Diploma of Horticulture Management (CRICOS course code 117143B) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year. This nationally recognised qualification (VET national code AHC50422) equips students with advanced skills in managing horticultural enterprises, including plant production, landscape management, and business operations. As Australia’s agricultural and horticultural sectors continue to grow, trained managers are in high demand across nurseries, parks, vineyards, and urban green spaces. TAFE SA, a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider (00092B), delivers this course at its Urrbrae Campus in Netherby, Adelaide. With a tuition fee of A$10,895 and no additional non-tuition fees, this Diploma offers an affordable pathway to a rewarding career. All international students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. Whether you aim to manage a commercial nursery, lead a landscaping team, or start your own agribusiness, this course provides the practical and theoretical foundation you need.
Diploma of Horticulture Management (CRICOS course code 117143B) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year. This qualification sits at AQF Level 5 and is classified under the field of Horticulture (050301). It is designed for students who already have some background in horticulture or related fields and wish to move into supervisory or management roles. The course is taught in English and does not include a mandatory work component. It is a single qualification only, with no dual or foundation study options. TAFE SA is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation for vocational training. Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, offers a vibrant student community with over 30,000 international students and more than 25 CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Adelaide are lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$300–A$400, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$40–A$60. The Urrbrae Campus is accessible via bus routes and the Adelaide Metro network.
This Diploma covers the essential knowledge and skills required to manage horticultural operations. Students learn about plant biology, soil health, pest and disease management, irrigation systems, and sustainable practices. On the business side, the course includes financial planning, team leadership, workplace health and safety, and project management. Graduates are prepared to take on roles such as horticulture manager, nursery supervisor, landscape contractor, or vineyard manager. While the exact syllabus is set by TAFE SA, typical learning outcomes include developing a horticulture business plan, implementing integrated pest management strategies, and supervising staff. The course combines classroom theory with practical sessions at the Urrbrae Campus, which features extensive horticulture facilities including glasshouses, nursery beds, and demonstration gardens. This hands-on approach ensures students gain real-world experience relevant to Australian industry standards.
According to the CRICOS register, Diploma of Horticulture Management (117143B) has a duration of 1 year, equivalent to 52 weeks of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course, meaning it does not lead to a dual award or include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes and practical sessions on campus. The course is not offered online. Full-time study typically involves 20–25 contact hours per week, plus additional self-study. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The course structure allows students to complete the Diploma in one academic year, enabling them to progress quickly to employment or further study.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$10,895 for the full 52-week period. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register. Therefore, the estimated total fee is A$10,895. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs between A$500 and A$700 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Adelaide are approximately A$20,000–A$25,000 per year, including accommodation, food, and transport. The visa application fee for Subclass 500 is currently A$1,600 (subject to change). Always confirm current fees with TAFE SA by visiting their official international website. Fees are set by the institution and may change – the CRICOS register data is as at April 2026. TAFE SA may offer payment plans or scholarships; check directly for options.
For Diploma of Horticulture Management, a typical English language requirement is IELTS overall band score of 5.5–6.0, or equivalent. Applicants are expected to have completed Australian Year 12 or an equivalent qualification, and may need to demonstrate prior study or experience in horticulture or a related field. Some students may enter via a Certificate IV in Horticulture or a similar pathway. TAFE SA will assess each application individually. If you do not meet the English or academic requirements, TAFE SA may offer foundation or pathway programs – contact them for options. All international applicants must comply with the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for the Student visa. Note that this is a general guide; exact requirements are set by the provider and should be confirmed during the application process.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. This course's academic calendar typically includes breaks, allowing students to seek part-time employment in Adelaide's hospitality, retail, or horticulture sectors. While the course itself does not require work, students are encouraged to gain industry experience through casual or seasonal jobs to supplement their learning. Adelaide's labour market has opportunities in horticulture, especially during harvest seasons. Always check visa conditions before commencing work.
Diploma of Horticulture Management is delivered at Urrbrae Campus, located in Netherby, South Australia. Netherby is a suburb approximately 5 km from Adelaide's city centre, easily accessible by public transport. The campus is part of TAFE SA's network and features dedicated horticulture facilities. Adelaide, the state capital, is home to over 1.3 million people and has a significant student population, with more than 30,000 international students from over 100 countries. The city offers a balanced lifestyle with affordable living costs, a Mediterranean climate, and proximity to world-famous wine regions and natural attractions. Studying in South Australia means you can explore the Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills, and Fleurieu Peninsula – ideal for horticulture enthusiasts. The state has over 25 CRICOS-registered providers offering a range of courses. For more information on studying in SA, visit our SA study guide.
International students studying Diploma of Horticulture Management (CRICOS 117143B) at TAFE SA will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus additional time after completion. Key conditions include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet satisfactory course progress and attendance, hold valid OSHC, and not work more than 48 hours per fortnight during term. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence is required – you must show you can cover tuition, living costs (A$20,000+ per year), OSHC, and travel. After graduation, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) to work in Australia. HeadStart Academy provides guidance only; for visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au). All students are protected under the ESOS Act.
Follow these three steps to apply for this course at TAFE SA: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to compare Diploma courses in Horticulture across providers. Confirm that TAFE SA (CRICOS 00092B) offers the course that matches your career goals. 2. Apply directly to TAFE SA – Visit the TAFE SA international website (tafesa.edu.au/international) to review entry requirements, upload your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any supporting documents. Pay attention to application deadlines and intake dates (typically February and July). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once TAFE SA approves your application, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for the Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC arranged. HeadStart Academy can guide you through the process but does not provide migration advice.
South Australia offers a unique study experience with a strong focus on agriculture and horticulture. Adelaide is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities, with a low cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne. The state has a thriving food and wine industry, making it ideal for students interested in horticulture management. Public transport is affordable, and the city is bike-friendly. Adelaide's job market for horticulture managers is growing, with opportunities in viticulture, nursery production, and local government. However, if you prefer a larger city with more international student communities, you might consider providers in New South Wales or Victoria. Ultimately, studying in SA gives you access to high-quality vocational education at institutions like TAFE SA, combined with a relaxed lifestyle. Check our SA state page for more details on lifestyle and costs.
Start your application to Diploma of Horticulture Management at TAFE SA today. Visit their international website for the latest fee information and intake dates.
Diploma of Horticulture Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE SA. 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.