Diploma courses in Australia: The best, the easiest and the cheapest

If you have been considering pursuing diploma courses in Australia, now is the time to seize that opportunity. 

Australia has established itself as one of the most sought-after study-abroad destinations in the world. Sure, there are tropical beaches, lush rainforests and cute koalas.

But these are not all it’s known for. The Land Down Under ranks among the top 10 countries for international students. 

Australia is home to over 43 universities, of which 36 were ranked in the QS World University Rankings for 2021.

Thanks to its top-ranked institutions and (reasonably) affordable tuition and cost of living, it is no surprise that every year the country attracts thousands of students from all over the world.

Why pursue a diploma course in Australia?

There are many reasons to pursue a diploma course in Australia. The main reason would be that the country offers a wide range of courses for international students to choose from.

Whether you have a passion for medicine or design, Australia most probably offers a diploma course in it.

The best part, however, is how widely recognised a diploma course in Australia is.

Many employers seek candidates with these qualifications — some even for roles that pay up to 66,000 Australian dollars annually.

Part of this could be due to the career focus of a diploma course in Australia. Many include practical learning opportunities, such as internships and placements.

These let students use the theories they have learnt. The diploma of nursing course at RMIT University incorporates a clinical placement where students can reinforce the theory and skills learned in class.

Here are the best diploma courses in Australia:

You can find a diploma course in Australia spanning various fields and disciplines. No matter where your passion lies, you’ll likely find one that best fits your needs and passions.

While the breadth of offerings is amazing, some are better than the rest.

“Good” is subjective — but if we’re going by how well-liked they are with students and graduates, below the three most popular diploma courses in Australia at the moment. 

1. Diploma in Network Engineering 

Network Engineering is one of the hottest tech areas in Australia’s current job market.

A diploma in this field covers the basic knowledge and skills to prepare you for an entry-level job in this field.

You will be familiarised with the foundational knowledge of system designing, including information systems and their usage. 

Some of the top universities offering a diploma course in network engineering include: 

• Diploma of Information Technology at Victoria University
• Diploma in Computing and IT at Holmesglen Institute
• Diploma of Network Engineering at Charles Darwin University

2. Diploma in Dental Technology

If you seek a career in healthcare and are caring, empathetic and have good communication skills, consider getting a certification in dental technology.

You’ll learn how to construct models and custom impression trays, build removable acrylic dentures and alloy frames, and make crown and bridge structures.

It’ll prepare you to work as dental hygienists, technicians and therapists — roles with stable future job growth according to the Australian Government’s Job Outlook service.

The following institutions offer a Diploma in Dental Technology:

• Diploma in Dental Technology at TAFE Queensland
• Diploma in Dental Technology at TAFE SA
• Diploma in Dental Technology at RMIT University

3. Diploma in Nursing 

Nursing is one of the most popular options for students as once completed, you can immediately begin applying your skills in the field.  

According to the Health Workforce Australia (HWA), it is predicted that the country will face a shortage of over 100,000 nurses by 2025 and more than 123,000 nurses by 2030.

As a result, nurses are in high demand in Australia, and now is a great time to pursue a diploma in nursing. 

With this diploma, there are plenty of opportunities to advance in the medical field. You can work in several areas, including emergency, aged care, mental health, pediatric care and general practice.

If you are looking for the best universities in Australia to pursue a diploma in nursing, check out these courses:

• Diploma of Nursing at RMIT University 
• Diploma of Nursing at the University of Wollongong

Here are the easiest diploma courses in Australia:

As much as we wish it were true, there is no easy course. However, some courses may be simpler and do not require memorising large chunks of information.

If you are looking for the quickest and least stressful way to earn a qualification, you might want to consider these courses: 

1. Diploma of Business Studies

Through this course, you will learn about marketing, finance and accounting. Many choose this course at it involves hands-on work.

Part of the reason why students consider this subject easy is that it’s highly relatable.

