises project management, structural analysis, and sustainable design
  • Universities: University of New South Wales (UNSW), RMIT University

Postgraduate Diploma in Electrical Engineering

  • Overview: Covers advanced topics in power systems, electronics, and telecommunications
  • Universities: University of Queensland, University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
  • Information Technology (IT)

Postgraduate Diploma in Information Technology

  • Overview: Focuses on software development, network security, and data management
  • Universities: Australian National University (ANU), University of Melbourne

PG Diploma in Health Sciences

Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health

  • Overview: Explores epidemiology, health promotion, and policy development
  • Universities: University of Sydney, University of Queensland

Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing

  • Overview: Focuses on advanced nursing practices, clinical leadership, and patient care
  • Universities: University of Melbourne, Monash University

PG Diploma in Education

Postgraduate Diploma in Education

  • Overview: Emphasises teaching strategies, curriculum development, and educational psychology
  • Universities: University of Sydney, University of Queensland

Postgraduate Diploma in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)

  • Overview: Prepares educators to teach English in multicultural settings
  • Universities: University of Melbourne, Macquarie University

Wondering which courses you qualify for? Take the first step to check your eligibility. Register at AECC and let our experts evaluate your profile and recommend the best courses for you.

Eligibility for PG Diploma Courses in Australia

The general eligibility criterion for post graduate diploma in Australia for international students is given below:

Academic Qualifications

  • Undergraduate Degree: You should have an undergraduate degree or any other qualification at the same level from an institution duly recognized.
  • Programme-Specific Requirements: A few programmes require a degree in that specific area.

English Proficiency

  • IELTS Academic: A minimum overall score of 6.5 bands with no bands less than 6.0
  • TOEFL iBT: Overall minimum required score of 79, with an individual test score of at least 13 on reading, at least 12 on listening, at least 18 on speaking, and at least 21 on writing
  • PTE Academic: Within 58-64 with none of the communicative skills that entail less than 50

Specific Entry Requirements for Different Fields of Study

  • Business: This requires an applicable undergraduate degree; some graduate programmes also require business experience.
  • Engineering: This usually requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field.
  • Health Sciences: The inclusion of certain undergraduate qualifications may be necessary, while it is also one of the requirements that demands professional registration at times.
  • Creative Arts: Some programmes require a portfolio or audition.

Documentation

  • Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from previous postsecondary institutions.
  • Provide an up-to-date detailed resume or CV indicating your academic background and relevant work experience.
  • Statement of Purpose: A writing or statement of purpose that defines your goals, interests, and reasons for choice of programme.

Application Process

  • Application Form: The prescribed form is available from the Institution and has to be filled out.
  • Application Fee: Payment of any non-refundable application fee. Visa Requirements: You will need to apply for an Australian Student Visa, subclass 500, upon acceptance.

How to Apply for PG Diploma Courses in Australia?

Here are the complete stepwise instructions to post graduate diploma in Australia for international students:

  1. Select the proper education provider and a PG Diploma course that aligns with your career goals.
  2. You need to check the entry requirements for your chosen programme.
  3. In case of any inquiry, student services or an admission department can be contacted.
  4. Ask your admissions office about prior credit for certificates or diplomas.
  5. Go to the education provider's website and enter its online application portal.
  6. Follow the step-by-step instructions to submit your application.
  7. Upon your successful application, you will be issued with a letter of offer.
  8. Respond to the offer in a timely manner, indicating your acceptance.
  9. Upon acceptance of an offer, student orientation details will be provided.
  10. Follow these steps to complete the mandatory orientation process and other preparatory activities leading up to your course's start date.

Looking for expert guidance for applying to an Australian university and don't know where to start from? Let our experts guide you with the entire study abroad application starting from choosing the best course and university to getting a student visa approval.

Postgraduate Diploma Duration in Australia

Postgraduate diploma courses in Australia last from 6 to 12 months when pursued full-time. Such a time frame can vary depending on the specific field of study and the institution. However, part-time study generally extends to 12 to 24 months. This allows students to balance their studies with other commitments.

Online post graduate diploma in Australia for international students' courses may also follow these durations but offer greater flexibility, enabling students to complete their studies at a pace that suits their individual schedules.

Top Universities for PG Diploma Courses in Australia

Here are some of the top universities offering PG diplomas in Australia. These universities are well known for their top-notch courses. They provide diverse opportunities for students from abroad.

