Graduate Certificate of Health Services Management (CRICOS course code 112398H) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by Charles Darwin University (CDU) over 26 weeks (~6 months). This course is designed for health professionals seeking to develop management and leadership skills within the health sector. As a CRICOS-registered course (CRICOS 00300K), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Whether you aim to advance your career in hospital administration, health policy, or community health, this qualification provides a pathway to higher-level study at AQF Level 8. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,000+ courses across Australia, CDU stands out as a government university with a strong reputation. The course is delivered at CDU's Sydney campus in the heart of the city, giving you access to a vibrant multicultural environment. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you compare courses and providers, with all data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Note: This is not a VET course and has no work component.
This Graduate Certificate falls under the broad field of Health (06) and specifically within Other Health (0699). Graduates typically gain competencies in health service management, including strategic planning, financial management, human resources, and quality improvement in healthcare settings. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills to lead teams, manage budgets, and implement evidence-based practices. While the exact syllabus is set by Charles Darwin University, similar courses at this level cover topics such as health economics, health law, and organisational behaviour. As an AQF Level 8 qualification, it bridges undergraduate study and a full master's degree. Students may progress to a Graduate Diploma or Master of Health Services Management upon completion, depending on the provider's pathways. The course is taught in English, and you'll study alongside other health professionals from around the world, enriching your learning experience.
The course duration is 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program delivered in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or combined awards. There is no foundation studies component. The course is not a VET program (no national VET code applies). Classes are held at the CDU Sydney campus, with a standard full-time study load. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The 26-week duration allows for two semesters of study, typically with a break in between. Note that actual start dates and semester structures vary – always check with CDU for the current academic calendar.
Tuition fees for this Graduate Certificate are indicative at A$14,760, with non-tuition fees of A$184, making an estimated total of A$14,944. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note that fees are set by institutions and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For accurate and up-to-date fees, always visit the CDU website at www.cdu.edu.au. The indicative non-tuition fee may cover items such as student services and amenities fees. As a guide, living costs in Sydney are higher than the Australian average – budget approximately A$500–700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport.
English language requirements vary by provider; typically, for a Graduate Certificate, you need an IELTS score between 5.5 and 7.0 overall, depending on the course level. Prior qualifications expected include a recognised bachelor's degree in health or a related field, or equivalent professional experience. Some providers may also consider completion of a relevant diploma. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you don't meet the direct entry requirements – consult CDU for details. As this is an AQF Level 8 course, you generally need to have completed an Australian bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) or equivalent. Always check the specific entry requirements on the CDU website, as they can change.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. That means you are not required to undertake a placement, internship, or work experience as part of the program. However, CDU may offer optional professional development opportunities. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The absence of a work component means you can focus entirely on your studies and still take advantage of work rights to gain experience in the Australian health sector.
This course is delivered at Level 10, 815 George Street, Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city and a major education hub with over 200,000 international students. The campus is located in the CBD, close to Central Station and public transport. Sydney offers a diverse healthcare landscape, with numerous hospitals and health services providing networking opportunities. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average – consider this when budgeting. The city is home to many CRICOS-registered providers, giving you a vibrant student community. With a population of over 5 million, Sydney offers a dynamic lifestyle alongside your studies.
International students studying this course on campus will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies – you must demonstrate a genuine intention to study in Australia. Financial capacity is also assessed; you need to show you can cover tuition, living costs, and dependents' costs. The Department of Home Affairs provides full details. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Sydney is a global city with a strong health sector. Studying here gives you access to world-class hospitals, research institutes, and networking events. The city's multicultural environment prepares you for diverse workplaces. Living in Sydney as an international student means you'll enjoy beaches, cultural attractions, and a vibrant social scene. However, costs are higher – rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages A$500–600 per week. Public transport is efficient, and with a student concession card you can save on fares. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student, ensuring quality education and support services. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers across Australia, choosing Sydney means studying in a city that values education and career opportunities.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Certificate of Health Services Management at Charles Darwin University (CDU): 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare CDU with other providers offering similar programs. Verify CRICOS registration 00300K. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check CDU's entry requirements, including English language tests (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) and academic qualifications. Prepare your documents – transcripts, CV, personal statement – and submit an online application via the CDU website. Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, CDU will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. After visa grant, you can commence your studies in Sydney.
Ready to take the next step? Explore more Graduate Certificate courses in Health across Australia at HeadStart Academy.
Graduate Certificate of Health Services Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at Charles Darwin University (CDU). 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.