Are you passionate about sustainable farming and land restoration? The Graduate Diploma of Regenerative Agriculture (CRICOS course code 109436M) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for graduates seeking advanced knowledge in regenerative agricultural practices, covering soil health, agroecology, and holistic land management. Delivered at SCU's Lismore campus in New South Wales, this course combines theoretical foundations with practical applications to prepare you for leadership roles in the growing regenerative agriculture sector. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 01241G), it meets Australian standards for international students, with tuition fees of A$26,000 and non-tuition fees of A$2,000, totaling an estimated A$28,000. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. HeadStart Academy is a free resource helping you explore over 26,000 CRICOS courses across 1,556 registered providers in Australia.
Graduate Diploma of Regenerative Agriculture (CRICOS course code 109436M) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 1 year. This program belongs to the field of Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies (05), specifically Agriculture (0501) and Agriculture, n.e.c. (050199). As an AQF Level 8 qualification, it builds upon undergraduate knowledge to provide specialised expertise in regenerative agriculture — a discipline focused on restoring soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and improving ecosystem resilience. Southern Cross University, a government-owned institution (CRICOS 01241G), delivers this course through its Lismore campus in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, an area renowned for its agricultural diversity and commitment to sustainable farming. The course is taught entirely in English and carries no mandatory work component, allowing full focus on academic study. With an indicative total fee of A$28,000 (tuition A$26,000 plus non-tuition A$2,000), this diploma represents a significant investment in a future-proof career. Remember, Course fees shown are indicative only and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by institutions and subject to change — always confirm directly with the provider before applying.
While specific syllabi vary, a Graduate Diploma in Regenerative Agriculture at this level typically covers advanced concepts in agroecology, soil science, water management, carbon farming, and holistic decision-making. Students gain competencies in designing and implementing regenerative systems that improve land productivity while sequestering carbon and enhancing biodiversity. The curriculum often integrates case studies, field work, and research methods to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills applicable to real-world agricultural challenges. Graduates emerge prepared for roles in farm management, policy development, consulting, or further study in sustainable agriculture. This field of education (050199) is distinct from general agriculture, emphasizing ecological restoration and long-term sustainability over conventional input-intensive methods. For a precise syllabus, refer to Southern Cross University's official website.
According to the CRICOS register, the Graduate Diploma of Regenerative Agriculture is designed to be completed in 1 year, equivalent to 52 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification — no dual or foundation components are included. Students must maintain full-time enrolment as a condition of their student visa. There is no VET national code as this is a higher education graduate diploma. Study mode is typically on-campus at Lismore, though some components may involve field trips. International students should plan for consistent attendance to meet visa compliance. The 52-week duration aligns with standard Graduate Diploma timelines in Australia, allowing for two semesters of intensive study.
The indicative fees for this course, as recorded on the CRICOS register, are as follows: Tuition fee: A$26,000; Non-tuition fee: A$2,000; Estimated total: A$28,000. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for the duration of your student visa, nor do they cover living expenses or the visa application charge. International students should budget for additional costs such as accommodation, food, transport, and health insurance. For current fees and any available scholarships, visit the Southern Cross University website directly. HeadStart Academy always advises checking with the provider as fees are subject to change. Also note that living costs vary by city — Lismore offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200–A$300 and groceries approximately A$80–A$120.
International applicants to the Graduate Diploma of Regenerative Agriculture must meet both academic and English language requirements. For English proficiency, an overall IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 is typically expected, though Southern Cross University may set specific band minimums. Academically, applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification, preferably in a related field such as agriculture, environmental science, or natural resource management. As this is an AQF Level 8 course, prior study at undergraduate level is essential. Foundation or pathway programs are not part of this course; however, SCU offers alternative pathways such as the Graduate Certificate in Regenerative Agriculture as a possible entry route. For precise entry criteria, including alternative English tests (e.g., TOEFL, PTE) and academic prerequisites, consult the provider's official website. All requirements are subject to change and should be verified before applying.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. This means that the entire program is focused on academic study without a compulsory internship, placement, or practicum. While this can allow for greater flexibility in scheduling, it also means that students seeking practical experience in Australian agricultural settings should consider extracurricular opportunities or elective work-integrated learning if offered by the institution. Absence of a work component does not affect student visa work rights: international students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always check your visa conditions and consult the Department of Home Affairs for current work limitations.
The Graduate Diploma of Regenerative Agriculture is delivered at Southern Cross University's Lismore campus, located in EAST LISMORE, NSW. Lismore is a vibrant regional city in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, known for its strong agricultural community and proximity to subtropical rainforests and beaches. Lismore hosts a number of CRICOS-registered providers, offering a supportive environment for international students. Living costs in Lismore are lower than in major cities: indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom unit is around A$250–A$350, weekly groceries about A$80–A$120, and public transport is limited but affordable, with many students cycling or using buses. The campus is accessible via local transport and offers facilities such as libraries, labs, and student support services. Studying in a regional area can qualify you for additional points for permanent residency if you pursue that path, but note that this information is for guidance only.
International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration, and proving sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Under this visa, you may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Upon completion of the Graduate Diploma, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet the requirements, but this depends on factors such as study location and course level. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the most current visa information. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and recommends consulting a MARA-registered agent for personalised advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course search to filter by CRICOS code 109436M or provider Southern Cross University (01241G). Compare similar Graduate Diplomas in Agriculture across NSW and other states to find the best fit for your career goals.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Southern Cross University's official website (www.scu.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), and any other required documents. Submit your application through the university's online portal.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your student visa: Once your application is approved, SCU will issue a CoE. With the CoE, you can lodge a Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC arranged, sufficient funds, and a genuine intention to study. Check visa processing times and prepare for a possible interview.
Ready to apply? Use HeadStart Academy's comprehensive CRICOS course search to explore more graduate diplomas in regenerative agriculture and find the perfect program for your study abroad journey.
Graduate Diploma of Regenerative Agriculture is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). 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.