Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography

Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography (CRICOS 112688J)

Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography (CRICOS course code 112688J) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Edith Cowan University over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 program immerses students in the field of radiography, specialising in medical sonography—a career that uses ultrasound technology to diagnose and monitor medical conditions. As a CRICOS-registered course with provider code 00279B (Government), it meets strict Australian standards for international students. Delivered at ECU's Joondalup Campus in Western Australia, this program combines theoretical knowledge with extensive practical placement. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is part of that trusted system. Whether you're planning to work in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic imaging centres, this graduate diploma provides the foundation you need.

All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government
Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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Course overview

Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography (CRICOS course code 112688J) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) delivered by Edith Cowan University (CRICOS 00279B). This program belongs to the field of education 06 - Health, specifically 0615 - Radiography (061501 - Radiography). It is designed for students who already hold a relevant bachelor's degree and wish to specialise in sonography. The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) with a mandatory work component of 34 weeks (40 hours per week, approximately 1360 total hours). All instruction is in English. As a single qualification program, it does not offer dual awards or foundation studies. The indicative tuition fee is A$41,450, with additional non-tuition fees of A$914, bringing the estimated total to A$42,364. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For the most current fees, always check Edith Cowan University's website.

What you'll study

This graduate diploma covers advanced topics in medical sonography, including ultrasound physics, sectional anatomy, pathology recognition, and scanning techniques. Students learn to perform diagnostic ultrasound examinations across various clinical areas such as obstetrics, gynaecology, abdominal, vascular, and musculoskeletal imaging. The curriculum typically includes both theoretical coursework and supervised clinical placements, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real healthcare settings. Graduates are prepared for roles as sonographers in hospitals, private imaging centres, and specialist clinics. As a CRICOS-registered course, the program meets Australian quality standards and is designed to develop competent, ethical practitioners ready for the healthcare workforce.

Duration and study mode

The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. All teaching and assessment are conducted in English. This is a single qualification program—no dual awards or foundation studies are included. The course is delivered full-time and includes a significant work-integrated learning component. Students should be prepared for a rigorous schedule combining classroom learning, lab sessions, and clinical placements. The program is CRICOS-registered, ensuring it meets Australian regulatory requirements for international students.

Fees and costs

The indicative tuition fee for this program is A$41,450. Non-tuition fees (including materials, equipment, and administrative charges) are approximately A$914, making the estimated total A$42,364. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Edith Cowan University—always confirm current fees on their official website. Additional costs not covered include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC, mandatory for international students), living expenses (including accommodation, food, and transport), and the visa application charge. For a full cost breakdown, consult the university's fee schedule.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

As a postgraduate course, applicants are typically expected to hold a relevant bachelor's degree in health sciences or a related field. The English language requirement is an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). Some students may need to complete a foundation or pathway program if their prior qualifications do not meet entry standards—check with Edith Cowan University for specific pathway options. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their student visa. Note that these are general guidelines; exact requirements are set by the institution and may change. Always verify with the provider before applying. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the university's admissions team for personalised advice.

Work component

This course includes a mandatory work component of 34 weeks, with 40 hours per week (approximately 1360 total hours). This is typically structured as clinical placements or work-integrated learning in healthcare settings such as hospitals or diagnostic imaging centres. The placement allows students to gain hands-on experience in performing ultrasound scans, interacting with patients, and working alongside qualified sonographers. It is an integral part of the curriculum, ensuring graduates are job-ready. All placements are arranged by the university and comply with Australian workplace health and safety standards.

Delivery locations

The Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography is delivered at Edith Cowan University's Joondalup Campus in Joondalup, Western Australia. Joondalup is a northern suburb of Perth, located approximately 25 km from the city centre. The campus is well-served by public transport, including the Joondalup railway line and bus services. Perth is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. Living costs in Perth are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly expenses of around A$150-400 for rent, A$60-100 for groceries, and A$30-50 for public transport. The city offers a high quality of life, with beautiful beaches, parks, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Student visa and ESOS protections

International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study in a CRICOS-registered course and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Edith Cowan University adheres to the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which protects your tuition fees, ensures course quality, and provides a complaints process. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement assesses your intention to stay temporarily in Australia for study. For visa application assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.

Is Western Australia right for your sonography studies?

Western Australia offers a unique study environment with a strong healthcare sector and growing demand for medical imaging professionals. Perth, the state capital, has a moderate climate, diverse population, and excellent educational facilities. The Joondalup area provides a quieter suburban lifestyle while being connected to the city. With over 100 CRICOS-registered providers in Perth alone, you have options for networking and collaboration. However, consider that the cost of living is rising, and some placements may require travel within the region. HeadStart Academy recommends researching accommodation options early and connecting with current students through university forums. Western Australia is a fantastic choice for students who enjoy outdoor activities and a balanced lifestyle.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography at Edith Cowan University:

**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register to confirm that Edith Cowan University (00279B) is currently registered to deliver this course (112688J). HeadStart Academy's database, sourced from the official register (April 2026), lists 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers.

**Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Edith Cowan University's website (www.ecu.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and any other required documents. Submit your application through the university's online portal.

**Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and demonstrate financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for visa assistance.

Get started on your sonography journey—learn more about Edith Cowan University's Graduate Diploma and begin your application today.

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Source-backed course facts

Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography is a CRICOS-registered programme at Edith Cowan University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography
CRICOS course code
112688J
Provider
Edith Cowan University (00279B)
Course level
Graduate Diploma
Field of education
06 - Health
Duration
52 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$41,450
Estimated total (indicative)
A$42,364
Delivery locations
Joondalup
Work component
Yes (1360 total hours)

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee is A$41,450, with non-tuition fees of A$914, totaling approximately A$42,364. These figures are from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Additional costs include OSHC, living expenses, and visa application fees. Always confirm with the university for the most current fees.
The course is 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. It includes 34 weeks of work placement (40 hours per week). The program is full-time and delivered in English.
Applicants typically need a relevant bachelor's degree and an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). Specific prerequisites may apply—check with Edith Cowan University. Pathway options may be available for those who do not meet direct entry requirements.
The course is delivered at Edith Cowan University's Joondalup Campus in Joondalup, Western Australia. The campus is accessible by train and bus from Perth city centre.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$42,364 for Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography (tuition A$41,450). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with Edith Cowan University before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 112688J, offered by Edith Cowan University (provider code 00279B). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.