Graduate Diploma of Technology (Software Engineering) (CRICOS course code 080506M) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Federation University Australia over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 8 qualification, offered in the field of Information Technology, equips students with advanced software engineering skills. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00103D), it meets Australian standards for international student enrollment and is protected under the ESOS Act. Whether you aim to specialise in software development or move into technical leadership, this program provides a pathway to career opportunities in Australia's growing IT sector.
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This Graduate Diploma falls under the broad field of Information Technology (02) and more specifically 'Other Information Technology' (0299). At AQF Level 8, the course typically covers advanced concepts in software engineering including software design, development methodologies, project management, and quality assurance. Students will gain practical skills in programming, system architecture, and collaborative software development. While the exact syllabus is set by Federation University Australia, graduates can expect to be prepared for roles such as software developer, systems analyst, or IT project manager. The program is designed to build upon prior undergraduate knowledge, offering a deeper understanding of modern software engineering practices. For a complete list of subjects, refer to the provider's official website.
The Graduate Diploma of Technology (Software Engineering) has a CRICOS-registered duration of 78 weeks (1 year and 6 months). The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification — no dual awards or embedded foundation studies. This full-time program typically requires a commitment of around 20-25 hours per week including classes and independent study. Delivery modes may vary by campus, with face-to-face, online, or blended options available. International students should ensure they maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$51,750, with non-tuition fees of A$905, bringing the estimated total to A$52,655. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Federation University Australia. Please note that additional costs apply: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$21,000 per year), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600) are not included. Always check Federation University Australia's official website for current fee schedules and any potential increases. HeadStart Academy provides these figures as a guide only.
Typical entry requirements for this Graduate Diploma include completion of a bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) in a related field, such as IT or computer science. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency, with a recommended IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). Applicants with prior learning or work experience may be eligible for credit transfer — contact the provider for assessment. For those who do not meet direct entry, foundation or pathway programs may be available. Always verify specific requirements on Federation University Australia's website, as these are indicative and subject to change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. While not required, students may seek internships or part-time work to gain practical experience in Australia's software engineering industry.
The Graduate Diploma of Technology (Software Engineering) is delivered at multiple campuses: Federation University in Ballarat (VIC) and Melbourne (VIC), Federation University Sydney (NSW), IIBIT Adelaide (SA), and MIT Sydney (NSW). Ballarat is a regional city with lower living costs (weekly rent ~$200-300), while Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide are major cities with higher expenses (weekly rent ~$300-500). Each campus offers access to student support services and public transport. Living costs vary — budget around A$400-600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport in metro areas. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, so you have many options across states.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC + travel), English proficiency, and OSHC for the duration of stay. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. All conditions are subject to Department of Home Affairs policies. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice — consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Graduate Diploma of Technology (Software Engineering) at Federation University Australia:
**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm that Federation University Australia (CRICOS 00103D) offers this program at your preferred campus.
**Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Meet entry requirements (including English test), prepare academic transcripts, and submit an application through Federation University's admissions portal. Check application deadlines and any required supporting documents.
**Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Then apply for your visa online, ensuring you include OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. You can also explore pathway programs if you need to meet entry requirements first.
If you have a background in IT and want to specialise in software engineering at a postgraduate level, this Graduate Diploma offers a practical pathway. With multiple delivery locations across three states, you can choose a campus that fits your lifestyle — from regional Ballarat to bustling Sydney. Australia's IT sector is growing, with strong demand for skilled software engineers. Consider the cost of living: Ballarat is more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne. Remember, this is a single qualification (not a dual award), so you'll focus solely on software engineering. For those seeking a faster route to the workforce, this 18-month program can be an efficient option.
Ready to start your software engineering journey? Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy or apply directly to Federation University Australia.
Graduate Diploma of Technology (Software Engineering) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Federation University Australia. 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.