Graduate Diploma of Specialised Surgery (CRICOS course code 083769G) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Macquarie University (Macquarie) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This advanced qualification is designed for medical professionals seeking to specialise in surgery at AQF Level 8. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00002J), it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring access to ESOS Act protections. Whether you are an overseas-trained doctor or a locally qualified practitioner, this program offers a pathway to enhanced surgical skills within a world-class research environment. Macquarie University, located in Sydney's North Ryde, is a government-funded institution known for its innovative medical programs. Australia is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this Graduate Diploma is one of the few specialised surgery programs at this level available to international students. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Please note: fees are indicative and subject to change; always verify with the provider. This page covers everything you need to know: study content, duration, fees, entry requirements, work-integrated learning, delivery locations, student visa details, and a step-by-step application guide.
Graduate Diploma of Specialised Surgery (CRICOS course code 083769G) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) in the field of Health – Medical Studies – Surgery. This course is offered by Macquarie University (Macquarie), a government-funded institution with CRICOS provider code 00002J. The program spans 26 weeks (~6 months) and is delivered in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study options. A work component of 17 weeks at 15 hours per week (approximately 255 total hours) provides practical experience through placements such as clinical rotations or surgical observerships. The indicative total cost is A$17,690, which includes tuition and non-tuition fees set at A$0 each (note: these are placeholder values from the CRICOS register; actual fees are determined by Macquarie University). Students should budget separately for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges. The course is delivered at Macquarie University's Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, NSW. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring tuition assurance and quality standards.
This Graduate Diploma focuses on advanced surgical principles, techniques, and clinical decision-making within the field of surgery (Field of Education 060103). The curriculum typically covers topics such as surgical anatomy, perioperative care, evidence-based surgical practice, and specialised procedures. Students engage in theoretical learning combined with practical placements to apply knowledge in real healthcare settings. Graduates are prepared for roles in surgical teams or further specialisation. While the exact syllabus is set by Macquarie University, the program aims to develop competencies in patient assessment, surgical planning, and post-operative management. The course is designed for medical practitioners who already hold a medical degree and seek advanced training. It aligns with international standards for surgical education and may serve as a stepping stone to higher qualifications such as a Master of Surgery. As with all courses on HeadStart Academy, this information is based on the CRICOS register and should be confirmed with the provider.
The Graduate Diploma of Specialised Surgery has a duration of 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program delivered in English. The course is a single qualification with no embedded dual awards or foundation studies. Students are expected to commit to full-time study and the associated work component. The language of instruction is English, and applicants must meet the English language requirements (see Entry Requirements section). The program is offered only at the Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus in North Ryde, NSW. There are no online or distance options for this specific course. The relatively short duration makes it an attractive option for international students who wish to gain a specialised credential quickly. However, students should consider the intensive nature of the program, including the work-integrated learning component.
The indicative fees for Graduate Diploma of Specialised Surgery, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, are as follows: Tuition fee: A$0 per year; Non-tuition fee: A$0; Estimated total cost: A$17,690. Please note: these figures are indicative and determined by Macquarie University. The CRICOS register shows zero for tuition and non-tuition components, but the total cost reflects other charges. It is essential to contact the university directly for current and accurate fees. Additionally, international students must budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which typically costs around A$500–A$800 per year for single coverage, plus living expenses (approximately A$21,000 per year for a single student in Sydney), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). HeadStart Academy recommends always obtaining a written fee schedule from the provider before applying. The ESOS Act ensures that international students receive a refund or transfer if the course is not delivered as promised.
Entry requirements for Graduate Diploma of Specialised Surgery are set by Macquarie University. Based on the course level (Graduate Diploma, AQF Level 8), applicants typically need a completed medical degree (MBBS or equivalent) and relevant clinical experience. The English language requirement is an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) as a guide, but the university may require a higher score for this specialised program. Applicants should check the specific requirements on the provider’s website. There are no foundation or pathway options listed for this course. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting Macquarie University’s admissions office for detailed entry criteria, including recognition of prior learning or work experience. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring that their qualifications are recognised in Australia.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 17 weeks, with 15 hours per week, totalling approximately 255 hours. This work-integrated learning is likely to involve clinical placements or internships in surgical settings, such as hospitals or specialist clinics. The exact nature of the placement is determined by Macquarie University and may include surgical assisting, patient assessment training, or observerships in operating theatres. Work-integrated learning provides valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities in the Australian healthcare system. International students should ensure they have appropriate insurance (OSHC) and understand visa conditions regarding work. The work component is integral to the course and must be completed satisfactorily to graduate. Students can expect to apply theoretical knowledge to real clinical cases under supervision.
The Graduate Diploma of Specialised Surgery is delivered at Macquarie University Wallumattagal Campus at North Ryde, in Sydney, New South Wales. The campus is located in a major technology and education precinct, approximately 20 km northwest of Sydney's CBD. Sydney is Australia’s largest city, home to over 5 million people, and hosts more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The cost of living in Sydney is relatively high: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$400–A$600, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50. The campus is accessible via train (Macquarie University station) and bus services. Macquarie University itself has a strong reputation in health and medical research, with state-of-the-art facilities. International students benefit from Sydney's multicultural environment and extensive support services.
International students enrolled in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and limited work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel, and hold adequate health insurance. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. The Department of Home Affairs also requires evidence of English language proficiency. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring tuition assurance and quality standards. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma of Specialised Surgery at Macquarie University:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy’s tools to filter courses by level (Graduate Diploma), field (Surgery), and location (NSW). Confirm that Macquarie University (CRICOS 00002J) is the right fit.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Macquarie University’s official website (www.mq.edu.au) to review specific entry requirements, English language tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), application deadlines, and to submit your application. Prepare academic transcripts, personal statements, and references.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your student visa: If accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. You will need to provide proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and meet GTE requirements. Once granted, you can commence your studies.
Sydney is Australia’s premier study destination, with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a student population of more than 200,000 international students. The city offers world-class universities, diverse cultural experiences, and a robust job market for graduates. Living costs in Sydney are higher than other Australian cities; however, the city’s vibrant lifestyle, beaches, and public transport network make it attractive. Macquarie University’s campus in North Ryde is within a short train ride to the city centre and is close to Chatswood, a major shopping and dining hub. Students can also enjoy the university’s extensive support services, including academic advising, career counselling, and student clubs. Before choosing Sydney, consider its cost of living, climate, and proximity to your field of interest. For health students, Sydney has numerous teaching hospitals, including Macquarie University Hospital, providing excellent clinical placement opportunities.
A Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) is a postgraduate qualification that provides advanced skills in a specific field. In health, it may be ideal for professionals seeking specialisation or career advancement without committing to a full Master’s. However, consider the following: Ensure the course is CRICOS-registered (as this one is) to be eligible for a student visa. Verify that your prior qualifications meet entry requirements, especially English language proficiency. Assess the total cost including living expenses and OSHC. Check if the work component aligns with your career goals. Also, understand the visa conditions: work rights, GTE, and post-study work options (if any). Finally, think about location – does the city offer adequate clinical placements and job opportunities? HeadStart Academy provides data from the CRICOS register to help you make an informed decision, but always confirm with the provider.
Ready to advance your surgical career? Explore CRICOS course 083769G at Macquarie University. Use HeadStart Academy's free resources to compare courses and start your application today.
Graduate Diploma of Specialised Surgery 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.