Advanced Diploma of Marine Engineering (Class 1) (CRICOS course code 103750E) is an Advanced Diploma delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 1 year. This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to become senior marine engineers, preparing them for roles such as Chief Engineer on vessels operating in unlimited waters. Offered at South Metropolitan TAFE campuses in Fremantle and Beaconsfield, Western Australia, the course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills in maritime engineering. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00020G), Department of Training and Workforce Development ensures international students receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this Advanced Diploma stands out for its industry recognition and pathway to higher qualifications.
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The Advanced Diploma of Marine Engineering (Class 1) is an AQF Level 6 qualification under the field of Maritime Engineering and Technology (031701). This course is ideal for those who have already completed a Diploma in Marine Engineering or have significant sea service. It covers advanced topics such as marine engineering management, marine propulsion systems, electrical and control engineering, and shipboard safety. Graduates are eligible to apply for a Class 1 Marine Engineer Certificate of Competency from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). The course is delivered over 52 weeks full-time, with English as the language of instruction. There is no work component, but students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term under the Student visa (Subclass 500). All tuition is provided by TAFE International Western Australia, a government-owned training organisation.
This Advanced Diploma focuses on the technical and managerial aspects of marine engineering. You will develop skills in: planning and implementing marine engineering maintenance programs, managing marine engineering operations, monitoring environmental sustainability, and leading teams in a maritime context. The course also covers advanced thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, marine materials, and maritime legislation. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, typical learning outcomes align with the MAR60120 national training package. Graduates emerge with the ability to manage engine room operations on large vessels, troubleshoot complex systems, and ensure compliance with international maritime conventions. This level of study is recognised globally and is a stepping stone to senior engineering roles in the shipping industry.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register) of full-time study. Delivery is face-to-face at South Metropolitan TAFE campuses. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies). Students should expect a rigorous schedule with both classroom theory and practical workshops in simulated marine engine rooms. The program is designed to meet the sea service requirements for AMSA certification, though students must complete additional sea time separately.
The indicative tuition fee for the Advanced Diploma of Marine Engineering (Class 1) is A$14,910, with non-tuition fees of A$638, resulting in an estimated total of A$15,548. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please confirm current fees directly with Department of Training and Workforce Development via their website (tafeinternational.wa.edu.au). International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (estimated A$21,041 per year in WA), the visa application charge (currently A$710 for the main applicant), and personal expenses. The cost of living for a single student in Perth is approximately A$300–$400 per week for rent (shared accommodation), A$80–$100 on groceries, and A$30–$50 on public transport. These are indicative only.
Entry to this Advanced Diploma typically requires an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent) and completion of a Diploma in Marine Engineering (or equivalent experience). Applicants may need to demonstrate sea service or hold relevant certificates. Foundation studies are not offered for this course. Please refer to Department of Training and Workforce Development's official entry criteria for detailed requirements. All international applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for a Student visa.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work placement or internship. However, students may undertake part-time work subject to visa conditions: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is important to balance work and study commitments.
This course is delivered at two campuses in Western Australia: South Metropolitan TAFE - Fremantle Campus (Fremantle) and South Metropolitan TAFE, Fremantle Campus (Beaconsfield). Both are located in the south metropolitan area of Perth, WA. Fremantle is a vibrant port city with a strong maritime heritage, while Beaconsfield is a nearby suburb. Perth has a large international student community, with over 50,000 students from around the world. Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers, and Western Australia is home to many, offering excellent study environments. Public transport (bus and train) connects both campuses to Perth city centre and surrounding areas.
To study this course in Australia, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows Full-time study, work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks), and dependant family members to accompany you. You must enrol in a CRICOS-registered course (this one is), maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Financial capacity must be demonstrated to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For detailed guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. Under the ESOS Act, international students have legal protections, including clear information on fees and refunds.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Advanced Diploma of Marine Engineering (Class 1) at Department of Training and Workforce Development: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Advanced Diploma), field (Maritime Engineering), and location (WA). Check CRICOS 00020G for Department of Training and Workforce Development. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Visit tafeinternational.wa.edu.au to review entry requirements (including English test scores), prepare your documents, and submit an application before the deadline. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE, which you use to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to start your marine engineering career? Explore this CRICOS-registered course and apply through the provider's website today.
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Advanced Diploma of Marine Engineering (Class 1) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Training and Workforce Development. 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.