University NamePopular PG Diploma ProgrammesAnnual Fees (in AUD)
University of MelbournePG Diploma in Engineering
PG Diploma in Data Science
AU $30,000 - $40,000
University of SydneyPG Diploma in Business
PG Diploma in Information Technology
AU $28,000 - $38,000
University of New South WalesPG Diploma in Construction Management
PG Diploma in Marketing
AU $25,000 - $35,000
Monash UniversityPG Diploma in International Business
PG Diploma in Human Resource Management
AU $27,000 - $37,000
University of QueenslandPG Diploma in Applied Finance
PG Diploma in Environmental Management
AU $29,000 - $39,000

Cost of Postgraduate Diploma Courses in Australia

Getting a PG diploma in Australia has its associated costs in tuition fees, other courses, and living expenses.

  • The tuition fees all fall within the AU $25,000 and AU $40,000 per year bracket. It may vary based on the university, the programme pursued, and the field of study. For instance, business or engineering-related programmes would be at the higher end of the range, while those related to arts or social sciences stand at the lower end.
  • Accommodation in Australia can cost anywhere between AU $500 and AU $1,500 per month, depending on the province and kind of accommodation--campus, shared rental, or private apartment.
  • Food and utilities would put a dent of about AU $300 to AU $600 per month in your pocket. Now, as far as public transport is concerned, it will cost an average of AU $100 to AU $200 per month or so, again based on the city.

Scholarships for PG Diploma in Australia

Here are some of the scholarships offered for the post graduate diploma courses in Australia:

Australia Awards Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Students with high academics and relevant work experience.
  • Amount: Full tuition, living allowance, and travel costs are covered.
  • Application Procedure: Apply online through the official website of the Australian Government.
  • Deadline: Normally closes in April every year.

Endeavour Postgraduate Scholarships

  • Eligibility: Students with excellent academic records and professional experience.
  • Amount: Up to AU $75,000 for up to 2 years.
  • Application Procedure: Applications are lodged online through the Endeavour Scholarships and Fellowships online application system.
  • Deadline: Usually in June.

University of Melbourne Graduate Scholarship

  • Eligibility: International students applying for PG diploma programmes.
  • Amount: Up to AU $25 000 per year.
  • Application Process: An applicant is automatically considered for this scholarship when applying for a PG diploma course.

Transcript Deadline: Check specific programme deadlines listed on the university website.

Careers After PG Diploma Courses in Australia

The completion of post graduate diploma courses in Australia opens up a wide spectrum of career opportunities to graduation in various industries. Here is an overview of common job roles for PG Diploma graduates and their average salaries:

Job RoleAnnual Salary (in AUD)
Business AnalystAU $10,700 - $16,120
Project ManagerAU $14,000 - $21,500
IT ConsultantAU $12,500 - $18,000
Marketing ManagerAU $12,500 - $20,000
Financial AnalystAU $9,000 - $14,500

Source: Glassdoor, SEEK

The PG diploma courses in Australia offer rich, rewarding qualifications and a career of diverse opportunities. Such programmes last 6 months to 1 year. Tuition fees vary from AU $25,000 to AU $40,000, and living expenses fall between AU $1,000 and AU $2,500 per month. After completion, career opportunities are available to those graduates interested; their pay scale is also quite expected.

Let AECC experts make your way to study in Australia easier. We highly believe that our expert team will guide you into the right programmes, help you apply for scholarships, and help you with your visa process.

Nidhi Mehrotra
Published by Nidhi Mehrotra

Certified Australia & New Zealand Education Expert | Senior Manager

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With 18 years of dedicated experience in the study abroad industry, Nidhi Mehrotra is one of the most trusted and knowledgeable experts for students planning to study in Australia and New Zealand.

What truly sets Nidhi apart is her official certification as a Qualified Education Agent Counsellor (QEAC). This qualification is a seal of approval, ensuring that students receive the highest quality, most ethical advice for their Australian education journey. She has further deepened her expertise through specialised training, including a "Study Australia Work Readiness Course" and an "International Student Recruitment Partners Workshop" with Western Sydney University.

Nidhi's career has been built at industry-leading companies like AECC and IDP Education Ltd. In her current role as Senior Manager for Client Relations and Training (Australia and New Zealand) at AECC, she not only guides students but also trains other counsellors, ensuring the entire team operates with the same high standard of excellence.

Nidhi can help you with

  • Navigating the Australian/NZ System with a Certified Pro: Get advice from a QEAC-qualified expert to ensure your application is accurate, ethical, and has the best chance of success.
  • Choosing the Right University: Use her 18 years of experience to find the perfect course and university in Australia or New Zealand that fits your career goals.
  • Simplifying the Visa Process: Receive clear guidance on visa applications and documentation, a skill she has honed over many years.
  • Planning for Life After Graduation: Benefit from her specialized training in post-study work readiness in Australia to understand your career options.

When you read an article by Nidhi, you are getting advice from a certified, highly experienced professional who is dedicated to making your study abroad journey a success. 

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