Graduate Certificate in Food Science

Graduate Certificate in Food Science (CRICOS 102631J) at The University of New South Wales (UNSW)

Graduate Certificate in Food Science (CRICOS course code 102631J) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 34 weeks (~8 months). This course sits within the field of Food Processing Technology (03 - Engineering and Related Technologies, 030307) and is designed for international students seeking specialised knowledge in food science. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 00098G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, drawing directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Whether you aim to advance your career in the food industry or pursue further study, this program offers a focused pathway.

All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government
Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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Course Overview

Graduate Certificate in Food Science (CRICOS course code 102631J) is a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 34 weeks (~8 months). The field of education is Food Processing Technology (030307), which covers the principles and practices of processing, preserving, packaging, and distributing food products. Graduates typically gain competencies in food safety, quality assurance, and production management. This course is part of UNSW's offerings for international students, and all data is sourced from the CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026. UNSW is a government-owned university with over 60,000 students, including a large international community. The Kensington campus is located in Sydney's eastern suburbs, well-connected by public transport. Sydney has over 130 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.

What You'll Study

The Graduate Certificate in Food Science covers the field of Food Processing Technology, which involves the application of engineering and scientific principles to food production. Typical learning outcomes include understanding food chemistry, microbiology, processing technologies, and quality management. While the exact syllabus is set by UNSW, students at this level can expect to develop skills in food product development, process optimisation, and regulatory compliance. The course is designed for graduates with a related background who want to specialise or upskill. Note that this is not a VET course (no national code) and does not include a foundation studies component. It is a standalone qualification at AQF Level 8, which is postgraduate level. For a full list of subjects, refer to UNSW's official course page.

Duration and Study Mode

According to the CRICOS register, the Graduate Certificate in Food Science has a duration of 34 weeks (approximately 8 months). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — it is not part of a dual award. There is no foundation studies or work component included. Students are expected to study full-time to maintain visa conditions. The course is delivered at UNSW's Kensington campus in New South Wales. If you need a longer program, consider that many graduate certificates can ladder into a graduate diploma or master's degree. Always confirm the duration and mode with the provider before applying.

Fees (Indicative)

The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$29,000, with non-tuition fees of A$500, bringing the estimated total to A$29,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change by the institution. Important: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. Sydney's weekly living costs may range from A$400–A$600 for rent, groceries, and transport. Always check UNSW's website for the most current fees. HeadStart Academy is not responsible for fee changes.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For a graduate certificate, a higher score (e.g., 6.5–7.0) is often expected. You will also need prior qualifications equivalent to an Australian bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., food science, engineering, or biology). Some providers may consider relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry — consult UNSW's admissions team. All international students must meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements. This course is for students who already have a degree and want specialised knowledge.

Work Component

No work component — this course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Work rights are subject to visa conditions and must not interfere with study. Any work undertaken is separate from the course.

Delivery Locations

The course is delivered at: The University of New South Wales — Kensington, NSW. Kensington is a suburb in Sydney's eastern suburbs, approximately 5 km from the city centre. The campus is accessible by bus, light rail, and train (via UNSW's dedicated bus stop). Sydney is Australia's largest city with a vibrant international student community — over 200,000 international students study in NSW. There are more than 130 CRICOS-registered providers in the state. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; budget around A$500–A$700 per week for accommodation, food, and transport.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from UNSW, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel, and demonstration of Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during holidays. You must maintain your enrolment and attendance. Visa conditions include 8202 (meet course requirements), 8501 (maintain health insurance), and 8516 (continue to satisfy visa criteria). For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.

How to Apply – 3-Step Guide for Graduate Certificate in Food Science at UNSW

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Graduate Certificate), field (Food Processing Technology), and location (Sydney). UNSW is CRICOS 00098G. Check entry requirements and deadlines.

2. Apply directly to UNSW: Submit an online application through the UNSW international admissions portal. You will need academic transcripts, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL), and a statement of purpose. Pay attention to application deadlines (usually several months before intake).

3. Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa: Once UNSW issues your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), you can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Provide your CoE, OSHC policy, and financial documents. Visa processing times vary; apply early.

Start your journey in food science — explore UNSW's Graduate Certificate and apply today. Use HeadStart Academy to find more courses and providers.

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Source-backed course facts

Graduate Certificate in Food Science 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.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Graduate Certificate in Food Science
CRICOS course code
102631J
Provider
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (00098G)
Course level
Graduate Certificate
Field of education
03 - Engineering and Related Technologies
Duration
34 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$29,000
Estimated total (indicative)
A$29,500
Delivery locations
Kensington
Work component
No

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee is A$29,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$500, totalling approximately A$29,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. OSHC, living expenses, and visa application fees are not included. Always confirm current fees on the UNSW website before applying.
The course duration is 34 weeks (approximately 8 months) according to the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program delivered in English. Students are expected to complete within this period, though extensions may be possible under specific circumstances. Check with UNSW for precise start and end dates.
Entry requirements typically include a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., food science, biology, chemistry, or engineering) from a recognised institution. English language proficiency is required, usually IELTS 6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Some students may need to complete a pathway program. Always verify exact requirements with UNSW's admissions office.
The course is delivered at The University of New South Wales (UNSW) Kensington campus in Sydney, NSW. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and light rail. Sydney offers a dynamic student lifestyle with numerous cultural and recreational opportunities.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$29,500 for Graduate Certificate in Food Science (tuition A$29,000). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with The University of New South Wales (UNSW) before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 102631J, offered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) (provider code 00098G). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.