Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) (CRICOS course code 118448K) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited over 2 years. This AQF Level 8 qualification focuses on Education (Teacher Education), equipping students with advanced skills in leadership, strategic management, and learning facilitation. Mercury Colleges, a private CRICOS-registered provider (00172B), delivers this course at its Sydney campuses, offering international students a pathway to senior management roles in educational or training settings. The course is designed to build on prior undergraduate or vocational experience, deepening understanding of organisational learning and development. With no mandatory work component, students can focus on academic study while optionally gaining local work experience within visa limits. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students benefit from ESOS Act protections and the quality assurance of the Australian education system.
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This Graduate Diploma falls under the field of 07 Education (Teacher Education). Students explore contemporary theories of learning, leadership in education, and strategies for managing training and development programs. Typical learning outcomes include the ability to analyse and improve learning practices, design curricula, and evaluate organisational learning effectiveness. The course emphasises both theoretical foundations and practical application, preparing graduates for roles such as training manager, learning and development consultant, or educational leader. While the specific syllabus is set by Mercury Colleges, the broader field prepares students to adapt learning strategies across diverse contexts, including corporate training and vocational education. This level of study (AQF Level 8) assumes prior knowledge from a bachelor's degree or equivalent, allowing for deeper specialisation in management and leadership within learning environments.
The course is scheduled over 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register), reflecting a full-time international student load. All instruction is in English, and it is offered as a single qualification with no dual or combined award. Students are expected to commit to the full duration to meet visa conditions and graduation requirements. The standard study load aligns with the requirements of the Student Visa (Subclass 500), which typically mandates 20 hours per week of scheduled classes. Part-time study is not permitted for international students, except in limited circumstances. Mercury Colleges may offer different intake periods; contact the provider for exact commencement dates.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$20,000, with non-tuition fees of A$500, bringing the estimated total to A$20,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge (currently approximately A$710 for a Subclass 500 visa). OSHC is mandatory for international students and typically costs between A$500 and A$1,000 per year depending on the provider and coverage level. Living costs in Sydney are estimated at around A$25,000–30,000 per year, covering accommodation, food, transport, and other essentials. Always verify current fees with Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited via their website www.mercurycolleges.nsw.edu.au before applying.
Entry requirements are set by Mercury Colleges. For this Graduate Diploma level, applicants are typically expected to hold a Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification. English language proficiency is required, with a recommended IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may accept alternative English tests such as TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English. Additionally, relevant work experience in a management or training role may be considered. There are no foundation studies linked to this course; however, applicants who do not meet direct entry requirements should consult the provider for possible pathways. Note that meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission — each application is assessed individually. For precise details, contact Mercury Colleges directly.
This course has no mandatory work component. International students on a Student Visa (Subclass 500) can still work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. This flexibility allows students to gain work experience in the education sector or other industries while studying. However, the course itself does not include an internship or placement, so any work is solely at the student's initiative. Always check your visa conditions to avoid exceeding work limits.
Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited delivers this course at two locations in Sydney's central business district: Level 5, 245 Castlereagh St, and Levels 1 & 2, 245-247 Castlereagh Street. Both are within walking distance of Town Hall and Central stations, making them easily accessible via train, bus, and light rail. Sydney is the largest city in Australia, home to over 5 million people and a vibrant international student community. The city has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers (as at April 2026) across all study levels, offering more than 26,000 courses. Living in Sydney offers a rich cultural experience but comes with a higher cost of living — indicative weekly rent for a room in the city is around A$350–600, groceries A$80–120, and public transport A$40–60. Despite the cost, Sydney's educational opportunities and lifestyle attract many international students.
To study this course as an international student, you will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa requires you to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course (like this one), maintain valid OSHC coverage, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion is also assessed — you must show that your stay in Australia is primarily for study. While on this visa, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled holidays. After completing the Graduate Diploma, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) if you meet post-study work criteria. Note that visa conditions can change; always refer to the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au) or consult a registered migration agent (MARA).
Follow these three steps to apply for the Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) at Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Compare Mercury Colleges with other providers offering similar graduate diplomas in Sydney.
2. **Apply directly to Mercury Colleges** – Submit your application, including academic transcripts, English test results, and any required documents. Check entry requirements and application deadlines on their website (www.mercurycolleges.nsw.edu.au).
3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student Visa** – If accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) online via the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prepare for your GTE interview.
Sydney is a top destination for international students, offering world-class education, diverse culture, and strong job markets. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers, the city caters to every study level and field. However, the high cost of living and competitive housing market are important considerations. Weekly rent for a shared room near the city centre can range from A$350 to A$600, and public transport passes cost around A$200 per month for unlimited travel. If you prefer a more affordable city, consider Melbourne, Brisbane, or Adelaide. For Education-focused courses like this, Sydney's large corporate and vocational training sectors provide ample networking and potential employment opportunities. Visit the campuses at Castlereagh Street to experience the central location — close to museums, libraries, and industry events.
Ready to start your journey? Explore other graduate diploma courses in Education on HeadStart Academy or contact Mercury Colleges directly for application details.
Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Mercury Colleges Pty. Limited. 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.