The Diploma of Business (CRICOS course code 079231K) is a Diploma delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification provides foundational knowledge in management and commerce, preparing students for further study or entry-level roles in business. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 01241G), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. With an indicative total fee of A$28,000 and delivery across six locations in Australia, this course offers flexibility and quality. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource, with data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note: we are not a registered migration agent and do not provide immigration advice.
The Diploma of Business at Southern Cross University is designed for international students seeking a pathway into business studies or a direct entry to bachelor's programs. This course falls under the field of Management and Commerce (08) and specifically Business and Management (0803). As a Diploma (AQF Level 5), it typically covers core business concepts such as accounting, marketing, management, and economics. Southern Cross University is a government-funded university with a strong reputation for student support. All international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. According to the CRICOS register, this course has no dual qualification component and is not a VET course. It is a single qualification delivered entirely in English.
Students in this Diploma of Business can expect to develop skills in business communication, financial management, organizational behavior, and strategic planning. While specific unit offerings are set by Southern Cross University, the general learning outcomes for AQF Level 5 include the application of technical and theoretical knowledge in a range of contexts, and the ability to identify and solve problems. Graduates may articulate into a bachelor's degree with advanced standing, or pursue roles such as administrative officer, sales assistant, or junior analyst. It's important to note that this description is a general guide; for detailed curriculum information, consult the provider's website.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time, with English as the language of instruction. There is no mandatory work component or foundation studies integrated. This is a single qualification, meaning students receive only the Diploma upon completion. Study locations include both university campuses and partner institutes such as The Hotel School in Brisbane and Melbourne. The mode of delivery (face-to-face or blended) varies by location; check with SCU for specific details.
Indicative fees set by Southern Cross University and sourced from the CRICOS register are as follows: tuition fee A$26,000, non-tuition fee A$2,000 (including materials, services, etc.), for a total of A$28,000. These fees are indicative and subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges. For current fees, always check the provider's website at www.scu.edu.au. International students should also budget for living costs: approximately A$500–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport in major cities, though this varies by location.
General entry requirements for this Diploma level typically include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. English language proficiency is required, with an indicative IELTS overall band of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Southern Cross University may also accept other English tests or prior studies in English. For students who do not meet academic requirements, foundation or pathway programs may be available; refer to the university's website for options. Note: these are general guidelines; the university sets specific criteria.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This provides an opportunity to gain part-time work experience in Australia while studying.
The Diploma of Business is delivered at six locations across Australia: Coffs Harbour (NSW), Gold Coast Airport Development Park - Bilinga (QLD), Lismore (NSW), SCU Perth (WA), The Hotel School Brisbane (QLD), and The Hotel School Melbourne (VIC). Each city offers a unique lifestyle and cost of living. Coffs Harbour and Lismore are regional centres with lower living costs (approx. A$400–500/week rent), while Perth, Brisbane, and Melbourne are major cities with higher costs. All locations are serviced by public transport. Students should consider climate, community, and career opportunities when choosing a campus.
To study this course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Requirements include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Southern Cross University, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of financial capacity, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. For detailed visa advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide visa migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Business at Southern Cross University: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS register to confirm SCU is registered (CRICOS 01241G). 2) Apply directly to Southern Cross University — meet entry requirements, submit English test scores, and adhere to application deadlines. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
With six delivery locations, choosing where to study can impact your experience. Regional campuses like Coffs Harbour and Lismore offer a tight-knit community and lower living costs, while metropolitan campuses in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Perth provide diverse industries and cultural activities. The Gold Coast is known for its lifestyle and tourism sector. Consider your career goals: specialisations in hospitality? The Hotel School campuses might be ideal. Each location has public transport access to the campus, and student support services are available across all SCU sites. Research the local employment market and accommodation options before deciding.
Ready to take the next step? Explore your study options in Australia with HeadStart Academy, the free resource for international students.
Diploma of Business is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). 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.