Professional Practicum (CRICOS course code 085759E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is designed for international students seeking practical experience in the field of Information Technology, specifically under the broad category of Other Information Technology (Field of Education 029999). As a CRICOS-registered program (provider CRICOS 00098G), it meets Australian Government standards for quality and student protection. UNSW is a leading public university with a strong reputation for research and teaching. The course is offered at the UNSW Canberra campus, located in Australia's capital city. Students benefit from Canberra's vibrant student community and proximity to government and tech sectors. With an indicative tuition fee of A$14,760 and non-tuition fees of A$500, the estimated total cost is A$15,260. Note that fees are subject to change and exclude OSHC, living costs, and visa application charges. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026).
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Professional Practicum (CRICOS course code 085759E) is a Non AQF Award delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 26 weeks (~6 months). The course is classified under Field of Education 029999 – Information Technology, n.e.c., which covers IT specialisations not elsewhere classified. This program is ideal for students who want to gain hands-on, practical experience in an IT setting, enhancing their employability and industry connections. As a Non AQF Award, it does not align with the Australian Qualifications Framework but still provides valuable skills and knowledge. The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual award). There is no mandatory work component, but students may seek voluntary opportunities. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring international student rights. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is part of that trusted system.
While specific syllabus details are set by UNSW, the field of Other Information Technology typically covers emerging and specialised areas of IT such as data analytics, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and IT project management. At the Non AQF Award level, the focus is on practical, applied skills rather than theoretical depth. Students can expect to engage in real-world projects, case studies, and industry placements (if available). The program aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and workplace requirements. Graduates often pursue roles as IT specialists, systems analysts, or continue into higher-level qualifications. Since this is a Non AQF Award, it may serve as a pathway to further study or immediate entry into the workforce. The course is designed to be intensive over 26 weeks, providing a condensed learning experience.
The Professional Practicum has a duration of 26 weeks (~6 months), as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, meaning no dual qualification is offered. The course is not classified as foundation studies. There is no VET national code, as it is not a VET course. Students study full-time on campus at UNSW Canberra. The 26-week period includes contact hours, self-study, and assessments. International students on a Subclass 500 visa must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfy course requirements. The shorter duration makes this an attractive option for those wanting a quick upskilling or bridging program.
The indicative fees for Professional Practicum are sourced from the CRICOS register. Tuition fee: A$14,760. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, student services): A$500. Estimated total: A$15,260. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor living costs and the visa application charge. Canberra's living costs average around A$400–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, but this is a guide only. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with UNSW at www.unsw.edu.au. HeadStart Academy strongly advises prospective students to check the latest fee schedule before applying.
English language requirements vary by provider. For this Non AQF Award at UNSW, typical minimum IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level. Equivalent tests like TOEFL or PTE are also accepted. Prior qualifications expected: usually completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent, or a relevant diploma/degree. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry; contact UNSW for details. Entry requirements are set by the institution and may include academic transcripts, work experience, or a portfolio. Always verify with UNSW's admission office. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
No work component is included in this course. The Professional Practicum does not have a mandatory internship, placement, or work experience. However, students may choose to seek voluntary work or part-time employment outside of study hours, subject to visa conditions. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always adhere to visa conditions and check Department of Home Affairs updates.
The course is delivered at UNSW Canberra – Canberra, ACT. Canberra is Australia's capital city, known for its high quality of life, safety, and strong education sector. It hosts several universities and over 100 CRICOS-registered providers. The city has a student population of around 40,000 international students. Living costs in Canberra are moderate: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–350, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$40–60 (with student concessions). UNSW Canberra's campus is well-connected by bus and light rail. Studying in Canberra offers networking opportunities with government agencies and tech companies. HeadStart Academy's /study/information-technology/canberra page provides more details.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (at least A$21,041 per year), and OSHC. Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependents may also have work rights. All CRICOS-registered courses are eligible for student visa applications. It is essential to have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) before applying for the visa. Processing times vary; apply early. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au).
Follow these three steps to apply for Professional Practicum at UNSW: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course finder to filter by course level, field, and city (e.g., Information Technology in Canberra). Ensure the provider is registered (UNSW CRICOS 00098G). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements (English test, academic qualifications) and submit an online application through UNSW's portal. Pay attention to application deadlines and required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, UNSW will issue a CoE. Then apply for the visa online, providing GTE statement, financial evidence, and OSHC policy. HeadStart Academy is here to guide you.
Canberra offers a unique study experience compared to Sydney or Melbourne. It is smaller, safer, and more affordable, with rent about 30% lower than Sydney. The city is home to national institutions like Parliament House and the Australian National University, providing rich cultural and networking opportunities. For IT students, Canberra has a growing tech sector with government and private employers. Public transport is reliable, and the city is bike-friendly. However, nightlife and entertainment options are fewer. If you prefer a quieter, more focused study environment, Canberra is ideal. Consider your lifestyle preferences and career goals. HeadStart Academy's /states/act page has more insights.
Ready to start your Australian study journey? Explore more CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy today.
View the full The University of New South Wales (UNSW) profile →
Professional Practicum is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.