Are you considering a career in planning and looking to study in Australia? The Graduate Diploma in Planning (CRICOS course code 088876J) is a one-year Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) delivered by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), a government-owned institution with CRICOS provider code 00099F. This course is designed to equip you with advanced knowledge in building science and technology, focusing on sustainable development, urban design, and regulatory frameworks. UTS is located in the heart of Sydney, one of Australia's most vibrant cities, offering access to world-class facilities and industry connections. Whether you aim to work as a planner in the private sector or government, this program provides a pathway to further study or direct employment. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the standards required for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy brings you this information sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
Graduate Diploma in Planning (CRICOS course code 088876J) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by University of Technology Sydney (UTS) over 1 year. This course falls under the field of education: 04 - Architecture and Building → 0403 - Building → 040301 - Building Science and Technology. Graduates typically gain specialised skills in building performance, sustainability, construction management, and urban planning principles. The program is designed for those who already hold a bachelor's degree and wish to deepen their expertise or transition into the planning profession. UTS is a well-regarded university in Australia, known for its strong industry links and practical teaching approach. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00099F), UTS can lawfully enrol international students, and all courses are governed by the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights are protected.
The Graduate Diploma in Planning covers topics within building science and technology, including building design, environmental sustainability, construction economics, and planning legislation. Students learn to evaluate building performance, apply sustainable design principles, and understand regulatory frameworks that shape urban development. While the exact syllabus varies, typical subjects may include urban analysis, land use planning, and project management. This level of study (AQF Level 8) requires a strong foundation in a related discipline and prepares graduates for senior technical or managerial roles. The course is delivered in English, with all assessments and materials in English, helping you build professional communication skills relevant to the Australian planning industry.
The Graduate Diploma in Planning is a 1-year program (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual award or foundation studies component). It is offered full-time, and students are expected to attend classes at UTS City Campus in Haymarket, Sydney. The duration is standard for a Graduate Diploma, allowing you to complete your studies efficiently and progress to employment or further education.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$42,010 per year, with no mandatory non-tuition fees, giving an estimated total of A$42,010. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is a mandatory requirement for international students, costing approximately A$500–$700 per year depending on the provider. Living costs in Sydney can vary, with weekly rent averaging A$250–$500, groceries A$80–$150, and transport A$40–$50. Always confirm current fees directly with UTS via their website www.uts.edu.au, as fees are subject to change. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are indicative only.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) for this Graduate Diploma level. However, UTS may have specific requirements, so it's essential to check directly. As a postgraduate-level course, applicants are generally expected to hold a bachelor's degree in a related field such as architecture, engineering, or environmental science. Some students may enter via a pathway program if they do not meet direct entry criteria. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider's website or contacting their admissions team for precise entry requirements. Foundation studies are not applicable for this level.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you may be eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can provide valuable practical experience in the Australian planning industry. Note that work rights are subject to visa conditions, and you should always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current rules.
This Graduate Diploma in Planning is delivered at the University of Technology Sydney (City Campus) located in Haymarket, NSW. Haymarket is part of Sydney's central business district, near Chinatown and Darling Harbour. Sydney is home to over 200,000 international students and more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant multicultural environment. The campus is well-served by public transport, including trains, buses, and light rail, making it accessible from across the city. Studying in Sydney means you'll have access to numerous networking events, industry partnerships, and a thriving job market.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, plus a period before and after. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student work rights permit 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Always check the latest visa conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; we recommend consulting a MARA-registered agent for personalised advice.
Sydney is one of Australia's most popular study destinations, with a high concentration of universities and colleges. The city offers a diverse cultural scene, excellent public transport, and a strong job market. However, living costs are among the highest in Australia. A single person's monthly budget (excluding tuition) may range from A$1,500 to $2,500 depending on lifestyle. When choosing a course in Sydney, consider proximity to your campus, housing availability, and part-time work opportunities. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, including access to complaint mechanisms. HeadStart Academy provides free, unbiased information to help you make an informed decision.
Applying to study this course involves three simple steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy's search to filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Building Science and Technology), and location (Sydney). Confirm that UTS is CRICOS-registered (00099F) and that the course code 088876J is current.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit UTS's website (www.uts.edu.au) to check entry requirements, including English language proficiency and academic qualifications. Prepare your documents, such as transcripts, passport, and English test results. Submit your application by the deadline.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, UTS will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements.
Need help? HeadStart Academy's guides can assist you at each stage, but remember we are not a migration agency.
Take the next step: research CRICOS-registered providers and apply directly to UTS. Use HeadStart Academy's free tools to compare courses and start your journey.
View the full University of Technology Sydney (UTS) profile →
Graduate Diploma in Planning is a CRICOS-registered programme at University of Technology Sydney (UTS). 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.