Graduate Diploma of Information and Communications Technology (CRICOS course code 116826E) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Southern Cross Institute (SCI) over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for international students seeking advanced knowledge in information technology, covering areas such as network management, cybersecurity, data analytics, and software development. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian quality standards and is accessible to student visa holders. Located in Parramatta, NSW—a major educational hub with over 50 CRICOS-registered providers—students benefit from close proximity to Sydney's tech industry. With an indicative total fee of $25,450, this program offers a pathway to IT leadership roles or further study. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource; data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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This Graduate Diploma falls under the broad field of Information Technology (field of education code 0299 - Other Information Technology, and 029999 - Information Technology, n.e.c.). While specific subjects are set by the provider, students at this level typically engage with advanced IT concepts including network design, database management, project management, cybersecurity frameworks, and emerging technologies like cloud computing and IoT. The curriculum is designed to bridge theoretical principles with practical application, preparing graduates for roles such as IT manager, systems analyst, or network architect. As an AQF Level 8 qualification, it requires a higher level of independent learning and critical analysis than a bachelor's degree. Students should confirm the exact syllabus with Southern Cross Institute (SCI), as the CRICOS register does not list individual subjects. This course is ideal for those looking to deepen their IT expertise or transition into a technology career from a related field.
The Graduate Diploma of Information and Communications Technology is a single qualification with a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is not a dual qualification or foundation studies program. The course is offered on a full-time basis, which is the typical requirement for international student visa holders. There is no VET national code as it is a higher education graduate diploma. Students should note that the duration may vary if studied part-time, but student visa conditions generally require full-time enrolment. The provider may offer different study modes (e.g., face-to-face, online) – check with Southern Cross Institute (SCI) for current delivery options. Parramatta campuses provide modern learning facilities, and the 52-week timeframe includes scheduled breaks.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$25,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$450, bringing the estimated total to A$25,450. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Southern Cross Institute (SCI). Please note: fees are subject to change, and you must confirm the current amount directly with the provider. The following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC typically costs between A$500 and A$700 per year. Living costs in Parramatta (a western Sydney suburb) are lower than the Sydney CBD: indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation is around A$250–A$350, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$40–A$60. The Department of Home Affairs recommends a minimum of A$21,041 per year for living costs. Always budget for additional expenses such as textbooks, equipment, and personal costs. For the most accurate fee information, visit the provider's website: https://sci.edu.au/.
The CRICOS register indicates an English language requirement of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall for this course. However, as a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8), prior qualifications are typically expected – usually a bachelor's degree in a related field or significant professional experience. Some providers may accept a graduate certificate or equivalent. Southern Cross Institute (SCI) may set specific academic entry requirements; contact them directly for details. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course, but the provider may offer alternatives. For students who do not meet the English requirement, many CRICOS-registered providers offer English language preparatory courses (ELICOS). Always verify entry requirements with the institution before applying. Note: meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are limited.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. It is purely academic, with no internship or work placement required for completion. However, as an international student on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays, subject to visa conditions. This allows you to gain work experience while studying. Parramatta has a vibrant job market, particularly in retail, hospitality, and administrative roles. The absence of a work component means the course is shorter and more focused on classroom-based learning. If you prefer a program with integrated work experience, you may consider other courses that include a mandatory placement.
The Graduate Diploma of Information and Communications Technology is delivered at multiple locations in Parramatta, NSW, approximately 25 kilometres west of Sydney's central business district. Parramatta is a major commercial and educational centre, home to over 50 CRICOS-registered providers, including Western Sydney University campuses. The specific addresses are: 37 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150; Level 2, 1–3 Fitzwilliam Street, Parramatta; and Level 6, 31–39 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150. All are within walking distance of Parramatta railway station and bus interchanges, providing easy access from surrounding suburbs. Parramatta's student population is large and diverse, with a cost of living generally lower than the Sydney CBD. The area offers numerous amenities including libraries, shopping centres (Westfield Parramatta), parks, and affordable dining options.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). To be eligible, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Southern Cross Institute (SCI), meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As of 2025, the visa application charge is approximately A$710. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during course terms and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks – always check the latest conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. The ESOS Act protects international students by ensuring course quality and providing tuition refund safeguards if the provider fails to deliver. All listed institutions on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring they meet these legal standards. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma of Information and Communications Technology at Southern Cross Institute (SCI):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's comprehensive database to compare courses, locations, and providers. You can filter by course level (Graduate Diploma), field (Information Technology), and city (Parramatta, NSW). Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered – all listings here are verified from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Once you've selected Southern Cross Institute (SCI), visit their website (https://sci.edu.au/) to review entry requirements, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS 5.5–6.0), and application deadlines. Submit your application along with academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and any other required documents. Some providers charge an application fee.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): If your application is successful, SCI will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs. Prepare your GTE statement, OSHC evidence, and financial documents. Visa processing times vary; apply well in advance. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and cannot assist with visa applications – seek professional advice if needed.
Ready to start your IT career in Australia? Research more Graduate Diploma courses in Information Technology on HeadStart Academy or contact Southern Cross Institute (SCI) directly for the latest fees and intake dates.
Graduate Diploma of Information and Communications Technology 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.