Diploma of Hospitality Management

The Diploma of Hospitality Management is a two-year qualification that prepares you for supervisory and operational roles in hotels, restaurants, clubs, catering companies and event venues. You learn how to run a shift, manage a team, control stock and costs, and keep customers happy. The course covers food and beverage service, housekeeping, front office, food safety, rostering, budgeting and marketing. You also study how to comply with Australian liquor, gaming and workplace health and safety laws, which matters if you want to work in licensed venues.

How the course is structured

Australian diplomas are made up of units of study, each with a set number of credit points. A full-time load is usually eight units a year, split across two semesters or three trimesters. The Diploma of Hospitality Management is delivered over two years, so you can expect a mix of core units and electives. Assessment is practical: you might run a simulated service, complete a cost-control project or present a marketing plan. Many providers include a work placement or industry internship, which gives you real hours in a commercial kitchen, restaurant or hotel. Check the official page for the exact unit list and placement requirements.

Skills you gain

You finish with the ability to lead a hospitality team, manage rosters and budgets, handle customer complaints, and implement food safety plans. You also learn to use point-of-sale and property management systems, which are standard in Australian venues. The course builds communication and problem-solving skills, because you deal with staff, suppliers and guests from many backgrounds. If you already work in hospitality, the diploma can formalise your experience and open up supervisor or duty manager roles.

Who it suits

This diploma suits people who want a hands-on career in hospitality and prefer practical learning over a purely academic degree. It is also a good fit if you are already working in the industry and want a recognised qualification to move into management. International students should note that the Student visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. After you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. Confirm the current rules with the Department of Home Affairs.

• Hospitality supervisor or team leader
• Duty manager in a hotel, motel or resort
• Food and beverage manager
• Restaurant or café manager
• Front office supervisor
• Housekeeping supervisor
• Event or function coordinator
• Catering manager
• Bar or gaming supervisor (with relevant state licences)

These roles are found across Australia in hotels, resorts, restaurants, clubs, pubs, catering companies, event venues and aged-care or hospital food services. The diploma also gives you credit towards further study, such as a bachelor degree in hospitality or business, if you want to move into senior management or ownership.