Associate Degree in Community Healthcare (CRICOS course code 107718F) is an Associate Degree delivered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) over 2 years on the Bendigo Campus in Victoria. This AQF Level 6 qualification falls under the field of Paramedical Studies, preparing students for roles in community health support and patient care. La Trobe is a CRICOS-registered provider (00115M) with a strong reputation for health sciences. As with all courses listed on HeadStart Academy, this program is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) as at April 2026, ensuring it meets Australian Government standards for international education. Explore this page to learn about course fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa pathways for your study in Australia.
The Associate Degree in Community Healthcare is a 2-year (104-week) program at AQF Level 6, offered by La Trobe University (La Trobe) at its Bendigo Campus in Flora Hill, Victoria. The course is classified under Paramedical Studies (field of education 069905) and is designed to equip graduates with practical skills for community health roles. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. As a CRICOS-registered course (code 107718F), it is available to international students seeking to study in Australia. La Trobe University has been delivering quality education for over 50 years and is one of Australia's leading public universities. All international students are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, ensuring quality assurance and tuition fee protection.
This Associate Degree focuses on the field of Paramedical Studies, encompassing topics related to community health promotion, illness prevention, and support for individuals and families. At AQF Level 6, graduates develop a broad knowledge base and technical skills for para-professional work. Typical learning outcomes include understanding health systems, communication strategies, cultural competence, and basic clinical assessment. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students for roles such as community health worker or support officer. While specific syllabus details are set by La Trobe, the course aligns with industry standards for community healthcare. This field is growing in Australia, with demand for skilled workers in both regional and metropolitan areas.
The course duration is 2 years, equivalent to 104 weeks as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, meaning no dual or integrated degrees. There is no foundation studies component. Students are expected to attend full-time on campus at Bendigo. The study mode is face-to-face with likely practical components. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire program is A$83,600, with no additional non-tuition fees listed, giving an estimated total of A$83,600. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For the most current fee information, always refer to La Trobe University's website at http://www.latrobe.edu.au/international. Living costs in Bendigo are generally lower than in Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent between A$150–A$250, groceries around A$80, and public transport about A$30. Students should budget accordingly.
Entry requirements for this Associate Degree vary by provider. Generally, international students need an equivalent of Australian Year 12 qualification with satisfactory grades, especially in relevant subjects like science or health. English language proficiency is essential; typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall, depending on the course level and provider. La Trobe may also accept other English tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) and offer pathway programs. Some students may enter via foundation studies or a diploma. Always check La Trobe's specific entry criteria for this course and consult the provider for personalized advice.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as an international student, you may be eligible to work part-time while studying. Student visa (Subclass 500) holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Any work must not interfere with course requirements.
The Associate Degree in Community Healthcare is delivered at La Trobe University's Bendigo Campus, located at Flora Hill, Victoria. Bendigo is a major regional city about 150 km north-west of Melbourne, known for its gold rush heritage and growing education sector. It has a student-friendly environment with several CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is accessible by public transport, and Bendigo offers lower living costs than major cities. Studying in a regional area may also provide additional points for migration purposes. The city has a population of over 100,000, with a diverse community and good amenities.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting health and character requirements. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory for the duration of your stay. As noted, work rights are 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. For detailed visa information, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA migration agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Associate Degree in Community Healthcare at La Trobe University: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like this one across different institutions and locations. Filter by course level, field, and city. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – Check La Trobe's entry requirements, arrange English language testing (e.g., IELTS), and submit your application before deadlines. La Trobe accepts applications online via their international admissions portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, La Trobe will issue a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, providing your CoE, OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement.
Bendigo offers a balanced lifestyle with affordable living, a safe environment, and a tight-knit student community. With several CRICOS-registered providers, including La Trobe's well-equipped campus, you'll have access to modern facilities and support services. The city's cost of living is significantly lower than Melbourne—weekly rent for a share house averages A$180, and public transport is inexpensive. Bendigo also hosts cultural festivals, parks, and easy access to Melbourne via train. However, if you prefer a bustling metropolis with more diverse employment and social opportunities, a larger city like Melbourne might be a better fit. Consider your preferences for study environment and long-term goals.
Ready to start? Explore La Trobe University's application process and take the next step toward your community healthcare career.
Associate Degree in Community Healthcare is a CRICOS-registered programme at La Trobe University (La Trobe). 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.