Diploma of Information Technology

The Diploma of Information Technology is a one-year qualification at Global Higher Education, registered on CRICOS (course code 119790K). It sits at the diploma level of the Australian Qualifications Framework, below a bachelor degree. You study full time over two semesters, usually eight units of study, each worth a set number of credit points. There's no honours year and no research thesis at this level. If you later move into a bachelor degree, you may receive credit for units you've already passed, which can shorten the degree.

What you actually study

The course covers the foundations of information systems and IT: programming basics, database design and SQL, networking, web development, systems analysis, and how organisations use technology to run their operations. Assessment is a mix of exams, assignments, lab work and group projects. Some diplomas include a capstone unit where you build a small system or solve a real problem for a client. Check the official course page for the exact unit list, because it can change.

Skills you come out with

By the end you can write and debug simple programs, design and query a database, set up and troubleshoot a small network, build a basic website, and document a system so someone else can pick it up. You also get practice working in a team, explaining technical ideas to non-technical people, and managing a project to a deadline. These are the skills employers ask for in entry-level IT support, help desk and junior developer roles.

Who it suits

This diploma suits school leavers who want a practical IT qualification without committing to a three-year degree, career changers who need a formal credential, and students who want a pathway into a bachelor degree with credit. It's also useful if you're already working in a related area and want to formalise your skills. You'll need to meet the English requirement (IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common standard, with TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university's own English programmes accepted as equivalents). As an international student on a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. After you finish, the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream may be available, depending on your circumstances. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register, check there and on the official page for the current figure and start dates.

• IT support officer, help desk and desktop support in banks, hospitals, government departments and managed service providers.
• Junior web developer, building and maintaining websites for agencies, retailers and small businesses.
• Database administrator (entry level), looking after databases in logistics, education and finance organisations.
• Network support technician, keeping networks running in telecommunications, mining and professional services firms.
• Systems analyst (assistant), gathering requirements and documenting processes in large organisations.
• Help desk analyst, first-line troubleshooting for software companies and IT consultancies.

Australian industries that hire diploma graduates include information technology services, banking and finance, healthcare, government, retail, education and mining. Many graduates start in support roles and move into development, networking or project work after a few years, or continue into a bachelor degree with credit.