Graduate Certificate in Social Science (CRICOS course code 108832G) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Excelsia University College over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course falls under the field of Society and Culture (Human Welfare Studies and Services) at AQF Level 8. It equips students with advanced knowledge and skills relevant to human welfare services. The indicative tuition fee is A$10,800, with additional non-tuition costs of A$500, making the estimated total A$11,300. English language requirements vary by provider; for this course, typical IELTS scores range from 5.5 to 7.0 overall. Classes are conducted in English at Excelsia University College's campus in Pennant Hills, NSW. As a CRICOS-registered institution (02664K), Excelsia University College adheres to Australian education quality standards and ESOS Act protections for international students. Australia hosts over 1,500 CRICOS providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this Graduate Certificate provides a focused pathway for students aiming to advance in social science. HeadStart Academy's data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and reliability.
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Graduate Certificate courses at AQF Level 8 are designed to provide advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in a specialised area. In the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services, students typically explore topics such as social policy, community development, human behaviour, and welfare service delivery. This program aims to develop critical analysis and research skills applicable to roles in social services, government agencies, and non-profit organisations. While specific subjects are set by Excelsia University College, the CRICOS register classifies this course under broad field 090500, indicating a focus on general human welfare studies and services.
The Graduate Certificate in Social Science has a duration of 26 weeks (approximately 6 months) as per the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course (no dual qualification). It is offered full-time; part-time options may be available upon request to the provider. The course is delivered on-campus at the Pennant Hills location.
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Certificate in Social Science at Excelsia University College is A$10,800. Additional non-tuition fees (such as materials, student services) are estimated at A$500, bringing the total to approximately A$11,300. These fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. For current fees, always refer to Excelsia University College's official website.
Entry requirements for Graduate Certificate courses typically include a completed bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field. English language proficiency is also required; IELTS overall band score of 6.0–6.5 (or equivalent) is common for this level, though Excelsia University College may specify precise requirements. Applicants should check the institution's website for detailed prerequisites. Foundation studies are not applicable as this is a graduate-level course. Pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry; consult the provider.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to complete any work placement or industry experience as part of the program. However, international students on a Student visa may voluntarily seek part-time employment, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at Excelsia University College's campus: 1 City View Road, Pennant Hills NSW 2120. Pennant Hills is a suburb in northern Sydney, within the local government area of Hornsby Shire. The campus is accessible by public transport, with Pennant Hills railway station nearby. Sydney has a large international student population, with over 200 CRICOS-registered providers in the wider Sydney region. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; indicative weekly expenses for a single student may range from A$500–A$700 for rent, food, and transport.
International students enrolling in this course can apply for the Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa conditions include: maintaining OSHC for the duration of study, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is essential to comply with visa work conditions to avoid breaching visa requirements. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Applying for the Graduate Certificate in Social Science at Excelsia University College involves three key steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's database to filter courses by level, field, and location. Ensure Excelsia University College is CRICOS-registered (02664K). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements (academic and English), submit application with required documents, and observe deadlines. Excelsia University College's website provides application portals. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC and financial capacity.
Pennant Hills offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to Sydney's city centre (about 30 minutes by train). The area features parks, shopping centres, and community services. Living costs are slightly lower than central Sydney, with typical rent for a single room in a shared house around A$300–A$450 per week. Students can enjoy a blend of quiet study environment and urban amenities. Consider whether you prefer a campus-based experience in a residential suburb or a more central location. Pennant Hills is served by several bus routes and the Pennant Hills railway station, providing connectivity to other parts of Sydney.
Graduate Certificate in Social Science is a CRICOS-registered programme at Excelsia University College. 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.