Diploma of Community Services (CRICOS course code 114173J) is a Diploma delivered by Sydney College of Professional Education over 2 years. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international students. As a fully CRICOS-registered qualification, it provides a pathway to work in community services roles across Australia. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), so you can trust every detail. Whether you're looking to support vulnerable populations or coordinate community programs, this Diploma offers a structured learning experience with a built-in work component. Sydney College of Professional Education is a private provider (CRICOS 04135H) located in Granville, NSW, offering a focused learning environment for international students.
The Diploma of Community Services (AQF Level 5) is designed to equip students with the skills to work in community services, including case management, advocacy, and program coordination. This qualification belongs to the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090501 - Social Work), focusing on supporting individuals and communities in need. Graduates often pursue roles such as community services worker, case coordinator, or welfare support officer. The course is delivered over 104 weeks (2 years) with a mandatory work component of 10 weeks (200 hours) to provide practical industry experience. All instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification with no dual or foundation options. As a CRICOS-registered course (114173J), it is available to international students under the Student Visa (Subclass 500) program.
This Diploma covers core units in community services practice, including case management, legal and ethical frameworks, community development, and working with diverse populations. Students develop skills in assessment, referral, advocacy, and program delivery. The curriculum aligns with the CHC52021 national training package, ensuring industry relevance. While specific unit outlines are set by the provider, typical learning outcomes include understanding social welfare systems, applying trauma-informed care, and implementing person-centred support. The course also emphasises communication, teamwork, and cultural competency—essential for working in Australia's multicultural society.
The Diploma of Community Services runs for 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). All instruction is delivered in English, and the course is a single qualification (no dual or packaged awards). Study mode is typically full-time on campus, though students should confirm timetabling with Sydney College of Professional Education. The duration includes both theoretical learning and the work component. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions.
Indicative tuition fee: A$32,000. Non-tuition fees (e.g., materials, administration): A$1,500. Estimated total cost: A$33,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Sydney College of Professional Education—they are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For living costs in Granville/Sydney, budget approximately A$400–550 per week for rent, A$80–120 for groceries, and A$30–50 for public transport. Visit the provider's website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
General English language requirement: IELTS overall band score 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected: completion of Australian Year 12 (or equivalent) or a Certificate IV in a related field. Some providers may also require relevant work experience or a pre-training interview. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the direct entry requirements—consult Sydney College of Professional Education for details. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and financial capacity requirements for a student visa.
This course includes a compulsory work component: 10 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 200 total hours). This is a work-integrated learning placement, typically in a community services setting such as a non-profit organisation, government agency, or community centre. Students gain hands-on experience in client assessment, program delivery, and case coordination under professional supervision. Placements are arranged by the provider and are an integral part of the course, helping students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.
The Diploma of Community Services is delivered at Sydney College of Professional Education's campus in Granville, NSW—a suburb in Western Sydney approximately 25 km from the Sydney CBD. Granville is well-connected by train and bus, with Granville station on the T2 and T5 lines. The area has a diverse population and a growing student community. Sydney has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses, making it Australia's largest education hub. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, but part-time work opportunities are plentiful. The campus location provides access to local community services organisations for placements.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course (114173J) are eligible for the Student Visa (Subclass 500). Key visa conditions: maintain full-time enrolment, meet attendance and course progress requirements, hold valid OSHC for the duration of your stay, and satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You may also bring family members (dependants) who can have work rights. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice—consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for your specific situation.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Community Services at Sydney College of Professional Education: 1. Research: Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered providers offering community services diplomas in NSW. Filter by course level, field, and location to find the right fit. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check the entry requirements (including English test scores), gather your documents (academic transcripts, passport, evidence of English proficiency), and submit your application before the deadline. Sydney College of Professional Education may also require a pre-enrolment interview. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to lodge your Student Visa (Subclass 500) application, including proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE. For visa assistance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.
Start your application for the Diploma of Community Services at Sydney College of Professional Education today. Check the provider's website for current fees and intake dates.
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Diploma of Community Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sydney College of Professional Education. 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.