Diploma of Health Sciences (Unilink) (CRICOS course code 088689A) is a Diploma delivered by Swinburne University of Technology over 44 weeks (~10 months). This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for international students seeking a pathway into health-related bachelor degrees or entry-level health roles. The course falls under the broad field of Health (0699) and is delivered at Swinburne's Hawthorn Campus in Melbourne, Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00111D), it meets Australian Government standards for international education, ensuring ESOS Act protections for all students. The indicative tuition fee is A$38,440, with no compulsory non-tuition fees, though students must budget for OSHC, living expenses, and visa costs separately. This page provides a comprehensive guide to the course structure, entry requirements, fees, and student visa considerations.
The Diploma of Health Sciences (Unilink) provides foundational knowledge in health sciences, preparing students for further study or entry-level positions in the health sector. While exact subjects are set by the provider, typical content includes introductory anatomy and physiology, health promotion, communication in health contexts, and research methods. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills relevant to public health, allied health, and health administration. The course aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) at Level 5, meaning graduates gain a broad understanding of health concepts and practical skills. This diploma can serve as a stepping stone to bachelor's programs in nursing, health science, or public health at Swinburne or other universities. International students should confirm articulation pathways directly with Swinburne.
The program runs for 44 weeks (approximately 10 months) on a full-time basis, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the course leads to a single qualification – no dual awards or embedded foundation studies are offered. Study is typically on-campus, requiring students to attend classes at Swinburne's Hawthorn Campus. International students on a Subclass 500 visa must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory attendance. The relatively short duration compared to a bachelor's degree makes this diploma an efficient pathway for those eager to begin their health career or progress to higher studies.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Health Sciences (Unilink) is A$38,440, as recorded in the CRICOS register (April 2026). There are no compulsory non-tuition fees listed, bringing the estimated total to A$38,440. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students, nor living costs (approximately A$21,041 per year in Melbourne according to the Department of Home Affairs) or the visa application charge. Fees are set by Swinburne University of Technology and may change – always confirm with the provider before applying. For the most current fees, visit the provider's website.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent English language test), along with successful completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Specific academic requirements are determined by Swinburne, and some students may need to complete a foundation program if they do not meet direct entry criteria. It is essential to check the provider's official website for detailed entry requirements, including prerequisite subjects and alternative English tests accepted. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; always refer to the institution's admissions team.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students may, however, participate in voluntary work placements or extracurricular internships independently, subject to visa conditions. All international students on a Subclass 500 visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Any work must not interfere with study commitments. For advice on work rights and conditions, consult the Department of Home Affairs.
The diploma is delivered at Swinburne University of Technology's Hawthorn Campus, located at John Street, Hawthorn, Victoria. This is a vibrant inner-Melbourne suburb with excellent public transport links (trains and trams) to the city centre. Hawthorn is home to a large student population and offers affordable rental accommodation options, with median weekly rent for a one-bedroom unit around A$350–A$450. The campus also hosts Swinburne College, which provides additional pathway support. Students will benefit from Melbourne's status as Australia's second-largest city with over 1,000 CRICOS-registered providers and a thriving health sector.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intention, meeting English language proficiency, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and showing sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term. Visa conditions must be adhered to; HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and recommends consulting a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice. For more details, visit our student visa page.
Follow these three steps to apply:
Melbourne is Australia's leading student city, with over 250,000 international students from 170 countries. The city offers a multicultural environment, world-class public transport, and a strong healthcare industry. Living costs are moderate – expect weekly rent of A$350–A$500 for a shared apartment, groceries around A$80–A$120, and a monthly transport pass about A$150. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, coffee culture, and proximity to beaches and national parks. Studying health sciences in Melbourne gives you access to major hospitals and research institutes, providing networking and potential employment opportunities.
Ready to start your health career? Browse more Diplomas in Health across Australia on HeadStart Academy or explore Swinburne's full course catalogue.
Diploma of Health Sciences (Unilink) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Swinburne University of Technology. 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.