Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science (Professional Practice) (CRICOS course code 099648G) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Murdoch University (Murdoch) over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking advanced knowledge in forensic science, combining theoretical foundations with professional practice. Located in Murdoch, Western Australia, the program prepares graduates for roles in forensic laboratories, law enforcement, and legal settings. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00125J), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. At HeadStart Academy, we source all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to provide you with reliable, up-to-date information. Whether you are exploring study options in Australia or comparing courses, this page gives you everything you need to make an informed decision. Read on for fees, entry requirements, student visa guidance, and more.
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The Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science (Professional Practice) (CRICOS code 099648G) is a one-year program at Murdoch University (Murdoch), a government-owned institution with CRICOS provider code 00125J. The course sits at AQF Level 8 (Graduate Diploma) and belongs to the field of 019903 - Forensic Science, under Natural and Physical Sciences. It is a single qualification offered in English, with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The CRICOS register lists the duration as 52 weeks. Delivery takes place at the main campus in Murdoch, WA. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act 2000. HeadStart Academy provides this information free of charge, with no referral fees or commission. Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses (as at April 2026), and this course is one of them.
This Graduate Diploma focuses on forensic science, a multidisciplinary field that applies scientific principles to legal investigations. Students can expect to develop skills in evidence collection, analysis, and interpretation, as well as understanding the legal and ethical frameworks surrounding forensic practice. While HeadStart Academy does not provide a specific syllabus, typical graduate diploma programs in forensic science cover topics such as crime scene investigation, DNA analysis, toxicology, and forensic chemistry. The 'Professional Practice' component suggests an emphasis on real-world application, potentially including case studies and industry engagement. Graduates are prepared for roles in forensic laboratories, police forces, and regulatory agencies. The course is designed for those who already hold a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as science or criminology.
According to the CRICOS register, the Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science (Professional Practice) has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification only — it is not a dual degree or a foundation studies program. It is also not a VET course, so no national VET code applies. Students are expected to study full-time on campus at the Murdoch University campus in Murdoch, Western Australia. The study mode is face-to-face, with opportunities for laboratory work and practical sessions. International students should be aware that maintaining full-time enrolment is a condition of their Student visa (Subclass 500).
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science (Professional Practice) is A$43,730, as per the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees are approximately A$365, giving an estimated total of A$44,095. Please note these fees are indicative and set by Murdoch University (Murdoch) — they are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly on the provider's website at www.murdoch.edu.au. The following costs are NOT included in this estimate: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For example, OSHC typically costs between A$500 and A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Perth (where Murdoch is located) are estimated at around A$21,041 per year (Australian Government indicative figure for living costs, excluding tuition). The student visa application fee is currently A$710 (as of April 2026). HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting an additional A$25,000–A$30,000 per year for all living and health costs.
Entry requirements for this Graduate Diploma expect applicants to hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as forensic science, chemistry, biology, or criminology. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency. The indicative English requirement for this course is IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (with no band below 5.5). However, Murdoch University may have specific English language requirements — always check the provider's website. Some students may need to complete a foundation or pathway program if they do not meet the academic or English criteria. HeadStart Academy advises consulting the provider directly or a registered migration agent for detailed eligibility. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa; you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and financial capacity requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is a full-time academic program without a compulsory placement or internship. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions. Any work undertaken must not interfere with study commitments.
The Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science (Professional Practice) is delivered at Murdoch University (Murdoch) — located in Murdoch, Western Australia (WA). Murdoch is a suburb of Perth, approximately 12 km south of the Perth CBD. The campus is accessible by public transport, including the Murdoch railway station and several bus routes. Perth is the capital of WA and has a population of around 2.1 million. It is home to over 50,000 international students and has a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Indicative weekly costs in Perth: rent A$200–A$400, groceries A$70–A$100, public transport A$40–A$60. Students can also explore WA's natural attractions, but should plan accordingly for commuting and lifestyle.
International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Murdoch University, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, and evidence of sufficient financial capacity. The visa allows work of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependants (if applicable) on a Student Dependent visa can also work up to 48 hours per fortnight. The visa application charge is A$710 (as at April 2026). OSHC costs vary by provider. For more details, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science (Professional Practice) at Murdoch University (Murdoch): Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers — filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field of education (Forensic Science), and location (Western Australia). You can use HeadStart Academy's course search to compare providers and courses. Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution — Murdoch University. Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Submit your application online via the provider's website. Be mindful of application deadlines. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once Murdoch University issues your CoE, you can submit a visa application to the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, financial evidence, and a genuine temporary entrant statement. After approval, you can travel to Australia and commence your studies.
Western Australia (WA) offers a unique study experience with a relaxed lifestyle, affordable living costs, and strong job prospects in sectors like mining, healthcare, and education. Perth has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters. The state has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers, including public universities like Murdoch, University of Western Australia, and Curtin University. International students benefit from a generous post-study work stream (up to 3–4 years depending on qualifications) and regional visas for certain areas. However, consider the distance from major eastern cities and the limited public transport in some suburbs. Before choosing, research living costs, cultural activities, and support services available at your institution. HeadStart Academy provides resources on each state to help you decide.
Ready to start your forensic science journey? Explore this course on Murdoch University's website, or use HeadStart Academy's search tool to compare other CRICOS-registered options.
Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science (Professional Practice) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Murdoch University (Murdoch). 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.