Advanced Diploma of Information Technology

The Advanced Diploma of Information Technology is a practical, hands-on qualification for people who want to work in IT support, networking, systems administration or web development. It sits at the diploma level of the Australian Qualifications Framework, which means it's built around job-ready skills rather than academic theory. You'll spend most of your time in labs and workshops, learning how to set up and maintain networks, troubleshoot hardware and software problems, manage servers, and work with databases. There's also a strong focus on cybersecurity basics, cloud services and supporting users in an organisation.

How the course is structured

Australian diplomas are usually delivered over three or four study periods, semesters or trimesters, across 1.5 years. Each unit of study carries a set number of credit points, and you need to pass all core units plus a selection of electives to graduate. The course is competency-based, meaning you're assessed on what you can actually do, not just what you know. Expect a mix of written assignments, practical tasks, group projects and exams. Many providers build in a work placement or industry project so you get real experience before you finish.

What you'll learn

You'll come out able to install and configure networks, manage Windows and Linux servers, write basic scripts, secure systems against common threats, and provide technical support to users. You'll also pick up the soft skills that matter in IT, documenting procedures, working in a team, and explaining technical issues to non-technical people. The course suits school leavers who want a fast path into the workforce, career changers with an interest in technology, or people already working in IT who need a formal qualification to move up.

English and visa information

International applicants need to show English proficiency. The common standard for courses at this level is IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, or an equivalent TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Cambridge C1 Advanced score. The Department of Home Affairs also sets its own English requirement for the Student visa, which is separate from the course entry requirement. While you're studying on a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight once your course has started. After you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), which lets you stay and work in Australia for a period depending on your qualification.

Academia of Trade Pty Ltd delivers this course under CRICOS code 116037A. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register. Check the official CRICOS page and the provider's website for the most current details on units, fees and intake dates.

• ICT support technician, provide first and second-level help desk support in banks, hospitals, government agencies and large retailers.
• Network administrator, manage and troubleshoot local area networks, routers and switches for small to medium businesses.
• Systems administrator, look after servers, user accounts and backups in organisations that run their own IT infrastructure.
• Web developer, build and maintain websites and basic web applications for digital agencies or in-house teams.
• Cybersecurity support officer, monitor systems for threats, apply security patches and help with incident response.
• Cloud support associate, assist with cloud migration and day-to-day management of cloud services.

These roles are in demand across Australia's IT services, education, healthcare, finance and government sectors. Many graduates start in support roles and move into specialist positions after a few years.