There are 641 Diploma courses offered by 154 CRICOS-registered providers across Queensland. Whether you're seeking a pathway to university, a career change, or specialised skills, a Diploma (AQF Level 5) provides a practical, industry-focused qualification. Queensland's vibrant cities like Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Cairns offer excellent study environments, with many providers located near public transport and student hubs. Tuition ranges from A$2,750 to A$180,000, with durations from 12 weeks to over 6 years. All institutions listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections. Use this page to explore providers, fields of study, and visa requirements for your Diploma journey in Queensland.
Counted from the official register for QLD: 939 non-expired CRICOS courses across 218 providers.
Most common course levels
Planning baseline from the CRICOS register [CRICOS register, Apr 2026]. Confirm fees, intakes and visa settings with the provider and government sources before applying.
Ranked by active CRICOS course coverage for Diploma in Queensland on the April 2026 register snapshot. Recalculated this build (2026-10-06). Use this as a shortlist, then confirm current fees and intakes with each provider.
Commercial disclosure: Payment does not affect this ranking or inclusion. Ordering is coverage-based from the CRICOS register — not an endorsement or quality score. How we rank · Is this legit?
The University of Queensland is a government CRICOS provider with 377 active courses matched to Diploma in Queensland. Indicative course totals on register from A$3,420 to A$447,525. Common levels include Bachelor Degree, Masters Degree (Coursework), Graduate Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00025B, Government, 377 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Griffith University is a government CRICOS provider with 293 active courses matched to Diploma in Queensland. Indicative course totals on register from A$18,447 to A$342,017. Common levels include Bachelor Degree, Masters Degree (Coursework), Masters Degree (Research).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00233E, Government, 293 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Queensland University of Technology (QUT)
Queensland University of Technology (QUT) is a government CRICOS provider with 288 active courses matched to Diploma in Queensland. Indicative course totals on register from A$900 to A$304,700. Common levels include Masters Degree (Research), Bachelor Degree, Doctoral Degree.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00213J, Government, 288 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Bond University is a private CRICOS provider with 179 active courses matched to Diploma in Queensland. Indicative course totals on register from A$248.6 to A$301,972. Common levels include Masters Degree (Coursework), Graduate Certificate, Bachelor Degree.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00017B, Private, 179 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
University of the Sunshine Coast
University of the Sunshine Coast is a government CRICOS provider with 145 active courses matched to Diploma in Queensland. Indicative course totals on register from A$1 to A$167,500. Common levels include Masters Degree (Research), Diploma, Bachelor Honours Degree.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 01595D, Government, 145 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Torrens University Australia Limited
Torrens University Australia Limited is a private CRICOS provider with 126 active courses matched to Diploma in Queensland. Indicative course totals on register from A$500 to A$129,000. Common levels include Bachelor Degree, Diploma, Masters Degree (Coursework).
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 03389E, Private, 126 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
James Cook University is a government CRICOS provider with 121 active courses matched to Diploma in Queensland. Indicative course totals on register from A$1 to A$473,482.483. Common levels include Diploma, Masters Degree (Research), Bachelor Degree.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00117J, Government, 121 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Southern Cross University (SCU)
Southern Cross University (SCU) is a government CRICOS provider with 119 active courses matched to Diploma in Queensland. Indicative course totals on register from A$13,880 to A$144,000. Common levels include Diploma, Masters Degree (Coursework), Graduate Diploma.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 01241G, Government, 119 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Australian Catholic University Limited
Australian Catholic University Limited is a government CRICOS provider with 116 active courses matched to Diploma in Queensland. Indicative course totals on register from A$10,640 to A$210,176. Common levels include Bachelor Degree, Diploma, Bachelor Honours Degree.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00004G, Government, 116 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Central Queensland University is a government CRICOS provider with 105 active courses matched to Diploma in Queensland. Indicative course totals on register from A$1 to A$218,771. Common levels include Bachelor Degree, Diploma, Non AQF Award.
How this listing is sourced: Official CRICOS register (Apr 2026) — provider code 00219C, Government, 105 non-expired course listings for this page filter.
Similar to a register-first directory: every claim you can act on should be checkable against an official source. Full ranking rules: methodology.
