Graduate Diploma in Human Services (CRICOS course code 120020J) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Polytechnic Institute Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 8 qualification falls under the field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (090501 Social Work). It provides foundational knowledge for those seeking to work in human services, community welfare, or related fields in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 03535M), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. The program is taught entirely in English and offers flexibility with four delivery locations across New South Wales and Victoria. Indicative tuition is A$30,000 with non-tuition fees of A$1,700, totalling A$31,700. Entry typically requires IELTS 5.5-6.0 and prior qualifications at bachelor level or equivalent. There is no mandatory work component. Graduates may be eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that provides accurate, up-to-date information from the CRICOS register to help you make informed decisions. All data is sourced as at April 2026.
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The Graduate Diploma in Human Services is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of human welfare, social work principles, and community support practices. The curriculum typically covers topics such as case management, social policy, counselling skills, ethics in human services, and working with diverse populations. Students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for roles in government agencies, non-profit organisations, and community health settings. Graduates are prepared for further study or direct entry into the workforce in areas like child protection, aged care, disability services, and mental health support. Note that this is a general description based on the field of education classification — specific subjects may vary by institution. For exact syllabus details, contact Polytechnic Institute Australia Pty Ltd directly.
The course is registered on CRICOS for 1 year (52 weeks) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — not a dual award or foundation program. There is no VET national code as it is a higher education course. Study modes are typically on-campus at one of the four delivery locations. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa conditions. The course structure may include lectures, tutorials, workshops, and self-directed study. Contact the provider for information on class schedules and whether any online components are available.
The indicative tuition fee for this Graduate Diploma is A$30,000 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as application, enrolment, and materials) are approximately A$1,700, bringing the estimated total to A$31,700. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Polytechnic Institute Australia Pty Ltd. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are additional. Living costs in Australia vary by city: for example, Sydney may require A$500–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, while Geelong or West Melbourne may be slightly lower. Always verify current fees with the provider before applying. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees — we aim to provide transparent cost information.
International applicants typically need an overall IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent in other accepted English language tests). For this Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8), you are generally expected to have completed a bachelor degree (AQF Level 7) in a related field or have significant professional experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available for those who do not meet the direct entry requirements — consult Polytechnic Institute Australia for details. All applicants must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their Student visa. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website (http://www.pia.edu.au/) for the most current entry requirements.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. There is no placement, internship, or work experience required for completion. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain part-time work experience while studying. Always ensure your work hours comply with your visa conditions.
The Graduate Diploma in Human Services is delivered at four campuses: 1) 107 George Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 — in the heart of Parramatta, a major business district in Western Sydney with a large student population and excellent public transport (train, bus, light rail). 2) Level 1, 363 King Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003 — close to the CBD and Melbourne's education hub, with tram and train access. 3) Level 1 West, 237 Ryrie Street, Geelong VIC 3220 — in Geelong's city centre, a regional city with lower living costs than Melbourne. 4) Level 16, 233 Castlereagh Street, Sydney NSW — in Sydney's CBD, surrounded by universities and student services. Each location offers a unique study environment; consider your preference for city size, cost of living, and lifestyle when choosing.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), sufficient OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependants may also have work rights depending on the visa subclass. All international students in Australia are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000, which ensures quality education and consumer rights. For detailed visa information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Australia is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. For human services, the country has a strong demand for qualified professionals, particularly in community welfare, aged care, and disability support. Studying in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Geelong offers exposure to diverse populations and practical training opportunities. However, consider factors such as climate, cost of living (Sydney and Melbourne are more expensive than Geelong), and proximity to family. International students often find part-time work in retail, hospitality, or community services. Ensure you research provider reputation, support services, and graduate outcomes before applying. HeadStart Academy's resources can help you compare courses and locations.
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Graduate Diploma in Human Services is a CRICOS-registered programme at Polytechnic Institute Australia 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.