Graduate Diploma of Information Technology (CRICOS course code 119127H) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification is designed for graduates looking to deepen their IT skills or pivot into technology roles. With delivery at four Australian campuses — Gold Coast, Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney — you can choose a study location that suits your lifestyle. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 01241G), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Indicative tuition is A$26,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$2,000. Australia offers over 26,000 courses across 1,500+ CRICOS providers, making it a top study destination. This Graduate Diploma sits in the field of Other Information Technology (029999) and prepares students for advanced study or industry roles. Southern Cross University is a public university recognised for its strong industry connections and student support services. Read on for full details on entry requirements, visa conditions, and how to apply.
Graduate Diploma of Information Technology (CRICOS course code 119127H) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 1 year. This course is registered as AQF Level 8, indicating a postgraduate qualification that builds on prior undergraduate study. The field of education is 029999 - Information Technology, n.e.c., covering a broad range of IT specialisations not elsewhere classified. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 01241G), it allows international students to study in Australia on a Student visa (Subclass 500). Southern Cross University is a government-owned public university with multiple campuses, including regional and metropolitan locations. This course does not include a mandatory work component, but students can work part-time under visa conditions. Indicative tuition is A$26,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, for an estimated total of A$28,000. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges are not included. The course is delivered in English and is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation program.
The Graduate Diploma of Information Technology falls under the broad field of Information Technology (02) and specifically 'Other Information Technology' (0299). While the exact curriculum is set by Southern Cross University, graduates at this level typically develop advanced skills in IT project management, systems analysis, database design, cybersecurity fundamentals, and emerging technologies. The course is designed for non-IT graduates or those with some IT background seeking to formalise their knowledge. Learning outcomes align with industry needs, preparing students for roles such as IT consultant, systems administrator, or business analyst. The course also provides a pathway to further study at Master's level. As a CRICOS-registered course, it ensures quality assurance under the ESOS Act.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, meaning it is not combined with another course or offered as a foundation program. Study mode is likely full-time on campus at one of the four delivery locations. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per Student visa conditions. Southern Cross University typically offers trimesters or semesters, so intakes may be multiple times per year. Always check the provider's website for exact start dates and study load options.
Indicative tuition for the Graduate Diploma of Information Technology is A$26,000 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as enrolment, library, or student amenities) are estimated at A$2,000, bringing the total to approximately A$28,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, food, transport), and the Student visa application charge. For current, binding fee information, always visit the Southern Cross University website at www.scu.edu.au. HeadStart Academy provides indicative figures only and recommends confirming directly with the provider before applying.
As a postgraduate diploma, applicants are typically expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree or equivalent. For international students, English language proficiency is required; the CRICOS register indicates an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall. However, entry standards can vary by campus and intake, so always check specific requirements with Southern Cross University. Some applicants may be admitted based on professional experience or alternative qualifications. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course, but the university may offer bridging programs for those who do not meet direct entry. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no compulsory internship, placement, or work experience embedded in the curriculum. However, Student visa holders (Subclass 500) are eligible to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Always check current visa conditions, as work rights are subject to change by the Department of Home Affairs. For those seeking practical experience, many students choose to undertake voluntary internships or part-time work in IT roles outside of study.
The Graduate Diploma of Information Technology is delivered at four campuses: Gold Coast Airport Development Park - Bilinga (QLD), SCU Perth (WA), The Hotel School Melbourne (VIC), and The Hotel School Sydney (NSW). Each location offers distinct advantages. Gold Coast is a vibrant student city with over 30,000 international students across multiple CRICOS-registered providers; it offers a coastal lifestyle and growing IT sector. Perth boasts a strong resources and technology industry, with affordable rent (average A$300-450/week) and a relaxed atmosphere. Melbourne and Sydney are Australia's largest cities, home to hundreds of thousands of international students, with extensive public transport and diverse job markets. Living costs vary: Sydney is the most expensive (rent A$500-700/week), followed by Melbourne (A$400-600), Gold Coast (A$350-500), and Perth (A$300-450). All campuses are accessible by public transport.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress. As part of the visa application, you need to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, proving your intention to stay temporarily for study. You must also arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs sets financial requirements; currently, you need at least A$21,041 per year for living costs (as of 2026). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent for visa advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Graduate Diploma of Information Technology at Southern Cross University (SCU):
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify that Southern Cross University (CRICOS 01241G) and course 119127H meet your goals.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test scores, academic transcripts) and application deadlines on the SCU website. Submit your application online with all required documents.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, SCU will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for the Student visa with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial capacity requirements.
This course is ideal for those with a bachelor's degree in a non-IT field who want to transition into information technology. The Graduate Diploma level (AQF 8) offers a shorter commitment than a master's while providing advanced skills. Consider your preferred study location: Gold Coast, Perth, Melbourne, or Sydney each offer different lifestyle and job opportunities. Cost of living varies significantly, so budget accordingly. Also, check if the course aligns with your career goals or if a Master's would be more suitable. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers, so compare options. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you research.
Begin your journey — explore Graduate Diploma of Information Technology at Southern Cross University today.
Graduate Diploma of Information Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). 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.