Diploma of Civil Construction Design (CRICOS course code 118213G) is a Diploma delivered by Riverdale Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification, with VET national code RII50520, is offered at the Diploma level (AQF Level 5) and falls under the field of Civil Engineering (03 - Engineering and Related Technologies). It provides students with the skills and knowledge to contribute to the design and management of civil construction projects, including roads, bridges, and drainage systems. The course is taught in English and is available at two campuses in metropolitan Melbourne: Gladstone St South Melbourne and Miller St West Melbourne. Indicative tuition fees are A$21,000, with non-tuition fees of A$3,000, bringing the estimated total to A$24,000. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. International students considering this course should also be aware of the Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements, including the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and financial capacity obligations. All institutions listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian education standards and the ESOS Act.
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of civil construction design principles. Students typically learn to prepare and interpret drawings and specifications, conduct site surveys, and use computer-aided design (CAD) software for civil engineering projects. The curriculum covers topics such as road design, earthworks, drainage, and structural foundations. Upon completion, graduates are prepared for roles such as civil engineering draftsperson, design technician, or site supervisor. Note that specific unit offerings are set by the provider. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the quality standards required for international students under the ESOS Act. Australia offers over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ providers, giving you a wide range of options in civil engineering and related fields.
The Diploma of Civil Construction Design is delivered over 1 year, equivalent to 54 weeks on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Study mode is typically full-time on-campus, but students should confirm with Riverdale Institute for specific delivery arrangements. International students are expected to maintain full-time enrolment to satisfy student visa conditions. The course duration also allows for scheduled breaks, during which work rights increase to unlimited hours (subject to visa conditions).
Indicative fees for this course, as recorded on the CRICOS register, are as follows: Tuition: A$21,000; Non-tuition fees: A$3,000; Estimated total: A$24,000. These fees are indicative and set by Riverdale Institute Pty Ltd. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current and precise fees, please visit the provider's official website. International students should budget for additional costs such as accommodation, groceries, and transport. In Melbourne, indicative weekly living costs are around A$500–A$700, including rent (A$300–A$450 for shared accommodation), groceries (A$100–A$150), and public transport (A$50–A$80). Always confirm fees directly with the institution before applying.
Riverdale Institute Pty Ltd sets its own entry requirements for this course. As a guide, international students typically need an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants are generally expected to have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and some prior knowledge or experience in civil engineering or construction may be beneficial. Some providers may offer pathway or foundation programs for students who do not meet direct entry criteria. Always check with the provider for specific requirements and to ensure you have the correct documentation. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee visa approval; the GTE criterion and financial capacity are also assessed.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work opportunities can help offset living costs and gain local experience, but must not compromise academic attendance or performance. The Australian government provides clear guidelines on student work rights, which are designed to support your study experience without interfering with your primary purpose of education.
The Diploma of Civil Construction Design is delivered at two locations in Victoria: Gladstone St South Melbourne — South Melbourne, VIC; and Miller St — WEST MELBOURNE, VIC. Both campuses are situated in inner Melbourne suburbs, providing access to public transport, amenities, and the city's vibrant student community. Melbourne is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population, making it a popular study destination. The city offers diverse cultural experiences, excellent infrastructure, and a high standard of living. Public transport is efficient, with trams, trains, and buses connecting campuses to the city centre and other suburbs. South Melbourne and West Melbourne are well-served by tram routes and close to major shopping and dining precincts.
International students enrolling in this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion — demonstrating your genuine intention to study and return home after your studies; Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — mandatory health insurance for the duration of your stay; and financial capacity — evidence you can cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions, unlimited during scheduled holidays. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only. For personalised visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. All student visa holders must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course and comply with attendance and academic progress requirements.
Victoria is a premier study destination with over 400,000 international students. Melbourne, the capital, consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities. The state offers excellent public transport, a multicultural society, and a strong economy with opportunities in engineering sectors. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney. Indicative weekly expenses: shared apartment rent A$300–A$450, groceries A$100–A$150, public transport A$50–A$80 (with student concession). Students also benefit from the ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and transparent processes. When choosing this course, consider that civil engineering roles are in demand in Australia, with pathways to industry and further study. Victoria has numerous engineering firms and infrastructure projects, providing potential internship and employment opportunities.
Follow these three steps to secure your place:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Verify the provider's CRICOS registration and course details. All providers listed are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and student protections.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Contact Riverdale Institute Pty Ltd to confirm entry requirements, English language tests, and application deadlines. Complete the application form and submit required documents such as academic transcripts, English test results, and passport copy.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare for the GTE interview. Apply well in advance to allow processing time.
Start your application for Diploma of Civil Construction Design today. Use HeadStart Academy to research CRICOS-registered providers and take the first step toward your study in Australia.
Diploma of Civil Construction Design is a CRICOS-registered programme at Riverdale Institute Pty Ltd. 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.