Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management

The Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management is a two-year qualification at Sydney Metro College. It sits at the diploma level of the Australian Qualifications Framework, which means it's a practical, job-focused course rather than a research degree. You'll learn how to run hospitality operations: managing staff, rosters and budgets, planning menus and events, controlling stock, and keeping customers happy. The course is delivered on campus in Sydney, with units that build from front-of-house and food and beverage service through to human resources, marketing, and financial management. Assessment is mostly practical, running real or simulated service periods, writing operational plans, and completing projects that mirror what you'd do in a hotel, restaurant or events venue.

How the course is structured

Australian diplomas are made up of units of study, each with a set number of credit points. You'll typically study full-time over four semesters (two years), with breaks between. Some providers offer a trimester model, so confirm the exact teaching calendar with Sydney Metro College. The units cover core management areas plus electives that let you specialise, for example, in accommodation, food and beverage, or event management. Many hospitality diplomas include a work placement or industry project in the final semester, where you apply your skills in a real venue. Sydney Metro College can tell you whether placement is part of this course and how it's arranged.

What you'll actually learn

You'll come out able to write a business plan for a café, manage a team through a busy service, handle complaints without losing your cool, and read a profit and loss statement. You'll also learn about legal compliance, responsible service of alcohol, food safety, workplace health and safety, which are non-negotiables in Australian hospitality. The course is hands-on, so expect to spend time in training kitchens, bars or simulated service areas as well as classrooms. If you're already working in the industry, some providers offer credit for relevant experience or prior study; ask about recognition of prior learning (RPL).

Who it suits

This qualification suits people who want to move into supervisory or management roles in hotels, restaurants, clubs, catering companies or event venues. It's also a good fit if you're changing careers and want a practical entry point, or if you're an international student looking to study in Australia and gain work experience. While you study, your student visa lets you work up to 48 hours per fortnight during teaching periods. After you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which gives you time to work in Australia, check the Department of Home Affairs website for current requirements. English requirements for international applicants are typically IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, but confirm the exact score with Sydney Metro College. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register (course code 111715H). Always check the official page for the most up-to-date details on structure, fees and intake dates.

• Hospitality supervisor or team leader in hotels, resorts and motels
• Restaurant or café manager
• Food and beverage manager
• Event or functions coordinator
• Front office manager
• Banquet or catering supervisor
• Club or pub duty manager
• Small business owner or operator in the hospitality sector

These roles are found across Australia's hospitality industry, in hotels, restaurants, clubs, catering companies, event venues, and tourism operators. The skills also transfer to related areas like retail management, airlines, and aged care catering.