Maintained by HeadStart Academy editorial · Snapshot recalculated this build (2026-10-06).
A Diploma is an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 5 qualification, typically requiring completion of Year 12 or equivalent. It provides foundational knowledge and skills for paraprofessional work or further study at bachelor's level. Diplomas often serve as a pathway to university, with many providers offering credit transfer arrangements. Entry requirements vary, but international students generally need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Diploma courses can lead to roles in management, health, IT, engineering, and more. They are shorter and more practical than degrees, making them popular for students seeking quick entry into the workforce or a stepping stone to higher education.
Tuition fees for Diploma courses in Queensland range from A$2,750 to A$180,000, depending on the provider, field of study, and course structure. Duration varies from 12 weeks to approximately 6 years 4 months (328 weeks). These ranges are indicative and set by individual institutions — always confirm with the provider. Note that tuition does not include non-tuition fees (e.g., enrolment, materials), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), or living costs. Living expenses in Queensland cities average A$350–$600 per week for rent, food, and transport. The table below breaks down approximate tuition and duration by field of education. All figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and subject to change.
The following CRICOS-registered providers offer the highest number of Diploma courses in Queensland (based on CRICOS data as at April 2026):
Diploma courses in Queensland span 12 broad fields of education, giving you diverse options to match your interests and career goals. The most popular field is 08 - Management and Commerce, covering business administration, accounting, marketing, and project management. 09 - Society and Culture includes social work, counselling, and legal studies. 06 - Health offers diplomas in nursing, aged care, and public health. 04 - Architecture and Building provides construction, building design, and surveying pathways. 10 - Creative Arts covers graphic design, music, and visual arts. 02 - Information Technology includes programming, networking, and cybersecurity. 03 - Engineering and Related Technologies offers civil, mechanical, and electrical diplomas. 05 - Agriculture, Environmental and Related Studies includes horticulture and environmental management. 12 - Mixed Field Programmes often combine skills like business with IT. 01 - Natural and Physical Sciences covers laboratory techniques. 07 - Education provides early childhood and teacher aide diplomas. 11 - Food, Hospitality and Personal Services includes culinary arts, tourism, and hairdressing. Each field has multiple courses tailored to industry needs.
International students applying for a Diploma in Queensland typically need an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent like TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic). Some providers may require a higher score for specific fields (e.g., health or education). English language preparation courses are often available at the same institution if you need to meet entry requirements. Always check the specific entry requirements on the provider's CRICOS-registered course page.
To study a Diploma in Queensland on a full-time basis, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include:
Once you apply and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your provider, you can lodge your visa application. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of your stay. For detailed visa guidance, refer to our [Student Visa Subclass 500 guide](/visa/student-visa-subclass-500). All Diploma courses listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian education and visa regulations.
Queensland is home to over 154 CRICOS-registered providers, including government TAFEs, private colleges, and universities. Major study destinations include Brisbane (over 100 providers), Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Cairns, and Townsville. Living costs are generally lower than Sydney and Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$250–$400. Public transport is accessible via buses, trains, and trams, with student discounts available. Queensland's subtropical climate and outdoor lifestyle make it an attractive place to study. The state also offers strong employment opportunities in tourism, health, mining, and education. Before choosing a course, consider factors like campus location, industry partnerships, and pathway options to bachelor's degrees.
Follow these three steps to start your Diploma journey in Queensland:
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use the CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to find providers offering Diploma courses in your field of interest. Filter by location (e.g., Brisbane, Gold Coast) and compare course details.
Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution — Prepare required documents (transcripts, English test scores, passport) and submit your application. Meet entry requirements and deadlines. Some providers offer conditional offers if you need to meet English or academic conditions.
Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once accepted, your provider issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. For visa help, see our [Student Visa guide](/visa/student-visa-subclass-500).
Remember, HeadStart Academy is a free resource — we do not charge referral fees or commissions. Always consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised visa advice.
Ready to find your Diploma in Queensland? Browse providers and courses now — all CRICOS-registered. Start your journey today.
Showing 80 diploma courses from 16 CRICOS providers in Queensland.