Graduate Diploma of Social Work (CRICOS course code 116824G) is a Graduate Certificate (AQF Level 8) delivered by Southern Cross Institute (SCI) over 1 year. This course is designed for international students seeking advanced knowledge in human welfare studies and services, specifically in social work. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets the Australian Government's standards for quality education and international student protections under the ESOS Act. Located in Parramatta, NSW, students benefit from studying in one of Australia's fastest-growing education hubs, with over 20 registered providers in the area offering social and community services courses. The course provides a pathway to professional roles in social work, community development, and welfare support. At HeadStart Academy, we source all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you receive accurate, up-to-date information. This page covers fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, student visa conditions, and how to apply. Remember, HeadStart Academy is a free resource—no referral fees, no commissions.
This Graduate Diploma falls under the field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (0905) with a focus on Social Work (090501). At the Graduate Certificate level (AQF Level 8), students typically engage with advanced theoretical frameworks, research methods, and practical skills relevant to social work practice. While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, graduates can expect to develop competencies in case management, community outreach, advocacy, and policy analysis. The course is designed for those who already hold a bachelor's degree and wish to specialise or transition into the social work profession. It may also serve as a foundation for further study, such as a Master of Social Work. Australia has a strong demand for qualified social workers, with the field projected to grow by 23% over the next five years (Australian Government Job Outlook). Studying this course in Parramatta places you near major hospitals, community centres, and NGOs, offering ample networking and placement opportunities.
According to the CRICOS register, the Graduate Diploma of Social Work at Southern Cross Institute (SCI) has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. This is a full-time course, typically delivered through face-to-face classes at one or more of SCI's Parramatta campuses. Australia's international student visa (Subclass 500) requires full-time enrolment, so this course meets that condition. Parramatta is well-served by public transport, with train, bus, and ferry connections to Sydney CBD and other suburbs, making commuting manageable for students.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$48,000 for the full 1-year program. Non-tuition fees amount to A$450, covering items such as enrolment, materials, or administration fees. This brings the estimated total to A$48,450. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), or the visa application charge. As a guide, living costs in Parramatta are approximately A$500–A$700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always check the provider's website for the most current fees: https://sci.edu.au/. Course fees shown are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and subject to change by the institution.
English language requirements vary by provider, but for this level (Graduate Certificate), you typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 7.0, depending on the course's demands. Southern Cross Institute (SCI) may set its own specific criteria, so it's essential to verify directly with them. Generally, you will need to hold a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. Some providers may consider relevant work experience. There are no foundation studies attached to this course, but if you need to meet English or academic prerequisites, consider pathway options like a Graduate Certificate preparatory program. Always check the provider's entry requirements page or contact their admissions team. HeadStart Academy does not determine entry requirements; we recommend consulting the institution.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. While work is not built into the curriculum, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help you gain professional experience in social work or related fields. Parramatta has a vibrant job market, with opportunities in aged care, disability support, and community services. However, work rights are subject to visa conditions, and you must balance work with your study commitments.
Southern Cross Institute (SCI) delivers the Graduate Diploma of Social Work at three locations in Parramatta, NSW: 37 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150; Level 2, 1-3 Fitzwilliam Street, Parramatta; and Level 6, 31-39 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150. Parramatta is a major commercial and education centre in Western Sydney, home to over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. The area offers affordable living costs compared to central Sydney, with weekly rent averaging A$250–A$400 for shared accommodation. Public transport includes trains to Sydney CBD in 30 minutes, plus extensive bus routes. Parramatta's cultural diversity and growing healthcare sector make it an ideal location for social work studies.
International students enrolled in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and academic progress requirements, holding valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. You must also prove financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. The ESOS Act protects your rights, including tuition fee protection if the provider fails to deliver. For detailed visa advice, consult the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Graduate Certificate), field (Society and Culture), and location (Parramatta). Verify that Southern Cross Institute (SCI) meets your criteria. 2. Apply directly to Southern Cross Institute (SCI) — Check entry requirements, including English language proficiency and academic qualifications. Submit your application through the provider's website (https://sci.edu.au/) before the deadline. You may need to provide certified documents and evidence of English test results. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once accepted, SCI will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds for living costs. Good luck!
Parramatta offers a unique balance: it's close to Sydney's CBD but with a lower cost of living and a strong sense of community. As an international student, you'll find a diverse population, many Asian and Indian restaurants, and active student associations. The city has a growing job market in health, education, and social services, which aligns well with social work studies. However, if you prefer a more metropolitan environment, Sydney CBD is only a 30-minute train ride away. Consider your budget and lifestyle preferences. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, you have options—but Parramatta's concentration of social work courses makes it a strategic choice.
Ready to apply? Research more Graduate Certificate courses in Society and Culture on HeadStart Academy, or contact Southern Cross Institute (SCI) directly for fee updates and application deadlines.
Graduate Diploma of Social Work is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross Institute (SCI). 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.