Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies (Secondary) (exit only) (CRICOS course code 0101775) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Western Sydney University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for students who have completed a bachelor's degree and wish to build expertise in curriculum and education studies without committing to a full master's program. As an exit-only course, it provides a pathway for those who may not complete a longer qualification. Western Sydney University is a CRICOS-registered provider (00917K) located in New South Wales, Australia. The course includes a substantial work component of 30 weeks, 12 hours per week, offering practical experience in educational settings. This page provides indicative fees, entry requirements, and guidance on the student visa process. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource for international students – we do not charge fees or receive commissions.
Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies (Secondary) (exit only) (CRICOS 0101775) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) offered by Western Sydney University (CRICOS 00917K, Government). The course is classified under the field of education: 0703 - Curriculum and Education Studies, specifically 070300 - Curriculum and Education Studies, n.f.d. It is delivered in English over 52 weeks (1 year) and is not a dual qualification or foundation studies program. There is no VET national code as this is a higher education course. The indicative tuition fee is A$35,079, with non-tuition fees of A$300, bringing the estimated total to A$35,379. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application fees are not included. For current fees, always check the provider's website at www.westernsydney.edu.au. Western Sydney University has multiple campuses; this course is delivered at the Penrith campus in Kingswood, NSW.
This Graduate Diploma focuses on curriculum and education studies, providing advanced knowledge in teaching methodologies, educational psychology, assessment strategies, and inclusive education practices. Students explore how to design, implement, and evaluate curriculum for secondary school settings. The course typically covers topics such as educational research, learning theories, and subject-specific pedagogy. Graduates gain skills to support student learning and contribute to educational environments. Note: This is a general description based on the field of education; for exact syllabus details, refer to Western Sydney University.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award). Study mode is typically full-time on campus. The course is not available as a foundation program. Students are expected to attend classes at the Penrith campus in Kingswood, NSW. For information about part-time options or online delivery, please contact the provider directly.
The indicative tuition fee for Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies (Secondary) (exit only) is A$35,079 per year. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, administration) are approximately A$300, making an estimated total of A$35,379. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs include OSHC (approx. A$600–$1,000 per year for single cover), living expenses (approx. A$21,000 per year as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines), and the student visa application charge (currently A$710 for Subclass 500). Always verify current fees with Western Sydney University at www.westernsydney.edu.au before applying.
Entry requirements for this Graduate Diploma typically include completion of an Australian bachelor's degree or equivalent. An English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) is expected. Some providers may require a minimum score of 6.0 in each band. Prior study in education or a related field may be beneficial. Foundation or pathway options might be available if you do not meet direct entry – contact the provider for details. Always check specific entry criteria with Western Sydney University as requirements can change.
Yes, this course includes a work component: 30 weeks of professional experience at 12 hours per week (approximately 360 total hours). This work-integrated learning may take the form of industry placement, internship, or clinical placement in educational settings. It provides practical teaching experience under supervision, helping students apply theoretical knowledge in real classrooms. The work component is designed to meet the professional requirements for secondary education roles in Australia. Check with Western Sydney University for placement arrangements and any additional costs.
This course is delivered at Western Sydney University - Penrith campus, located in Kingswood, NSW. Penrith is part of Greater Western Sydney, approximately 50 km west of the Sydney CBD. The campus is accessible by train (Penrith station) and bus services. The area has a growing student population, with several universities and TAFEs nearby. Typical living costs in Western Sydney are lower than in the city centre – indicative weekly rent for a share house is around A$200–$300, groceries A$70–$100, and public transport A$30–$50. For more location-specific insights, see our NSW study guide.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. The visa requires genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence, sufficient financial capacity, and OSHC for the duration of stay. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This course is CRICOS-registered, ensuring it meets Australian Government standards. For detailed visa guidance, visit our Student Visa Subclass 500 page. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personal advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies (Secondary) (exit only) at Western Sydney University: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm the provider is on the CRICOS register (00917K). 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application to Western Sydney University, meeting entry requirements (academic qualifications, English test scores). Check application deadlines and required documents. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE from Western Sydney University. Use it to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs.
New South Wales is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Sydney, the state capital, is Australia's largest city with a diverse international student community. The cost of living in Sydney is higher than in other Australian cities; however, regional areas like Penrith offer more affordable options. Public transport connects major campuses, and student support services are widely available. Studying in NSW gives you access to world-class education and vibrant city life. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals when choosing a location. HeadStart Academy's NSW study guide provides further insights.
Ready to apply? Start by exploring more Graduate Diploma courses in NSW or contact Western Sydney University directly.
Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies (Secondary) (exit only) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Western Sydney University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.