Diploma of Agriculture (CRICOS course code 092578G) is a Diploma delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification equips students with advanced skills in agricultural production, property management, and sustainable farming practices. Located in Victoria, Melbourne Polytechnic is a government-owned TAFE institute with a strong reputation for hands-on training and industry partnerships. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00724G), it is authorised to enrol international students under the ESOS Act. Whether you aim to manage a farm, run an agribusiness, or pursue further study, this course offers a pathway to diverse career opportunities in Australia's thriving agriculture sector.
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Diploma of Agriculture (CRICOS course code 092578G) is a Diploma delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). The course is classified under Field of Education 05 - Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies, specifically 050199 Agriculture, n.e.c. The VET national code is AHC50116. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and does not include a mandatory work component. The language of instruction is English. Tuition fees are indicative at A$20,004, with non-tuition fees of A$65, totalling approximately A$20,069. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For the most current fees, always check Melbourne Polytechnic's website. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
The Diploma of Agriculture focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of agricultural production, property management, and business planning. Students typically develop competencies in crop and livestock management, soil and water conservation, agricultural marketing, financial budgeting, and workplace health and safety. The course also emphasises sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship. While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, graduates at this level are prepared to take on supervisory or management roles in agricultural enterprises, or to pursue further studies at the Advanced Diploma or Bachelor level. This field of education is vital to Australia's economy, with agriculture contributing over A$60 billion annually to GDP.
The Diploma of Agriculture is delivered over 1 year 6 months or approximately 78 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. There is no work component included, meaning the course is purely academic with no mandatory industrial placement. It is a single qualification (not a dual award or foundation studies program). Study mode: full-time classroom and practical sessions at the specified campuses. International students should note that maintaining full-time enrolment is a condition of the Student visa (Subclass 500).
Tuition fees for the Diploma of Agriculture are indicative at A$20,004, with a compulsory non-tuition fee of A$65, bringing the estimated total to A$20,069. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are set by Melbourne Polytechnic. They may change without notice. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (estimated at around A$29,710 per year for a single student in Victoria according to the Department of Home Affairs), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for the main applicant). For the most accurate and up-to-date fee schedule, always verifiy directly with Melbourne Polytechnic's website.
International students must meet both academic and English language requirements. The indicative English requirement is IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected for this level: completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent, or a Certificate IV in a related field. Melbourne Polytechnic may also consider relevant work experience. Foundation/pathway options are available for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements — refer to the provider for details. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion as part of the student visa process. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake a workplace learning or internship as part of the program. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can provide valuable industry exposure and supplement living costs.
The Diploma of Agriculture is delivered at two campuses in Victoria: Epping Campus in Epping (northern suburb of Melbourne) and Northern Lodge - Eden Park in Eden Park (rural area near Whittlesea). Epping is approximately 20 km north of Melbourne's CBD, accessible by public transport (train and bus). Eden Park is a semi-rural location about 40 km north-east of Melbourne, requiring a car for convenient access. Both campuses offer specialised facilities for agricultural training. Victoria is home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering agriculture-related courses, and Melbourne's student population exceeds 250,000 international students, making it a vibrant and supportive study destination.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Melbourne Polytechnic, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, valid passport, proof of English proficiency, sufficient funds (tuition, living costs, OSHC), and Overseas Student Health Cover. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependents may accompany with Subclass 500 or 590 visas. All courses listed are ESOS Act protected, meaning you have legal rights including course refunds and access to complaints mechanisms. For detailed visa guidance, visit Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered MARA agent.
To apply for the Diploma of Agriculture at Melbourne Polytechnic, follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (Agriculture), and location (Victoria). Compare offerings, fees, and campus locations. Ensure your chosen provider is CRICOS-registered (check Melbourne Polytechnic's code 00724G).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Meet the entry requirements (academic qualifications, English test scores like IELTS 5.5-6.0, and any prerequisites). Submit your application online or through the provider's international office. Note application deadlines — typically 6–8 weeks before course start.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, Melbourne Polytechnic will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include all supporting documents, evidence of funds, and OSHC policy. Visa processing times vary; apply early.
Victoria is one of Australia's most popular study destinations for international students, with over 250,000 enrolments from overseas. Melbourne consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities. The state has a strong agricultural sector, with dairy, horticulture, and livestock farming prominent in regional areas. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney: indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation is around A$200–300, groceries A$70–100, and a monthly public transport pass (Myki) around A$150. Regional campuses like Eden Park offer lower rent but require a car. Victoria has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses nationwide — you'll find many options for agriculture and related fields.
Ready to start your agriculture career in Victoria? Explore more Diploma courses or connect with Melbourne Polytechnic directly to begin your application.
Diploma of Agriculture is a CRICOS-registered programme at Melbourne Polytechnic. 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.