Diploma of Accounting

The Diploma of Accounting is a one-year qualification for people who want practical accounting skills and a recognised Australian credential. It sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework, below a bachelor degree. You'll study the basics of financial accounting, budgeting, ledgers, reconciliations, and the Australian tax and reporting rules that businesses actually use. Assessment is a mix of tests, assignments and practical tasks, not just exams.

Australian diplomas are usually delivered over two or three study periods (semesters or trimesters) across the year, made up of individual units of study. Each unit carries a set number of credit points, and you need to pass all required units to graduate. There is no research thesis at this level. Some providers build in a work placement or industry project, but you should confirm with Sydney City College of Management whether this diploma includes one and how it is arranged.

You'll come out able to process accounts, prepare financial reports, use accounting software, and understand GST and basic tax obligations. The course suits school leavers who want a fast route into an office job, career changers moving into bookkeeping or accounts, and people already working in small business who need formal recognition of what they do.

If you're an international student, you'll need to meet the English requirement published by the college, commonly IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, with TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the college's own English programmes accepted as equivalents. The Department of Home Affairs also sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa. While studying, a student visa generally allows up to 48 hours of work per fortnight during term. After completing the diploma, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, depending on your circumstances. Tuition is listed on the CRICOS register under course code 110442C; check the official page for current fees and start dates.

• Accounts clerk or accounts officer in small and medium businesses
• Bookkeeper for accounting firms, trades and retail businesses
• Payroll assistant
• Accounts receivable or accounts payable officer
• Assistant accountant in a finance team
• Tax return preparer in a registered tax agent's office