Graduate Diploma of Information Technology (CRICOS course code 083578D) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Central Queensland University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 program is designed for students who already hold a degree in a related field or have significant industry experience, aiming to deepen their knowledge in programming and computer science. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00219C), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. Central Queensland University (CQU) is a government-owned university with campuses across Queensland and in major cities like Melbourne and Sydney. The course provides a pathway to further study or career advancement in the IT sector.
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The Graduate Diploma of Information Technology (CRICOS 083578D) is a postgraduate qualification at AQF Level 8, offered by Central Queensland University (CRICOS 00219C). The program falls under the field of Information Technology (02) with a focus on Computer Science (0201) and Programming (020103). It is designed to equip students with advanced skills in software development, programming languages, and IT project management. The course duration is 52 weeks (1 year) of full-time study, with instruction delivered in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. As a non-VET course, it does not carry a VET national code. The indicative tuition fee is A$39,840, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$39,840. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For current fees, always refer to the provider's website: www.cqu.edu.au.
This Graduate Diploma immerses students in the core disciplines of computer science and programming. While specific subjects are set by the university, typical curricula at this level cover advanced programming concepts, data structures, algorithms, database management, and software engineering principles. Students also develop skills in systems analysis, cybersecurity fundamentals, and network architecture. The program emphasises practical problem-solving and project-based learning, preparing graduates for roles such as software developer, IT consultant, or systems analyst. As a CRICOS-registered course, it adheres to the Australian Qualifications Framework, ensuring that the learning outcomes meet national standards for postgraduate study.
According to the CRICOS register, the Graduate Diploma of Information Technology has a duration of 52 weeks (1 year) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not part of a dual award. There are no mandatory work components or foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes on campus at one of the five delivery locations. While the CRICOS register does not specify part-time options, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are generally required to maintain full-time enrolment.
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Diploma of Information Technology at Central Queensland University is A$39,840 for the full program. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$39,840. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. The following costs are not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$600–A$1,200 per year; living expenses, which vary by location (e.g., Brisbane average cost of living is around A$1,500–$2,000 per month); and the Student visa application charge (currently A$710 onwards). Always confirm the latest fees directly with Central Queensland University at www.cqu.edu.au before applying.
International students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) for this level. Additionally, applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree in a related field (such as Information Technology or Computer Science) or have significant relevant work experience. Some providers may offer pathway or foundation programs for students who do not meet the academic requirements. For exact entry requirements, including recognised English tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) and academic prerequisites, consult Central Queensland University directly. Note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; the university assesses each application holistically.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500) may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs while gaining local experience. Always check your visa conditions before undertaking any paid work.
The Graduate Diploma of Information Technology is delivered at five CRICOS-registered campus locations: Brisbane C.Q.U. Campus (Brisbane, QLD), Cairns C.Q.U. Campus (Cairns, QLD), Melbourne C.Q.U Campus (Melbourne, VIC), Rockhampton C.Q.U. Campus (Norman Gardens, QLD), and Sydney C.Q.U. Campus (Sydney, NSW). Each campus offers access to CQU's resources and support services. Brisbane and Sydney are major hubs with large international student communities, offering diverse cultural experiences and extensive public transport networks. Melbourne is known for its vibrant arts scene and affordable living options. Cairns provides a tropical lifestyle with proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. Rockhampton, in Central Queensland, offers a lower cost of living and a close-knit campus community.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from CQU, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English language proficiency. Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. OSHC must be maintained for the entire visa duration. It is essential to consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice, as visa conditions can change. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Queensland is Australia's second-largest state by area and third most populous, with over 5.2 million residents. It is home to more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The state's capital, Brisbane, has a student population exceeding 150,000, with a cost of living around A$1,500–$2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. The climate is subtropical, with warm winters and hot summers. Queensland's economy is strong in mining, tourism, and technology, offering job opportunities for IT graduates. Regional campuses like Rockhampton provide a quieter setting with lower living costs (approx. A$1,100–$1,500 per month). For students who value outdoor lifestyles and growing tech hubs, Queensland is an attractive study destination.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma of Information Technology at Central Queensland University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Graduate Diploma), field (Information Technology), and location (Queensland or Victoria/NSW). Verify that CQU is registered (CRICOS 00219C) and the course code 083578D is active.
2. **Apply directly to Central Queensland University** – Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Check CQU's application deadlines and submit through their online portal or via an authorised agent.
3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, CQU will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet the GTE requirement, have OSHC, and show sufficient funds.
Ready to start your IT journey in Australia? Explore the Graduate Diploma of Information Technology at Central Queensland University today.
Graduate Diploma of Information Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Queensland 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.