Graduate Certificate in Application Development (CRICOS course code 102812D) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Australian Catholic University Limited over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is designed for graduates seeking to build foundational skills in application development within the broader field of Information Technology. As a CRICOS-registered course (00004G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Whether you aim to upskill or transition into tech, this course offers a focused pathway into software development concepts. HeadStart Academy is your free resource hub for understanding CRICOS courses, costs, and visa requirements. Data is sourced directly from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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The Graduate Certificate in Application Development focuses on the principles and practices of creating software applications. While specific syllabi are set by the provider, graduates at this level typically gain skills in programming languages, software design, database integration, and project management. The course aims to prepare students for roles such as junior developer, application support analyst, or IT project coordinator. Because this is an AQF Level 8 Graduate Certificate, it expects a prior bachelor's degree or equivalent, and may serve as a pathway into a Master's degree. ACU's course aligns with industry needs in Australia's growing IT sector, particularly in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane where tech hubs are expanding.
The course duration on the CRICOS register is 26 weeks, equivalent to approximately 6 months of full-time study. Instruction is delivered in English. It is a single qualification, so you will not receive multiple awards upon completion. Classes are held on campus at ACU's Brisbane, Melbourne, or North Sydney locations. Note that part-time study is generally not available for international students on a Student visa due to visa conditions requiring full-time enrolment.
The indicative course fees as per the CRICOS register are: tuition A$19,048, non-tuition fees A$0, resulting in an estimated total of A$19,048. Please note: these fees are indicative only and subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Australian Catholic University Limited. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the Student visa application charge. For cost of living context, in Brisbane expect weekly rent around A$200–300, Melbourne A$250–350, and North Sydney A$300–400 (shared accommodation). HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting at least A$30,000–40,000 per year for living costs combined with visa expenses.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Graduate Certificate, ACU may require an IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band below 6.0) or equivalent. Prior qualifications: a recognized bachelor's degree in any discipline is usually expected. Some providers may accept equivalent professional experience. Foundation or pathway options: ACU may offer a Pre-Masters program or English language courses for students who do not meet direct entry criteria. Always verify specific requirements with ACU before applying.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are generally allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. This can help offset living costs and gain Australian work experience.
This course is delivered at three ACU campuses: Australian Catholic University-Brisbane Campus at Banyo, Queensland; Australian Catholic University-Melbourne Campus at Fitzroy, Victoria; and Australian Catholic University-North Sydney Campus at North Sydney, New South Wales. Brisbane is a vibrant student city with over 100,000 international students and a lower cost of living than Sydney or Melbourne. Melbourne is Australia's multicultural hub, home to over 200,000 international students and excellent public transport. North Sydney is a business district adjacent to Sydney's CBD, with high demand for IT professionals. All campuses are accessible by public transport and offer student support services.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition and living costs, and proof of English proficiency. Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from ACU will be needed for the visa application. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for a Student visa. Remember, HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalized guidance.
Follow these three simple steps to apply for Graduate Certificate in Application Development at Australian Catholic University Limited: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify ACU's registration (CRICOS 00004G) and ensure this course meets your goals. HeadStart Academy's free tools can help you compare options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check ACU's website for entry requirements, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS), and application deadlines. Submit your academic transcripts and any required documents online. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once ACU issues your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet the GTE requirement.
This course is ideal if you have a bachelor's degree in any field and want to pivot into IT or upskill in application development. It's a short, intensive program (26 weeks) that can boost your career prospects without the time commitment of a full master's. Consider your location: Brisbane offers affordable living, Melbourne has a booming tech scene, and North Sydney is close to Sydney's finance and tech districts. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses in Australia (April 2026), you have many options. Compare this Graduate Certificate with other IT courses at different levels to find the best fit.
Ready to apply? Visit Australian Catholic University Limited's website for the latest fees and entry requirements. Start your journey with a CRICOS-registered course today.
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Graduate Certificate in Application Development is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Catholic University Limited. 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.