Diploma of Mental Health (CRICOS course code 0102145) is a Diploma delivered by Lawson College Australia Pty Ltd over 2 years. This course is designed for international students seeking a career in mental health support. As a CRICOS-registered provider (03406J), Lawson College ensures compliance with Australian education standards. The course is delivered at their Dandenong campus in Victoria, a region with a growing demand for mental health professionals. With an indicative total fee of A$22,600, this diploma offers an affordable pathway into the human welfare sector. Prospective students should note that all CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, guaranteeing quality education and student rights.
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Diploma of Mental Health (CRICOS course code 0102145) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Lawson College Australia Pty Ltd over 2 years (104 weeks). This course falls under the field of education '09 - Society and Culture' with a focus on '0905 - Human Welfare Studies and Services' and specialized in '090501 - Social Work'. The VET national code for this qualification is CHC53315. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Lawson College Australia is a private provider with CRICOS code 03406J, located in Dandenong, Victoria. The course is taught entirely in English and does not lead to a dual qualification or foundation studies.
Students in the Diploma of Mental Health gain knowledge and skills to support individuals experiencing mental health issues. The curriculum covers areas such as mental health assessment, crisis support, recovery-oriented practice, and legal and ethical frameworks. Graduates are prepared for roles in community health, aged care, disability services, and mental health organizations. This field of education emphasizes human welfare studies and services, equipping students with practical competencies to work in multidisciplinary teams. While specific units may vary, the course aligns with AQF Level 5 outcomes, including technical skills, problem-solving, and communication.
The Diploma of Mental Health is delivered over 2 years, which equates to 104 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. Full-time study is typically required to maintain visa conditions. Students should plan their schedule to accommodate class timetables and self-directed learning. As a CRICOS-registered course, the duration is fixed and must be completed within the expected timeframe unless approved extensions are granted.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Mental Health is A$22,600 total. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, making the estimated total fee A$22,600. Please note that these fees are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For current fees and any additional charges, always refer to the provider's website: www.lawsoncollege.edu.au. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting for living costs (approximately A$21,041 per year) and OSHC (around A$600–$900 per year) depending on the provider.
For the Diploma of Mental Health, applicants are expected to meet an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications typically include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may also require relevant work experience or a certificate-level qualification. Foundation or pathway options are not offered with this course; however, applicants who do not meet the entry requirements should contact Lawson College directly for alternative pathways. Note that meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are limited.
This course has no mandatory work component. While practical experience is valuable in mental health, the Diploma of Mental Health at Lawson College does not include a compulsory work placement. Students may choose to seek voluntary work or internships independently, but these are not part of the CRICOS course structure.
The Diploma of Mental Health is delivered at: 53 Walker Street, Dandenong, VIC 3175. Dandenong is a suburb in Melbourne's outer southeast, approximately 30 km from the CBD. It is a diverse area with a large migrant community and good public transport access via train and bus. Dandenong has several education providers, and the city of Melbourne is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. Living costs in Dandenong are generally lower than in central Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation around A$200–$300, groceries A$80–$120, and transport A$40–$60.
International students enrolled in this course are eligible for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, sufficient attendance and academic progress, valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. While studying, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. After graduation, students may apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if eligible. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the Department of Home Affairs website for updated visa conditions and consulting a registered migration agent for personal advice.
Applying for the Diploma of Mental Health at Lawson College Australia involves three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify that Lawson College (CRICOS 03406J) is registered to deliver this course. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements (including English proficiency), prepare documents (academic transcripts, passport, evidence of English), and submit your application before deadlines. Lawson College may require an interview or additional assessments. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to submit a visa application via ImmiAccount. You must also obtain OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity.
Dandenong offers a vibrant multicultural environment with affordable living compared to central Melbourne. It has a strong community feel and is well-connected by train to the city (approximately 45 minutes). Students can access public libraries, parks, and shopping centers. However, some may find it less bustling than the CBD. Consider your lifestyle preferences and transport needs when choosing this location. Victoria has over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, so you have options across the state.
Ready to start your mental health career? Check the latest fees and apply via Lawson College's website or use HeadStart Academy to compare similar courses.
Diploma of Mental Health is a CRICOS-registered programme at Lawson College Australia Pty Ltd. 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.