Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management

The Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management is a one-year qualification for people who want to step into team leader, supervisor or middle management roles. It sits at the diploma/advanced diploma level of the Australian Qualifications Framework, which means it's practical, job-focused and shorter than a degree. You'll usually study eight to twelve units of study, each worth a set number of credit points, across two semesters or trimesters. Assessment is by assignments, case studies, projects and practical tasks rather than long exams.

What you actually study

Core units cover managing team effectiveness, developing and using emotional intelligence, leading and managing organisational change, managing operational plans, and workplace relationships. You'll also look at budgets and financial plans, risk management, and how to develop a business plan or continuous improvement process. Some providers include a capstone unit where you pull everything together into a workplace project. The course is delivered at the Victorian College of Education, with the option of work-integrated learning or placement for students who need to apply their skills in a real workplace.

How it fits into the Australian system

An advanced diploma is one step below a bachelor degree on the AQF. It's common for students to use it as a pathway: you may get credit towards a bachelor degree in business or management, meaning you finish the degree in less time. Australian institutions measure study in units of study and credit points, and you can usually study full-time or part-time. International students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and after graduating you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, depending on your circumstances.

Who it suits

This course suits people already working in a supervisory role who want formal recognition, or those moving from a technical job into management. It also works for international students who want an Australian qualification without committing to a three-year degree. English requirements for international applicants are typically IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, or an equivalent test such as TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic or Cambridge C1 Advanced. Always check the official page and the CRICOS register for the most current details on fees, intake dates and English requirements.

• Team leader or supervisor, retail, hospitality, manufacturing, logistics and community services.
• Office manager or administration manager, small to medium businesses, professional services firms and government agencies.
• Operations coordinator, transport, warehousing, healthcare and education providers.
• Project support officer, construction, IT and event management companies.
• Frontline manager, banking, insurance, call centres and customer service organisations.
• Small business owner or manager, running your own operation or a franchise.