Unless physics or law, with abstract theories, concepts like marketing and finance are concepts that students have experience dealing with.

There will be some maths involved, but not a big portion.

Check out these universities in Australia for a diploma of business studies:

• Diploma of Business at Monash College 
• Diploma of Business at Victoria University 
• Diploma of Business at Torrens University 

2. Diploma in Early Childhood Education

Many consider a diploma in early childhood education an easier academic route as it involves more hands-on learning. 

However, while you don’t have to remember each element on the periodic table, you will have to deal with children — and all their quirks — all day. 

If you are ready to take on that responsibility, here are some universities in Australia that offer a diploma in early childhood education:

• Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Swinburne University of Technology 
• Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Victoria University 
• Graduate Diploma in Early Education at RMIT University

Here are the cheapest diploma courses in Australia: 

Diplomas are a quicker and more affordable pathway that prepares you for your chosen career. 

As they are shorter, you’ll save up to two years of tuition fees and other living costs, such as rent, transport, food, and more.

The cost of a diploma course in Australia depends on the chosen field of study but the average cost is around A$4,000 to A$ 8,000 annually. 

Below are some of the cheapest in Australia:

1. Diploma of Leadership and Management 

At A$8,004 a year, the Diploma of Leadership and Management offered by the Swinburne University of Technology is one of the cheapest courses available in Australia. 

A diploma in this field is also popular as the subjects taught are versatile and applicable in many industries, paving the way for many job opportunities.

At Swinburne, this diploma is delivered uniquely through workshop clusters that can be completed in any order by the students. 

By the end of the course, you will develop the skills to lead and manage teams, understand and provide customer solutions and design and implement improvement processes. 

Finding a job after completion should not be a problem as many opportunities are available. Some of the popular career routes include:

• Information System Manager
• Account Management Executive
• Account Manager
• Management Consultant

2. Diploma of Information Technology 

The Diploma of Information Technology offered by Kingston Institue Australia takes place over six terms and is priced at A$2,500 per term. 

With the skills gained from this course, graduates can apply them in many industries and departments. 

Students will become experts in configuring and managing virtual computing environments and protecting sensitive data and information through security architecture, and developing disaster recovery and contingency plans.

The common job scope for those that complete a diploma in information technology is:

• Computer Programmer
• Computer System Analyst 
• Information Architect 
• Web Developer

Frequently asked questions about diploma courses in Australia: 

1. Are diplomas in Australia worth it?

The simple answer is, “Yes, a diploma in Australia is worth it.” 

Completing a diploma in Australia can open the doors to many opportunities. It equips you with the knowledge and skills and how to apply them. 

Once you graduate with a diploma, you can either pursue higher studies by progressing to a bachelor’s degree or apply for a job to begin working. 

2. What is the requirement for a diploma in Australia?

Most courses have the following requirements: 

• Applicants must be at least 16 years old when applying 
• Proof of English proficiency by completing the PTE, IELTS, or TOEFL examinations
• A high school diploma or equivalent
• Proof of funds
• Academic transcripts 

3. How many years is a diploma in Australia?

A diploma course can be completed in a shorter time compared to degree programmes. In Australia, a diploma programme will typically take around one to two years to be completed.

The diplomas offered cover various fields and aim to prepare students with the foundational knowledge and basic skills required to pursue a professional career. 

4. Can I get PR after my diploma in Australia?

It is possible to gain permanent residency in Australia after you complete your diploma programme. However, the process can be quite tricky. 

In Australia, a PR is granted based on a points-based system, so you will be eligible if you have the required points. 

International students who have completed a course that leads to an occupation which is listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) can apply for a Graduate Visa or Permanent Visa after completion. 

5. Can I work while completing a diploma course in Australia as an international student?

The good news is that all international students are able to work as they complete their studies. 

The Australian student visa mostly permits all international students to work part-time for up to 40 hours every two weeks during their semester. 

The work hour cap does not apply during semester breaks or holidays. During those times, international students can work unlimited hours.