Graduate Certificate of Environment (CRICOS course code 083748B) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is designed for international students seeking advanced knowledge in environmental studies, a field critical to Australia's growing sustainability and conservation sectors. Based at the Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde in Sydney, this course is registered on CRICOS, the official Australian Government register that ensures quality standards for international education. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Macquarie University meets strict ESOS Act protections, giving you legal safeguards during your studies. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses across Australia, this is one of many pathways to a globally recognized qualification.
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Graduate Certificate of Environment (CRICOS course code 083748B) is a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8) offered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) (CRICOS 00002J, Government). The program runs for 26 weeks (approximately 6 months) and is taught entirely in English. It falls under the field of education 05 - Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies, specifically 0509 - Environmental Studies. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study options. The course does not include a mandatory work component. For further details on CRICOS registration and what it means for your study rights, visit our glossary page.
This Graduate Certificate provides foundational and intermediate knowledge in environmental studies, covering areas such as sustainability, environmental policy, ecosystem management, and climate change adaptation. At AQF Level 8, graduates develop advanced cognitive, technical, and communication skills to analyze environmental issues and propose evidence-based solutions. While specific subjects are set by Macquarie University, typical learning outcomes include critical evaluation of environmental data, understanding regulatory frameworks, and applying ethical decision-making in environmental contexts. This qualification can serve as a stepping stone to a master's degree or enhance career prospects in government, NGOs, or the private sector.
The Graduate Certificate of Environment is 26 weeks in duration, typically studied full-time. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual award) and no foundation studies are included. Study mode is usually on-campus at the Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus, although some components may be delivered online. For international students, full-time enrollment is a condition of the Student visa (Subclass 500). The CRICOS register records this course as 26 weeks, so you can plan your visa duration accordingly.
Tuition fees for this course are A$23,500 (indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, administration) are A$187, bringing the estimated total to A$23,687. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (including weekly rent in Sydney, groceries, and transport), and the visa application charge are not included. Sydney living costs are among the highest in Australia; budget for approximately A$500–A$700 per week for rent, food, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Macquarie University, as they are subject to change. For more on OSHC, see our dedicated page.
English language requirements vary by provider and course level. For this Graduate Certificate, typical IELTS scores range from 6.0 to 7.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected include a bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., environmental science, geography, or engineering) or relevant work experience. Macquarie University may offer pathway options such as a Graduate Diploma for students who need additional preparation. Always check the provider's official entry requirements and any prerequisite subjects. If your English level is below the requirement, consider an English language course or foundation program.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student holding a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain work experience in Sydney's environmental sector, such as sustainability consulting, national parks, or environmental planning. Work rights are subject to visa conditions; always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current rules.
This course is delivered at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, New South Wales. This campus is located in Sydney's northern suburbs, approximately 15 km from the city center. The campus is well connected by public transport, including the Macquarie University train station (Sydney Metro) and several bus routes. Sydney is home to over 200,000 international students and hosts many CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; rent for a one-bedroom apartment near campus may range from A$400 to A$600 per week. For more on studying in New South Wales, see our state guide.
International students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Macquarie University, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) evidence, OSHC for the duration of study, and proof of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (at least A$24,505 per year as of April 2026), and travel. You must maintain enrollment in a full-time CRICOS-registered course and meet attendance and academic progress requirements. ESOS Act protections ensure you have access to refund policies, complaint processes, and support services. For detailed visa guidance, visit our Student Visa page. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Sydney offers a vibrant multicultural environment with excellent career opportunities in environmental sectors, but it comes with a high cost of living. Average weekly rent for a shared house is around A$350–A$500 per person, groceries about A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50. The city enjoys a temperate climate, with summers reaching 30°C and mild winters. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences before choosing Sydney. For a lower cost of living, other Australian cities may be more affordable. Our state and city guides provide more details.
How to apply in 3 steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level (Graduate Certificate), field (Environmental Studies), and city (Sydney) on HeadStart Academy. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to Macquarie University: Check entry requirements (including English test scores), prepare your academic transcripts, and submit an online application before the deadline. Macquarie may charge an application fee. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Macquarie will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online, including GTE, OSHC, and financial evidence. For visa help, visit our Student Visa page or consult a registered migration agent.
Graduate Certificate of Environment is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macquarie University (Macquarie). 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.