Graduate Diploma in Clean Energy
Postgraduate
UON-CLE-GDI 2026Course information for 2026 intake View information for 2025 course intake
Innovate sustainable energy solutions for today and tomorrow
Build on your professional expertise with advanced knowledge in clean energy technology and management. You’ll gain skills in clean energy systems and optimising resource use. Develop the confidence to lead complex projects within the sector.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Credit available
- Yes
- Duration
- 1 year full time or part time equivalent
- Total subjects
- 8
- Available loans
- Australian Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)
Graduate Diploma in Clean Energy
About this degree
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Analyse and optimise resource utilisation in clean energy systems, utilising advanced techniques and tools to enhance energy efficiency, reduce waste, and maximise the utilisation of renewable energy resources such as geothermal, hydro, ocean, and hybrid systems.
- Evaluate the technical, economic, and environmental feasibility of various clean energy technologies, including geothermal, hydro, ocean, and hybrid systems, and apply engineering principles to design and implement sustainable energy solutions tailored to specific project requirements and objectives.
- Apply project management methodologies and tools to plan, execute, and monitor complex clean energy projects, integrating stakeholder needs, resource constraints, and regulatory requirements to ensure successful project delivery within scope, schedule, and budget constraints.
- Identify, assess, and manage risks inherent in clean energy projects, including technical, financial, regulatory, and market risks, utilising risk management strategies to minimise project vulnerabilities, optimise resource allocation, and enhance project resilience in dynamic operating environments.
- Communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including engineers, policymakers, financiers, and community members, to articulate project objectives, address concerns, and build consensus around clean energy initiatives, fostering collaboration and support for sustainable energy development.
- Demonstrate ethical leadership and decision-making skills in the clean energy sector, considering the social, environmental, and economic impacts of energy projects, and advocating for equitable and sustainable energy solutions that contribute to the global transition to a low-carbon future.
Study the Graduate Diploma in Clean Energy from the University of Newcastle and drive innovation in sustainable energy solutions. Gain advanced knowledge in clean energy technology and management. This program is tailored for professionals looking to deepen their expertise. Gain skills in clean energy systems and optimising resource use. Develop the confidence to lead complex projects within the sector.
Through specialised coursework and hands-on applications, you'll understand resource and energy optimisation strategies. This includes geothermal, hydro, ocean and hybrid systems. Gain essential skills in project and risk management. Learn about the evolving regulatory and policy framework. This program is delivered 100% online, offering flexibility for working professionals.
This program provides a seamless pathway into the Master of Clean Energy at the University of Newcastle. Position yourself at the forefront of clean energy innovation. Join a community of professionals committed to making a sustainable impact on future energy systems.
Award requirements
The Graduate Diploma in Clean Energy consists of 8 Courses (80 units). Students must complete the following to meet the requirements of the program:
- 40 Units of Core courses, AND
- 40 Units from the Directed Course List.
Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.
Indicative first year fee
$37,550
Indicative total fee $37,550
The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.
Fees may vary depending on:
- the subjects you choose
- credit from previous work experience
- your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.
To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.
The University of Newcastle is dedicated to outstanding education and research. Their degrees are shaped around global learning, work placements and entrepreneurial opportunities. The university is known as a champion of innovative approaches, striving for a dynamic teaching culture that delivers world-class outcomes. Welcoming students from diverse backgrounds, they focus on equity and developing the next generation of socially-oriented leaders.
Learn more about Newcastle University.
Explore Newcastle University courses.
- QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 17
- Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:
- 18
How to apply
University of Newcastle manages enquiries and applications for this degree.
Complete your details and we'll make sure your enquiry is sent to University of Newcastle who will contact you to discuss this degree.
Don't worry, we're still here to help you - you'll receive a personalised follow-up from an Open Universities Australia student advisor to make sure you have found the right degree for you.
Entry requirements
Entry into the Graduate Diploma in Clean Energy will be available to applicants who have:
- Been awarded the Graduate Certificate in Clean Energy from the University of Newcastle are eligible to undertake the 40-unit program; or
- A Bachelor (Honours) Degree (AQF level 8) or an equivalent higher qualification; or
- A Bachelor Degree (AQF level 7) or an equivalent qualification, in a related field; or
- A Bachelor Degree (AQF level 7) or an equivalent or higher qualification, not in a related field and 1 year relevant organisational experience; or
- An Advanced Diploma or Associate Degree (AQF Level 6) in a cognate area* plus a minimum of one year relevant experience.
- At least 6 years relevant full time equivalent organisational experience.
*Relevant fields include all disciplines of Engineering, and Environmental, Earth or Physical Sciences.
All Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University’s English proficiency requirement:
- IELTS Overall Minimum: 6.5
- IELTS Sub Test Minimum: 6.
If you wish to apply for credit for studies completed at another institution, or if you are changing programs within the University and wish to transfer your credit to the new program, visit the University's credit website for more information on applying for credit.
Career opportunities
Graduates will be well-placed to enter a fast-growing job market. There is significant demand for both existing and emerging roles within the clean energy sector.
There are opportunities in a range of industries and organisations, including:
- Renewable energy companies
- Environmental consulting firms
- Government agencies and regulatory bodies
- Energy utilities and providers
- Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) focusing on environmental conservation
- Research institutions
- Engineering and construction firms specialising in renewable energy projects
- Technology companies developing clean energy solutions.
Graduates may qualify for the following roles within the industry:
- Energy Efficiency Engineer
- Climate Change Analyst
- Solar Energy Systems Engineer
- Carbon Capture and Storage Specialists
- Battery Recycling Specialists
- Policy Developer in areas of clean energy, renewable energy and clean energy developments.