Associate Degree of Information Technology (Cyber Defence and Networking) (CRICOS course code 120252D) is a Associate Degree delivered by UNSW Global Pty Limited over 2 years. This CRICOS-registered program equips international students with foundational skills in cyber security and networking, preparing them for either further study or entry-level roles. At HeadStart Academy, we source all data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this one is offered at UNSW College Kensington in Sydney. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. Explore the details below to see if this course aligns with your goals.
This Associate Degree in Information Technology specialising in Cyber Defence and Networking is a two-year, full-time program registered on CRICOS under code 120252D. It is delivered by UNSW Global Pty Limited (CRICOS 01020K), a private provider affiliated with the University of New South Wales. The course sits at AQF Level 6 and falls under the field of Security Science (029901). It is designed to give you practical and theoretical knowledge in areas like network security, cyber defence strategies, and IT infrastructure. The program includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks (20 hours per week), giving you hands-on industry experience. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, you can study with confidence knowing the institution meets Australian Government standards.
As an Associate Degree in Cyber Defence and Networking, the curriculum covers core IT concepts with a focus on security. You will typically learn about network architectures, cyber threat analysis, ethical hacking, and data protection. The course bridges theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing you for careers in IT security or further study in a bachelor's program. While specific units may vary, the field of Security Science ensures you understand vulnerability assessment, risk management, and incident response. Graduates often pursue roles such as network administrator, security analyst, or systems support specialist. This course is a solid foundation for those aiming to enter Australia's growing cyber security sector.
The course runs for 2 years (104 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual qualifications). The mode of study is typically full-time face-to-face at the Kensington campus. You should expect a combination of lectures, tutorials, and practical lab sessions. The duration is fixed for international students under student visa conditions. If you need to extend due to academic progress, you may need to consult your provider and possibly apply for a new visa. Always confirm current study modes with UNSW Global, as some components may be offered online or in blended formats.
The indicative tuition fee for the full course is A$68,160, with no non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$68,160. These figures are sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For example, OSHC for a single student is approximately A$500–700 per year, and living costs in Sydney (where the campus is located) can range from A$400–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always verify current fees with UNSW Global Pty Limited at their website (www.unswcollege.edu.au) before applying.
Entry requirements for this Associate Degree vary by provider. Generally, for an AQF Level 6 course, you need to have completed Year 12 or equivalent with satisfactory grades in relevant subjects. English language proficiency is also required — typically an IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0 overall (or equivalent) depending on the course level. UNSW Global may require a minimum IELTS of 6.0 or 6.5 for this program. You may also need to meet specific subject prerequisites, such as mathematics or IT. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements. Check with UNSW Global for details. For visa purposes, you must also demonstrate financial capacity and genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status.
This course includes a compulsory work component of 8 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 160 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) could be an industry placement, internship, or project-based work experience. It is designed to give you real-world exposure to cyber defence and networking environments, enhancing your employability. The work hours are structured within the course duration, and you will be supported by UNSW Global in finding a suitable placement. Remember that on a student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, so this placement will count towards your allowance. The work component is an excellent opportunity to apply your learning and build a professional network.
This course is delivered at UNSW College (Kensington) in Kensington, New South Wales. Kensington is a suburb of Sydney, approximately 6 km south-east of the city centre. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to a vibrant international student community and over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering IT courses. The campus is well-served by public transport, including buses and light rail, making it accessible from many suburbs. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, with indicative weekly rent for a share house around A$250–$400, groceries A$80–$150, and transport A$40–$60. The city offers a dynamic tech scene, with many opportunities for internships and networking in cyber security.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, plus a buffer period. Work rights permit up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement means you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel must be shown. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.
Kensington is an ideal location for international students, offering proximity to Sydney's tech hub and a multicultural environment. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, NSW has the highest number of institutions, including many in Sydney. The UNSW College campus is part of the larger UNSW Sydney, ranked among the world's top universities. This means access to world-class libraries, labs, and student support services. The area has a high density of student accommodation, cafes, and public transport. Living in Kensington allows you to immerse yourself in Australian university life while being close to the city's career opportunities in IT and cyber security. The work component of this course can often be completed with local firms, further enhancing your experience.
Applying for this course at UNSW Global Pty Limited involves three steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers like UNSW Global by filtering on course level, field (Cyber Defence), and city (Sydney). 2) Apply directly to UNSW Global – meet entry requirements, take an English test (e.g., IELTS), and submit your application by the deadline. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to budget for OSHC and living costs. For step-by-step assistance, refer to the provider's website or contact their international admissions team.
Ready to take the next step? Visit the UNSW Global website for the most up-to-date information and application deadlines.
Associate Degree of Information Technology (Cyber Defence and Networking) is a CRICOS-registered programme at UNSW Global 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.