About Diploma programs

Diploma programs are structured pathways for international students who do not meet the direct entry requirements of their preferred Bachelor’s degree at ACU. All Diplomas are developed and delivered by ACU, meaning students learn the same academic concepts as those studying an undergraduate course and are well prepared to progress to further studies in their chosen discipline. 

Diploma students enjoy a high level of support, with small class sizes, tailored support and access to a range of student services to gain the confidence to learn independently and transition smoothly into university study. 

Upon successful completion of a Diploma program, students gain credit for first year entry to a range of undergraduate degrees in their chosen discipline, allowing them to transition straight into second year.

 
     
12 months (full-time) Less than 20 students per class Transition directly to second year

Why study a Diploma?

Fast track into second year

Diploma programs allow you to keep your university plans on track without adding extra time on to your study journey. When you successfully complete a Diploma program, you gain credit for the first year of undergraduate study, meaning you can transition directly into the second year of a related Bachelor's degree.

Develop skills in your chosen discipline

As a Diploma student, you will study course content that mirrors the academic concepts taught in the first year of undergraduate studies. You will develop your industry knowledge and critical skills by participating in workshops and classes, where you'll be encouraged to ask questions, discuss and collaborate with your peers and teachers.

Be supported to succeed

With smaller class sizes and more face-to-face contact, you will receive attention and guidance from teachers who understand your learning needs. You will also complete a dedicated Academic Literacy unit to equip you with the academic, communications and study skills to make your transition to university life easier and ensuring you are ready to succeed academically.

Be part of the university community

Diploma classes are taught on campus (and remotely for select programs) at ACU, allowing you to become familiar with the university environment and access facilities such as library resources, academic support, student welfare and lots of fun activities and events. You’ll be part of a multicultural cohort of peers, allowing you to develop networks and friendships to accompany you throughout your entire university journey.

Be taught by experts

Our commitment to delivering a highly supportive experience begins with the quality of our teaching staff. Our Diplomas are taught by staff that come from a variety of backgrounds and academic disciplines. In fact, many of them are experienced in teaching English to speakers of other languages and have industry experience in their field.

Our Diploma programs

Whether you are interested in Business, Information Technology, Health Sciences, Education or Arts, we offer Diploma Programs to help you achieve your study and career goals.

Diploma in Business

Diploma in Information Technology

Diploma in Biomedical Science

Diploma in Exercise Science

Diploma in Nutrition Science

Diploma in Educational Studies (Tertiary Preparation)

Diploma in Liberal Arts

Diploma in Visual Arts and Design

Diploma in Youth Work

Scholarship opportunities

ACU offers a number of scholarships for international students studying Diploma programs. Browse our scholarship opportunities below:

Pathways to Victoria scholarship

A one-off scholarship of AU$2,500 is available to commencing international students with a packaged Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) to study an eligible Pathway program and principal undergraduate course at ACU.

View scholarship

Pathways to Business and IT Success scholarship

A one-off scholarship is available to commencing international students studying a Diploma in Business or Diploma in Information Technology in 2022. This scholarship will cover 25% of the tuition-fee for a Diploma program.

View scholarship

 

Begin your Diploma in 2024

Get a head start on your education and career goals with a Diploma from Australian Catholic University. Applications are now open!

Enquire now

Want to learn more about studying a Diploma at ACU? We're here to answer your questions.

Make an online enquiry

Apply now

Ready to commence your studies? Here's how to apply as an international student.

How to apply

Have a
question?

Ask International

Online enquiry

For priority response,
make an online enquiry.

Make an online enquiry

Connect with us

Chat to our team via social media.

WhatsApp chat now