Diploma of Electronics and Communications Engineering (CRICOS course code 119537A) is a Diploma delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for international students seeking hands-on skills in electrical and electronic engineering technology. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00020G), it ensures ESOS Act protections and compliance with Australian education standards. Delivered at South Metropolitan TAFE, Thornlie Campus in Thornlie, WA, this program prepares graduates for technician roles in telecommunications, power systems, and electronics. With indicative tuition of A$24,324 and additional costs, it offers a pathway to further study or employment in Australia's growing engineering sector.
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The Diploma of Electronics and Communications Engineering (CRICOS 119537A) is a vocational qualification at AQF Level 5, offered by the Department of Training and Workforce Development – a government provider with CRICOS code 00020G. This course falls under the field of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Technology (031300), providing foundational and applied knowledge in circuit design, digital systems, and communication networks. Over 1 year and 6 months (78 weeks), students gain practical skills through campus-based learning at South Metropolitan TAFE in Thornlie, WA. The course is delivered in English with no mandatory work component, making it ideal for students focused on academic progression. Graduates may articulate into bachelor programs or enter the workforce as electronics technicians. As with all CRICOS courses, this program is subject to ESOS protections, ensuring quality education and student rights.
Students in this Diploma explore core concepts in electrical and electronic engineering, including analogue and digital electronics, communications systems, microcontrollers, and industrial networking. The curriculum aligns with the national training package UEE50520, covering units such as fault-finding, project management, and workplace safety. While specific subjects are set by the provider, typical learning outcomes include designing basic electronic circuits, installing and maintaining communication equipment, and interpreting technical diagrams. This field of education (031300) is broad, so graduates gain transferable skills applicable to telecommunications, renewable energy, and automation. The program emphasises practical laboratories and theory, preparing students for real-world engineering challenges in Australia and globally.
The Diploma of Electronics and Communications Engineering runs for 1 year and 6 months (~78 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. This is a full-time, on-campus program delivered in English at South Metropolitan TAFE, Thornlie Campus. It is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation course), with the VET national code UEE50520. Students should expect a structured timetable with approximately 20 contact hours per week, plus independent study. The 78-week duration includes scheduled breaks, and the course is designed for international students holding a Student visa (Subclass 500). No work component is built into the program, but students may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays, subject to visa conditions.
Tuition fees for this Diploma are indicative at A$24,324, with non-tuition fees of A$772, giving an estimated total of A$25,096. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees with the provider. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600–$1,200 per year depending on coverage; living expenses – Australia's cost of living varies by city, with Perth (near Thornlie) averaging weekly rent of A$250–$400 for shared accommodation, groceries A$80–$120, and public transport A$40–$60; visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). For precise fee details, visit the provider's website: http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/.
Applicants typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) plus completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. For this Diploma level, prior study in mathematics and physics is recommended but not always mandatory. The provider may also consider relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options are available through TAFE International WA – contact the institution for details. Note that meeting the minimum English requirement does not guarantee admission; each application is assessed individually. For visa purposes, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion applies. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students are not required to undertake industry placement or internships as part of the curriculum. However, the Student visa (Subclass 500) allows work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. This provides flexibility to gain part-time work experience while studying. Always check visa conditions as they may change.
This Diploma is delivered at South Metropolitan TAFE, Thornlie Campus, located in Thornlie, Western Australia (WA). Thornlie is a suburb of Perth, approximately 15 km southeast of the city centre. Perth has over 10 CRICOS-registered providers offering hundreds of courses. The campus is accessible by public transport, with Thornlie train station nearby. Perth's cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney or Melbourne; indicative weekly rent for a shared house is A$200–$350. The city is known for its sunny climate, strong mining and resources sector, and growing technology industry. Studying in Thornlie gives students a suburban campus environment with ties to Perth's engineering employers.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this Diploma. The visa allows work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Conditions include maintaining OSHC, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, etc.), and meeting GTE requirements. The course's CRICOS registration ensures it qualifies for visa purposes. For visa applications, you will need your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the provider. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the Department of Home Affairs or a MARA-registered migration agent for specific advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Electronics and Communications Engineering at Department of Training and Workforce Development: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and institutions. Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Engineering), and location (WA). Verify CRICOS registration of your chosen provider. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application through TAFE International WA's website: http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/. Provide academic transcripts, English test results, and passport copy. 3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa**: Once accepted, you'll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement.
Western Australia offers a unique study environment with a strong economy driven by mining, oil and gas, and technology. Perth, the state capital, has a vibrant international student community with over 50,000 students from around the world. The cost of living is lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it attractive for budget-conscious students. The state has several universities and TAFEs, including Department of Training and Workforce Development, providing pathways to employment. However, consider factors like climate (hot summers, mild winters), distance from other Australian cities, and available part-time work opportunities. For engineering students, WA's resource sector offers potential internships and jobs after graduation. HeadStart Academy's data shows over 200 courses in engineering and related technologies in WA, giving you ample choice.
Start your journey by researching CRICOS-registered providers like Department of Training and Workforce Development. Use HeadStart Academy to explore course options and apply today.
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Diploma of Electronics and Communications Engineering is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Training and Workforce Development. 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.