Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security (CRICOS course code 117456G) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by TAFE Queensland over 26 weeks (~6 months). This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for international students seeking to build specialist skills in security science — a field within Information Technology (02) focusing on 029901 Security Science. Offered at TAFE Queensland's Coomera and South Bank campuses in Queensland, this course combines theoretical knowledge with practical work-integrated learning. As a CRICOS-registered program (provider code 03020E), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Whether you aim to advance your IT career or pivot into the high-demand cyber security sector, this graduate certificate provides a fast-track pathway. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. HeadStart Academy is a free resource — no referral fees, just trustworthy information to help you plan your study in Australia.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security (CRICOS course code 117456G) is a Graduate Certificate delivered by TAFE Queensland over 26 weeks (~6 months). This program is classified under the field of education 02 - Information Technology, specifically 0299 - Other Information Technology and 029901 - Security Science. At AQF Level 8, it equips graduates with advanced knowledge in cyber security principles, risk management, digital forensics, and security governance. While the exact curriculum is set by TAFE Queensland, typical graduate certificates at this level include core units in network security, ethical hacking, security architecture, and incident response. Students develop skills to protect organisations from cyber threats, analyse vulnerabilities, and implement security strategies. The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual or foundation component). Being CRICOS-registered, it ensures that international students receive the protections of the ESOS Act. TAFE Queensland is a government-owned provider, known for its strong industry connections and high-quality vocational and higher education programs.
The Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security runs for 26 weeks (~6 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time, face-to-face program delivered in English. The course is a single qualification — it does not lead to a dual award nor is it a foundation studies program. Students typically attend classes during the week, with a significant work-integrated learning component (see Work Component section). The 26-week duration allows for an intensive immersion in cyber security topics, making it ideal for those looking to upskill quickly. Upon successful completion, graduates may articulate into further study such as a Master of Cyber Security, subject to provider credit policies.
The indicative tuition fee for the Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security is A$16,000. Non-tuition fees, including materials, administration, and other charges, are estimated at A$1,500, bringing the estimated total to A$17,500. Please note: These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), or the student visa application charge. For example, a single international student should budget approximately A$20,000–A$25,000 per year for living expenses in Queensland, depending on lifestyle and location. Always confirm current fees directly with TAFE Queensland (www.tafeqld.edu.au) as fees are set by the institution and subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides these figures as a guide sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026).
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this Graduate Certificate, TAFE Queensland generally requires an IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with no band less than 6.0) or equivalent. Applicants must also hold a recognised bachelor's degree (AQF Level 7) in a related field, or demonstrate equivalent professional experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the entry criteria — contact TAFE Queensland for details. All international students must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the Subclass 500 visa. For precise requirements, visit the TAFE Queensland website or a registered education agent.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 14 weeks, 7 hours per week (~98 total hours). This work-integrated learning typically involves an industry placement, internship, or project-based experience with a host organisation. Students apply cyber security concepts in a real-world setting, gaining practical skills and professional networks. The placement is supervised and assessed as part of the course. This component enhances employability and may lead to job offers post-graduation. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for any work that is part of the course — note that student visa work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during holidays) are separate and subject to visa conditions.
The Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security is delivered at two TAFE Queensland campuses: - Coomera Campus, located in COOMERA, QLD (Gold Coast region) - South Bank Campus, located in South Brisbane, QLD (Brisbane CBD area) Both locations offer modern facilities, libraries, and student support services. Brisbane is a major student city with over 20 CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant international student community. The Gold Coast also hosts several universities and colleges. Public transport is accessible: Coomera station on the Gold Coast rail line connects to Brisbane, while South Bank is a hub for trains, buses, and ferries. Indicative weekly rent in Brisbane ranges from A$200–A$400 for shared accommodation, with groceries around A$80–A$150. Campus-specific amenities may vary — check TAFE Queensland's website for details.
International students studying this CRICOS-registered course must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course (26 weeks) plus any applicable post-course stay. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays (subject to visa conditions). You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. The visa application charge is around A$710 (as of 2026) but may change. You will need to demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and English proficiency. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent — always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for personalised advice. Note: ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
Follow these three steps to enrol in the Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security at TAFE Queensland:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E) and course 117456G meet your goals.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit TAFE Queensland's website to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with supporting documents (transcripts, CV, English test results). You may also apply through an authorised education agent.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once TAFE Queensland issues your CoE, you can lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. If you plan to bring family members, they may need separate visas (e.g., Student Guardian Subclass 590).
Queensland is Australia's second-largest state by area and a popular study destination with over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, many based in Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Brisbane alone hosts numerous universities, TAFE campuses, and private colleges. The cost of living is generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre around A$400–A$550. The climate is subtropical — warm winters and humid summers. Queensland also offers strong employment prospects in cyber security, with growing demand in finance, government, and technology sectors. Consider your preferences for campus location, lifestyle, and career opportunities when choosing between Coomera (Gold Coast) and South Bank (Brisbane).
Cyber security is a rapidly expanding field globally. Graduate certificates are ideal for professionals seeking to specialise or change careers without committing to a full master's degree. This course suits those with a prior degree in IT, computer science, or related fields. The work component provides valuable Australian experience, which can boost employability. However, the field requires continuous learning due to evolving threats. If you are new to IT, consider a bachelor's degree first. Also, note that the indicative fees do not include living costs or OSHC — budget accordingly. Finally, only CRICOS-registered courses like this one qualify for a student visa.
Ready to apply? Start your journey to studying Cyber Security in Australia. Use our free CRICOS course search to confirm your options, then apply directly to TAFE Queensland.
Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE Queensland. 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.