Diploma of Hospitality Management

The Diploma of Hospitality Management at the Australian Institute of Language and Further Education is a one-year qualification that prepares you for supervisory and operational roles in hotels, restaurants, cafes, function centres and clubs. You'll study the day-to-day realities of running a hospitality business: rostering, budgeting, stock control, food safety, responsible service of alcohol, customer service, and leading a team through a busy service. Assessment is practical as well as written, so you'll spend time in training kitchens, simulated service environments and on placement in venues that trade seven days a week.

How the course is structured

Australian diplomas are built from units of competency, each carrying credit points. A full-time load is usually four units per semester, with two semesters across the year. The course is delivered face-to-face, and your timetable will mix classroom sessions, kitchen and service practicals, and supervised shifts. To finish, you complete all required units, including a work placement component where you apply your skills in a real hospitality workplace under supervision. The exact unit list and placement hours are set out on the official course page, check there before you enrol.

Skills you'll gain

By the end, you should be able to write a roster that meets wage budgets, handle a customer complaint without escalating it, manage stock rotation and wastage, and brief a team before service. You'll also cover compliance: food safety programs, liquor licensing rules, workplace health and safety, and the legal responsibilities that come with serving alcohol. These are the skills employers ask for when they promote someone from the floor to a supervisor role.

Who it suits

This diploma suits people already working in hospitality who want formal recognition and a path into management, and international students who want an Australian qualification they can use here or back home. If you're considering further study, a diploma can provide credit towards a bachelor degree in hospitality or business management at some institutions, confirm the credit arrangements with the receiving university. English entry is typically IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall or an accepted equivalent, and the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English requirement for the Student visa. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. After you finish, the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream may be available if you meet the requirements. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register, check the official page for current fees and intake dates.

• Duty manager or shift supervisor, hotels, resorts, pubs and clubs across Australia.
• Food and beverage supervisor, restaurants, cafes, function centres and catering companies.
• Front office supervisor, accommodation providers, from motels to international hotel groups.
• Banquet or events coordinator, conference venues, wineries and event hire businesses.
• Restaurant manager, independent dining rooms and group-operated venues.
• Housekeeping supervisor, hotels and serviced apartment operators.

These roles exist in every state and territory, and hospitality is one of the largest employers in Australia. Many graduates move into area management, venue ownership or further study in business or hospitality management.