Diploma of Health (Higher Education) (CRICOS course code 115257H) is a Diploma delivered by Federation University Australia over 1 year. This course, classified under the field of General Nursing (060301), provides foundational knowledge for students aiming to pursue careers in health or further studies in nursing, allied health, or public health. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00103D), it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality and protections under the ESOS Act. Federation University Australia is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation for regional and metropolitan education. With campuses in Ballarat, Berwick, and Churchill (Gippsland), students can choose a location that suits their lifestyle. Australia offers over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ CRICOS-registered providers, and HeadStart Academy is here to help you find the right fit. All information on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
The Diploma of Health (Higher Education) (CRICOS 115257H) is an AQF Level 5 qualification designed to equip students with essential skills in health and nursing. This course does not include a mandatory work component, focusing instead on theoretical and practical foundations. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and is taught entirely in English. Field of education 060301 (General Nursing) covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, healthcare systems, and patient care principles. Graduates may progress to bachelor degrees or enter the workforce in roles such as assistant in nursing or health services support. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and transparent fee structures.
While specific curriculum details are set by Federation University Australia, this diploma level (AQF Level 5) typically develops skills in health assessment, communication, infection control, and ethical decision-making. Students gain an understanding of the Australian healthcare system and cultural safety in practice. The course is a stepping stone to further studies in nursing (Bachelor of Nursing) or other health disciplines. Given its classification under General Nursing, you can expect foundational content relevant to patient care and health promotion. For the exact syllabus, contact the provider directly or visit federation.edu.au.
According to the CRICOS register, the Diploma of Health (Higher Education) runs for 52 weeks (1 year) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — it is not a dual award or combined with foundation studies. No VET national code applies as this is a higher education course. Students are expected to attend classes regularly; online or blended options may be available — confirm with Federation University Australia.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$38,000, with non-tuition fees of A$885, giving an estimated total of A$38,885. Note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are set by Federation University Australia. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees, always visit the provider's website (federation.edu.au). Living costs in Victoria vary: in Ballarat, weekly rent may be around $200–$350; in metro areas like Berwick, $250–$400; and in Churchill (Gippsland) $200–$300. Budgeting for groceries ($80–$150/week) and transport ($30–$50/week) is recommended. All figures are indicative only.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) and completion of Australian Year 12 or overseas equivalent. Some prior study in health or science may be advantageous. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry — check with Federation University Australia. Specific entry requirements are set by the provider and may change; always verify before applying.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, as a student visa holder (Subclass 500), you are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights can help offset living costs but should not interfere with study commitments.
The Diploma of Health (Higher Education) is delivered at three campuses of Federation University Australia: Ballarat (main campus), Berwick (south-east Melbourne), and Churchill (Gippsland). Ballarat is a regional city with a vibrant student community, lower cost of living compared to Melbourne, and good public transport. Berwick offers proximity to Melbourne's amenities with a suburban feel. Churchill is in the Latrobe Valley, known for its natural beauty and affordable housing. Each campus provides library, student support, and health services. International students can choose based on preference — regional campuses often offer additional points for post-study work visas. All campuses are CRICOS-registered locations.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration of your stay, and English proficiency evidence. While on a student visa, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during breaks. The ESOS Act protects international students, including tuition assurance if the provider closes. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current visa conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a MARA agent; we recommend consulting a registered migration agent for personal advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Health (Higher Education) at Federation University Australia: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. Confirm that Federation University Australia (00103D) and this course (115257H) meet your needs. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, including English test scores and academic qualifications. Submit your application via the provider's online portal or through an authorised education agent. Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once you have a CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Await visa grant before travelling.
Victoria is a top destination for international students, with Melbourne consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. Regional campuses like those in Ballarat and Churchill offer a quieter lifestyle with lower costs. The state has a strong healthcare sector, providing opportunities for work placements and networking. Over 300 CRICOS-registered providers operate in Victoria, offering courses from diploma to PhD levels. When choosing a location, consider factors like climate, transport, and community. Ballarat is known for its gold rush history and cool winters; Berwick is a growing suburb with good schools; Churchill is close to national parks and the coast. Each campus offers student accommodation and support services.
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Diploma of Health (Higher Education) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Federation University Australia. 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.